Treatment of senile itching. Senile itch - treatment of chronic itching of the skin of older people

The exact pathophysiology of senile itching has not yet been established. Now, senile skin itching is increasingly considered as an independent disease of people aged 55-70 years.

In men, this pathological condition develops more often than in women, attacks are stronger and more painful, periods of remission are shorter. In women, senile itch is associated with postmenopause, when female sex hormones cease to be produced.

A characteristic feature of the disease is its wavy course. Painful attacks, reaching their climax in the evening and at night, are followed by periods of fairly long “calm.” At this time, symptoms do not appear or appear very mildly. The impetus for a new outbreak of itching can be any mental stress: grief, joy, anger, just strong excitement.

Itchy skin brings moral, physical and psychological suffering: insomnia, depression, decreased social activity, emotional disturbances

Cyanide itching can be one of the symptoms of a somatic system disorder, diabetes mellitus, or mental illness.

Symptoms and manifestations of senile itching

Two forms of senile itching are considered:

Generalized – the whole body itches.
Localized - itching appears in places where the body comes into contact with underwear or in places of friction: elbow and knee bends, groin area, in women - under the mammary glands.

There are a number of general signs of pathology that are characteristic of all patients, regardless of the condition of the skin, existing or existing diseases.

Periodicity. The itching may wax and wane throughout the day. The morning and afternoon calm gives way to acute evening and night attacks.

Such an acute attack, provoked by stress, can develop during the daytime.

No mechanical trauma to the skin. Pathologies with similar symptoms have a specific difference: scratches appear from scratching. With senile itching, mechanical injuries to the skin are a rare occurrence.
Smooth, “polished” nails. Characteristic and specific sign. With cyanotic itching, the nails become smooth and shiny from constant friction against the skin.
Dryness and flaking of the skin. Constant companions of the disease are dermatological problems. Protrusions in the form of small rashes or erythematous spots are observed on the skin. At the same time, pyoderma, a purulent inflammation of the skin, almost never develops.

The main causes of senile itching

The “trigger” for the development of senile itching most often becomes:

Dysfunction of the hormonal system. Itching is a common phenomenon with hyperthyroidism - excessive production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. In women, itching is a direct consequence of disruption of the ovaries, which produce estrogen.
Violation of water balance, decrease in fluid content in the body.
Sclerotic changes in blood vessels, the development of autoimmune processes against their background.
Atrophic changes in the nervous system, neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system.
Atrophic and dystrophic processes directly in the dermis, disruption of the structure of connective skin function, malfunction of the sweat and sebaceous glands

Gastrointestinal problems become a provoking factor in the appearance of Dühring's herpetimorphic dermatitis.

A characteristic and specific feature of the disease is the appearance of a herpes-like rash. Fluid-filled blisters appear on the skin. When scratched, the bubbles burst and the liquid gets onto healthy skin, infecting it. The rashes are localized on the back, in the scapular, shoulder, and gluteal areas.

How is itching treated in older patients? Diagnostics

The first and necessary condition is to visit a doctor. Based on the conversation with the patient, a life history and medical history are compiled, and a differentiated medical examination is carried out.

Differentiated diagnosis is necessary to exclude diseases in which itching is an accompanying symptom.

Diseases	What happens in the body	Other manifestations
Diseases of nephrological nature, chronic pathologies of the liver and stomach	The erythrocyte composition of the blood changes	Nausea and urge to vomit. Changes in skin color and whites of the eyes. Change in color of stool and urine. Feeling of constant heaviness in the right hypochondrium. Painful sensations in the lower lumbar region.
Hormonal system disorders (diabetes mellitus)	The pancreas can't do its job. Insulin is either not produced at all, or its amount is insufficient to process even a minimal amount of glucose	Numbness of the limbs, feeling of coldness in the fingertips. Strong and frequent urination. Constant thirst. Permanent feeling of fatigue and apathy.
Purulent skin lesions, pyogenic infection	Attack of staphylococci, streptococci, E. coli	Streptoderma Folliculitis Furunculosis Cellulitis
Helminthiasis	Damage to the body by worms and their metabolic products.	Nausea and vomiting. Constipation, diarrhea. General weakness.
Scabies, pediculosis	Infestation with mites or lice	Scratching, “itch burrows” - grayish stripes with a bubble at the end in which the female is located
Allergy	Exposure to allergens	Redness of the sclera, lacrimation, conjunctivitis, swelling of the eyelids, allergic rhinitis
Malignant processes	Growth of mutated cells	The first manifestations are chronic apathy and fatigue; weight loss; slightly elevated temperature; pigmented skin lesions.

