itchy skin on leg

[weichiu]

I often have itchy sensation on my lower leg. Sometimes I have suspicion that it's due to dry air, which humidifier does alleviate the sensation. It has worsened in the last 2 years, perhaps with age (I'm currently 36 years old) Besides humidifier, are there other remedies that you may recommend (e.g., type of moisturizer, diet, etc). Also at the detection of extreme itchiness, when immediate moisturizer does not help and it seems that scratching is the only temporary remedy at that point, what would you recommend as a quick and effective temporary relief?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Dry skin or xerosis can often cause itchy skin and the other possibility is of lichen simplex chronicus. Apply good quality fragrance free moisturizers and wear cotton clothes. If the symptoms still persist then you can apply mild steroid. For the itching antihistaminics like Benadryl or Claritin can be taken.

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.

[weichiu]

thanks that vote of confidence that it's not cancer! I was a bit worried for a moment there. ;-)

how do you delete postings in certain forums? I think it got categorized in the wrong forum, and I couldn't delete it right after the posting showed up.

[Pum]

A good immediate treatment is a cold flannel or some ice. Try to avoid itching. It can just make the problem worse.

Consider changing your washing powders/soaps etc. to see if you can reduce the problem.

You are doing the right things already ie moisturising. Avoid tight clothes/socks, anything that causes chaffing or holds sweat against your skin.

Take care. It is a common issue and is not cancer.