Itchy Legs

[Matterman9]

I am not sure if this is eczema  but every winter I get itchiness on my lower legs that drives me crazy  I have been to several dermatologsits but it will not subside   I have tried every moisturizer and soap there is   olive oil  shea butter too

what is this and how can I get rid of it???

[bill23460]

Hello, a few years ago I had a microscopic parasite that made my legs itchy so when it happened again I went to my Doctor but he told me there were no holes so it was probably an allergic reaction, he gave me a cream that helped a little but didn't stop it.
I searched the net and someone said it might be due to something in bread so I stopped eating bread, then I stopped cakes and even schnitzel and crumbed fish, this did help but I still had it sometimes.
Finally I searched the net again and found it can be caused by lack or water, I realized I had been drinking a lot more coffee so I cut back the coffee and drank more water and it has stopped, my legs finally don't itch and I can eat bread again.
It is simple to test and it worked for me so I hope it helps you because I do understand how this can drive you crazy.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to dry skin which is common in winters or due to lichen sclerosis chronicus or eczema. Wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites. You can apply some calamine lotion at the rash as it will help in soothing the skin. You can take some OTC oral antihistamine medications like Benadryl or Claritin and see if it helps.

For mild-moderate symptoms a weak steroid may be used whilst more severe cases require a higher-potency steroid. Soap should be used minimally. Moisturizers should be reapplied liberally during the day. Adding a humidifier to the central heating system of your home or using a humidifier also helps.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.