After collecting anamnesis and talking with a doctor, an initial examination is carried out. In practice, one of the methods of early diagnosis is a blitz course of antipruritic therapy. A preliminary diagnosis is made based on the presence or absence of a response from the body. During the initial examination, blood is taken from a finger for analysis and skin scraping is done to exclude skin diseases and allergic reactions.

If the cause of itching is not identified, a detailed screening examination is performed. Screening tests include serological tests, biochemical blood tests, protein electrophoresis, fecal occult blood tests, helminths and worm eggs.

Local and systemic treatment. How and what to treat senile itching

There is no single scheme for treating the disease. Prescriptions are addressed to a specific patient. This takes into account the general condition of the patient and possible risks of side effects. The complex of therapeutic measures includes local and systemic treatment.

Phototherapy

It has been used in the treatment of dermatoses for more than 30 years.

narrow-band phototherapy - exposure to hard-to-reach areas with a narrow beam of light;
broadband phototherapy – exposure of large areas to a wide beam of light.

With light therapy, the production of collagen and elastin, which are responsible for the elasticity and youth of the skin, increases, and metabolic processes are activated.

The method has no side effects typical of pharmaceuticals and has found wide application in geriatrics (medicine for the elderly).

Antihistamines

For senile itching, first-generation H1-blockers of histamine receptors are prescribed. 1st generation antihistamines include Diphenhydramine, Suprastin, Tavegil, Diazolin. For senile itching, antihistamines are recommended to be taken at night - they have a pronounced hypnotic and sedative effect.

Drugs of this kind have a number of side effects, cause addiction and constant drowsiness.

Neuroleptics

To treat severe forms of the condition, psychotropic drugs are used. Indicated for patients in whom itching has caused neurotic symptoms - primarily, disturbances in night sleep, irritability, and aggression.

If the patient has a depressive syndrome, simultaneous administration of small doses of neuroleptics and antidepressants is prescribed.

Local anesthetics

Local anesthetics are antipruritic ointments, the main active ingredient of which (novocaine, lidocaine) blocks the transmission of impulses and reduces the sensitivity of the skin. The main purpose of such drugs is to eliminate mild itching; The effectiveness of local anesthetics for neuropathic itching has been proven. Thus, Polidocanol has a local anesthetic and moisturizing effect. Reduces the physical symptoms of chenille itching, contact dermatitis, psoriasis.

To enhance the therapeutic effect, local anesthetics are used in conjunction with refrigerants. When prescribing, Novocaine’s ability to cause attacks of drug allergies is taken into account. Therefore, when collecting anamnesis, pay attention to the tolerability of not only Novocaine, but also others. Similar in structure, anesthetics.

Salicylic acid

Local salicylates have a keratolytic effect, soften and moisturize the upper layers of the epidermis. The antipruritic effect of salicylic acid is due to its ability to suppress prostanoids. The use of salicylates in acute dermatological processes is contraindicated. Taking salicylic acid orally will not provide relief from senile itching.

Creams: moisturizing, softening, protective

Moisturizing, softening, protective creams are not medicines. But they form the basis of treatment and prevention of senile itching. Products of this kind act on the upper layers of the epidermis, soften the skin, protect it from the influence of the external environment, and create a protective barrier against viral and bacterial infections.

Thus, Nezulin cream-gel soothes, moisturizes the skin, and fights irritation. It includes essential oils and plant extracts, d-panthenol.

Topical corticosteroids

These drugs cannot be fully called antipruritic. But drugs of the corticosteroid class suppress the inflammatory process (have an antiphlogistic effect). Corticosteroids are not long-term medications and are not used to relieve generalized itching. Permanent use of corticosteroids has a negative effect on the well-being and health of older people.

Topical immunomodulators

The most famous include Calcineurin, Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus. Medicines have a similar pharmacological effect - they suppress the production of cytokines, proteins responsible for the development of pathological conditions, allergic reactions, and stimulation of cell growth.

The prescription of immunomodulators is indicated in cases where the root cause of senile itching is seborrheic, chronic dermatitis or scabies

Antidepressants

A number of antidepressants (Amitriptyline) block histamine receptors and have an antipruritic effect.

If senile itching acts as an accompanying symptom of another disease, the use of Mirtazapine, SSRI Paroxetine, Fluvoxamine is indicated.

In the case of diagnosing the psychogenic itching system, psychotropic drugs are also used. In a depressed patient, they lift the mood, reduce melancholy and apathy. Reception begins with light medications and small doses, which can subsequently be adjusted.

Folk remedies

“Herbalists” and medical doctors will tell you how to get rid of senile itching using folk remedies.”

Add fresh milk, buttermilk or whey to the bath. Allow the skin to dry, blot off excess moisture with a natural fabric towel.

Instead of milk, you can use herbal infusions of mint, linden, and calendula. To relieve skin rashes, irritation, and insomnia, string, oregano, valerian, chamomile, nettle and birch leaves are suitable.

To make a phyton infusion, pour boiling water over two handfuls of herbs, wrap them up, let them cool slowly, and pour them into the bath.

As compresses, lotions, rubbings are used:

Apple vinegar. Dilute vinegar with water (1:1). Wipe the skin 3-4 times a day.
Place a teaspoon of propolis in 100 g of olive oil. Dissolve in a water bath. Apply the infusion to very itchy areas.
Dissolve 2g mummy in water (100ml). Apply lotions to itchy areas.

For itching, brew tea from strawberry leaves, valerian, calendula and violet flowers. This tea also has a calming effect.

Treatment of senile itching requires an integrated approach. It includes feasible physical labor, diet, and gentle sports exercises. This also includes the use of protective and moisturizing preparations, and avoidance of aggressive household chemicals. Following simple rules greatly alleviates the condition of an elderly person.

Older people in Russia represent the fastest growing segment of the population, and one of the most common skin health complaints in this age group is the so-called senile itch. The many changes that come with advancing age mean that managing pruritus in old age poses a particular therapeutic challenge. The etiology of pruritus can be varied, although dry skin is the most common cause. In addition, some skin and systemic diseases that are associated with itching are more common among older adults. There is currently no generally accepted therapy for senile itch; It is believed that pruritus in old age is best treated with an individualized approach, taking into account the patient's general health, the severity of symptoms and the adverse effects of treatment. Physical and cognitive limitations, comorbidities, and polypharmacy are just some of the aspects that may influence the choice of treatment for itchy skin in older adults.

Senile itch is a common symptom of old age.

Itching is the most common skin complaint in patients over 65 years of age. It is often neglected by many people, although itchy skin can have a serious impact on quality of life in old age, especially through sleep deprivation. Given the many changes that accompany advancing age, the management of pruritus in old age poses a particular clinical challenge.

Pathophysiology of senile itch

Itching in old age can be the result of various reasons. Xerosis (dry skin), which worsens with age, is probably the most common cause of itching in old age. As the skin ages, its integumentary and vascular systems undergo atrophy, leading to insufficient moisture retention. However, many older patients have itchy skin without visible dry skin. There are other skin changes in older patients that may contribute to itching and include a decrease in surface lipids, a decrease in sweat and sebum, and a decrease in the skin's repair and barrier capabilities.

Itchy skin also occurs due to the decline in normal immune system function that comes with aging, as well as higher rates of autoimmune skin diseases that can cause itching, such as bullous pemphigoid and postherpetic neuralgia. Additional factors may also play a role, such as age-related changes in nerve fibers and polypharmacy. Some cutaneous and systemic disorders associated with itchy skin are also more common in older patients. However, in many cases, the obvious cause of pruritus is not diagnosed.

Clinical features of senile itching

A detailed history, review of systems, and physical examination are of paramount importance in guiding antipruritic treatment of aging skin. Once cutaneous and systemic causes of pruritus have been excluded, idiopathic pruritus in the elderly may be considered. However, if the underlying cause is discovered, it should be treated as this often results in symptomatic improvement. Some itchy skin conditions are more common in older people, such as dry skin, coin-shaped dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis. Especially common in patients with dementia and Parkinson's disease.

Systemic diseases that are associated with itching, such as chronic kidney disease, liver dysfunction, and endocrine disorders, are also more common among older adults. Notably, infectious etiologies of pruritus, including scabies and head lice, may be more common in this age group, especially in healthcare settings. In addition, drugs that are frequently used by older adults increase the possibility of drug-induced pruritus (eg, aspirin, opioids, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors). Another important reason in this group is that chronic itching may be a sign of an underlying malignant disease and, thus, any case with a high index of suspicion requires careful diagnosis. Mental disorders and neurotic disorders are also on the list of common causes of itchy skin in this age group.

General principles for the treatment of senile itch

Managing pruritus in older age poses a particular challenge. Physical and cognitive impairment may make the use of topical treatment impossible, and concomitant diseases, especially those affecting the liver and kidneys in this age group, carry a greater risk of adverse reactions. Currently, there is no generally accepted treatment for itching of senile skin. Instead, the management of itching, especially in older age, requires a highly individualized approach, taking into account the patient's overall health, the severity of symptoms and the adverse effects of health treatments.

There are a number of general measures that can be helpful in managing itching in older adults, regardless of the underlying cause. Patient education is central to pruritus management. Identifying and addressing aggravating factors are often the first steps toward successful treatment. Patients should be informed of the increased potential for skin inflammation after scratching, and simple measures such as trimming nails can interrupt the vicious circle of itching-scratching-itching. The itching sensation is often aggravated by heat, so if necessary, measures such as taking cool showers, wearing light clothing, and using air conditioning to keep the skin cool can be taken. Wherever possible, simple home regimens are preferable to limit skin itching as much as possible and avoid possible adverse reactions to treatment for itchy skin.

Local treatment of senile itching

Moisturizing, softening and protective creams

Moisturizing, emollient and protective creams are the mainstay of treatment for itching in old age, especially in cases associated with dry skin. These non-pharmacological compounds reduce itching by increasing barrier function, helping to prevent transepidermal water loss, possibly preventing the penetration of irritants and other scabious pathogens. Low pH topical therapy may be particularly useful in optimizing skin barrier function. In addition, low pH for topical treatment may have the added benefit of reducing the activity of serine proteases such as mast cell tryptase, which is known to be activated by protease-activating receptor 2 (Par2) on skin nerve fibers.

Topical corticosteroids

Topical corticosteroids do not directly have antipruritic effects, but the therapeutic effect is associated with their anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, corticosteroids should only be used to help relieve itching associated with inflammatory skin diseases such as coinform dermatitis and psoriasis. Topical corticosteroids should not be used to treat generalized chronic itching or for long periods of time. It should be noted that older adults are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of overuse of topical corticosteroids.

Topical immunomodulators

Topical calcineurin inhibitors, tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, may be effective in reducing itching in conditions such as chronic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, anogenital pruritus, scabies, and others. Although recognized side effects of these agents include burning and tingling sensations, they are particularly beneficial for older people who are not at risk of skin atrophy.

Menthol

Menthol is often used as a local antipruritic in a concentration of 1-3%. Menthol has been shown to produce the same cooling sensations as low temperature through the TRPM8 receptor. 12 Both options for cooling the skin relieve induced itching, although menthol is not associated with a decrease in skin temperature. It should be noted that elderly patients who report a reduction in pruritus with cooling may particularly benefit from therapy with menthol-containing preparations.

Capsaicin

Capsaicin has been reported to have beneficial effects in chronic, localized pruritic diseases, especially those of neuropathic origin, that are common in the elderly (eg, postherpetic neuralgia and brachioradial pruritus). However, at least 15 side effects of capsaicin are known, including intense burning at the site of application, which can lead to poor health, especially in older people.

Local anesthetics

Pramoxine, a local anesthetic, reduces itching by interfering with the transmission of impulses along sensory nerve fibers; the drug can reduce itching in patients on hemodialysis. The combination of 5% urea and 3% polidocanol significantly reduces itching in patients with atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis and psoriasis.

Salicylic acid

Topical application of salicylic acid, a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, has been shown to significantly reduce pruritus in patients with lichen diseases, possibly due to its inhibitory effect on prostanoids. It should be noted that oral salicylates do not relieve senile itching of the skin, with the exception of polycythemia vera.

Systemic treatment of chronic skin itching

Antihistamines

With the exception of chronic urticaria, antihistamines have little effect on conditions associated with itching. Sedating antihistamines (first generation) may have a role through their hypnotic effects on nocturnal itching, but antihistamines should be taken with caution in older adults to avoid causing excessive drowsiness.

Antidepressants

Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, such as mirtazapine, can reduce pruritus in patients with advanced cancer (eg, leukemia and lymphoma, including cutaneous lymphoma), chronic kidney disease, and cholestasis. Mirtazapine may also be particularly useful for treating nighttime itching. In addition, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors can also have an antipruritic effect. The SSRIs paroxetine and fluvoxamine reduce chronic itch in patients with atopic dermatitis, systemic lymphoma, and solid carcinoma; while sertraline is an effective treatment for pruritus associated with chronic liver disease.

Antidepressants may be particularly useful in older patients with psychogenic causes of pruritus. It should be noted that it is wise to start with lower doses of antidepressants in old age and then adjust carefully to avoid significant side effects associated with these drugs.

Neuroleptics

Neuroleptics, gabapentin and pregablin, are structural analogues of the neurotransmitters γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The exact mechanisms of their antipruritic effects are unclear, but they may be related to inhibition of central itch pathways. Antipsychotics may be particularly useful in older adults for neuropathic pruritus associated with conditions such as brachioradial pruritus and postherpetic neuralgia. Gabapentin has been shown to reduce itching in patients with chronic kidney disease and lymphoma, but the treatment may worsen itching in patients with cholestasis.

Physical treatment

Phototherapy

Ultraviolet (UV), broadband ultraviolet, and narrowband phototherapy have been used successfully for the treatment of various pruritic dermatoses for over three decades. This treatment regimen may be particularly suitable for older adults, avoiding the risk of adverse drug reactions (although the risk of phototoxicity is increased) and overcoming problems such as physical and cognitive limitations that can lead to non-adherence to the treatment plan.

Conclusion

The many changes that come with advancing age mean that the management of itch in older people continues to pose a particular diagnostic and treatment challenge. Physical and social limitations may influence treatment choices in this age group. Senile itchy skin needs to be treated on an individual basis, taking into account the patient's general health, the severity of symptoms and the adverse effects of treatment.

Denial of responsibility : The information presented in this article about itchy skin is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a healthcare professional.

Information sources:

Beauregard C. Review of skin problems and skin care for older people. Arch Dermatol 123(12):1638-43
Norman RA. Xerosis and pruritus in old age: recognition and management. Dermatol Ther 16(3):254–9.
Fleischer Jr. A. Itch in old age: Management by dermatologists. J Am Acad Dermatol 28(4):603–9.
Ward, Bernhard. Willian's itch and other causes of itching in old age. Int J Dermatol 44(4):267–73.
Wang H, Osipovich G. New ideas in the pathophysiology and treatment of chronic pruritus in patients with renal failure. Int J Dermatol 49 (1): 1-11 (2010 Jan).
Osipovich G, Samuel L. Neuropathic and psychogenic itching. Dermatol Ther 21(1):32-41 (2008 Jan-Feb).
Patel T, Menthol: A refreshing look at this ancient compound. J Am Acad Dermatol 57(5):873–8.
Manenti L, Vagalio A. Gabapentin for uremic pruritus. Nephrol Transplant Recruit 20(6):1278–9.

Related materials

Itchy skin in old age (over 60 years) is a fairly common complaint. It occurs unexpectedly, causing serious discomfort. There is nothing dangerous in the problem of senile itching itself, but it is still worth consulting a doctor to determine the cause of the symptom and prescribe treatment.

What is itchy skin?

The skin of an elderly person is prone to excessive dryness, which affects the development of severe itching, which can be bothersome during the day and intensify in the evening. A person’s lifestyle, habits and accompanying pathologies play a significant role in the formation of this process. More often the disease manifests itself in men, but it does not bypass women either.

Senile itching is a rather painful condition, the cause of which is a whole complex of changes in the body

The whole body is constantly itching and as a result the patient scratches wounds on the skin, which are the entrance gates for infection and contribute to infection by pathogenic microorganisms. That is why it is worth paying attention to the problem at the first signs of its occurrence.

Why do people itch - video with Elena Malysheva

Causes and development factors

The main reason for the development of itching is a person’s advanced age. The epidermis no longer produces enough elastin, which affects the condition of the skin. They become dry, lose turgor and smoothness, and severe peeling appears. In addition, itching can be a protective reaction of the body to external irritants.

Natural causes of itching:

decreased amount of fluid in the body;
loss of skin elasticity;
use of bedding and underwear made of artificial materials;
lack of careful hygiene due to infirmity;
use of aggressive soap;
reaction of the skin of an elderly person to hard water.

If these are the reasons for the development of itching, they should be eliminated, and the disease will most likely no longer bother you. But there are pathological conditions that can cause this symptom:

hormonal diseases or changes in the body (in women - menopause, in men - decreased testosterone);
diabetes;
gastrointestinal diseases;
diseases of the heart and blood vessels, including atherosclerosis;
insufficient functioning of the sebaceous and sweat glands.

There are other conditions that can cause itching. That is why it is necessary to be examined by a specialist who will rule out or confirm the pathology and prescribe symptomatic treatment.

Itchy skin with diabetes - video

Clinical picture in older people

The severity of the disease varies from person to person. Some sometimes scratch themselves, while others experience a deterioration in their quality of life. You should pay attention if the following signs appear:

constant itching that gets worse in the evening;
soreness of the skin in several places;
burning sensation;
formation of red spots;
dry skin, increased peeling;
increased irritability,
decreased appetite;
insomnia.

If the disease bothers you and prevents you from leading a full life, you should not put off visiting a dermatologist. He will prescribe a diet and treatment that will help improve the situation. As a rule, with the use of special ointments and slight lifestyle adjustments, the disease goes away without a trace.

Diagnostics

First of all, the doctor interviews the patient. This is necessary to collect the patient’s medical history and make an accurate diagnosis. The dermatologist must know when the itching appeared (the period of its greatest severity), what kind of life the elderly person leads.

After the interview, the patient's skin is examined. During this stage, the specialist will be able to determine the disease. In addition, the doctor will advise you to take:

Scraping to exclude fungal infections or bacterial infections.
Analysis for hidden allergens.

Differential diagnosis helps not to confuse senile itching with serious skin diseases that have similar symptoms:

contact dermatitis;
atopic dermatitis;
psoriasis;
scabies;
hives.

Treatment

Depending on the severity of the disease, appropriate treatment is selected. If the cause of itching is not a serious pathology, you will need to use local medications in the form of ointments, creams or gels, as well as follow a certain diet. If the situation raises concerns, medications and physiotherapeutic procedures are prescribed to treat the underlying disease causing itching.

In addition, with the permission and under the supervision of a dermatologist, it is allowed to use traditional medicine recipes, which help no worse than drugs. Self-medication is not recommended.

Medicines: ointment tablets and other drugs

Medications are necessary to restore the skin, moisturize it and protect it from external irritants. Symptomatic remedies are also prescribed. Therapeutic measures are selected strictly on an individual basis.

Approximate treatment plan:

Additionally, tablet forms of hormonal drugs can be prescribed, which will help relieve symptoms and correct the disease in a few days.

Nutrition

The diet should include a complex of essential vitamins and microelements, because the condition of his skin directly depends on the nutrition of an elderly person.

Prohibited for use:

caffeine;
hot, spicy, marinated dishes;
heavy meat broths and fried foods;
fruits and vegetables that have an allergic factor (citrus fruits and all red, orange fruits);
chocolate;
products made from wheat flour (fresh baked goods);
products with various artificial flavors and additives (soda, chips, crackers).

The daily diet should consist of 6-7 small portions that will not overload the stomach and cause a feeling of heaviness after eating.

It is worth noting that iodine deficiency leads to disturbances in the functioning of the thyroid gland and other hormone-producing organs, which inevitably affects the condition of the skin. In this case, it is recommended to season the food with special iodized salt, which compensates for the lack of the element.

Foods rich in iodine:

seaweed;
fish and offal (hake, cod liver);
seafood.

They should be consumed no more than three times a week, since excess iodine is no less dangerous than its deficiency.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6 are necessary for the proper functioning of all organs and systems. They affect the condition of the skin of old people, nourish it from the inside, and protect it from the effects of adverse external factors. A lack of fatty acids provokes senile itching and other unpleasant symptoms.

Foods rich in healthy fats:

unrefined vegetable oil;
walnuts;
sunflower, flax, pumpkin seeds;
sea fish;
seafood.

Daily consumption of 10 ml of vegetable oil on an empty stomach has a beneficial effect on the health of the gastrointestinal tract, circulatory system, and skin.

How to get rid of itching with physiotherapeutic procedures

Physiotherapy is known for its anti-inflammatory, immunostimulating and restorative effects.

Ultraviolet therapy is often used after repeated unsuccessful attempts to treat itching using other means

In the treatment of skin diseases, ultraviolet therapy (UVR) is most common. It has a beneficial effect on the epidermis:

restores protective properties;
launches natural metabolic processes.

Older people sometimes experience a side effect in the form of age spots, so the procedure should be approached with caution.

How to treat with folk remedies

There are several common recipes that reduce skin itching and provide visible relief at night:

Aloe based ointment. To make it, you need to take the squeezed juice of freshly picked aloe stems (without peel), mix with medical petroleum jelly in a 1:2 ratio and treat the skin several times a day until the condition improves. Store the composition in the refrigerator.
Vegetable oil. If there are no medications at hand, you can use any vegetable oil (for example, sunflower, olive, corn, soybean, flaxseed) to alleviate the condition. They need to lubricate the body twice a day.
Herbal mixtures. Baths with herbs can eliminate this unpleasant symptom. You can use celandine, oak bark, chamomile, birch buds together or separately. To make an infusion, you need to take 100 grams of a mixture of herbs, pour two liters of boiling water and leave in a warm place for 2 hours. Next, strain and add the infusion to the bath. Such bathing is recommended daily.

In addition, for a restful sleep, you need to brew a soothing tea based on mint leaves. During severe insomnia, with the permission of a doctor, it is allowed to use Corvalol (30 drops) diluted with water (100 ml).

If folk remedies do not produce positive results within a week, you should seek help from a specialist.

Complications

If you see a doctor in a timely manner, the prognosis is usually favorable. Ointments and tablets quickly eliminate itching without leaving a trace of it.

It is necessary to complete the full course of treatment, as well as regularly carry out preventive measures so that relapses do not make themselves felt in the future.

With adequate therapy, complications are extremely rare. The most common among them are:

Infectious skin lesions that occur as a result of vigorous scratching of itchy areas.
Neurotic disorders (indirect complications). A person is bothered by insomnia, irritability and apathy appear. After treating the itching, this condition goes away on its own.

Prevention

Preventive measures must be approached rationally. You should normalize your lifestyle and make some adjustments to it. This will help avoid senile itching in old age and prevent relapses after suffering from an illness.

Prevention measures:

Change bedding and underwear made from artificial fabrics to cotton counterparts.
Regularly moisturize and nourish the skin with oils or creams, avoid overdrying it with aggressive running water or soap (do not cleanse the skin “to the point of squeaking”).
Cover exposed skin while walking under the scorching sun.
Improve your diet and include foods containing polyunsaturated fatty acids in your diet.
Do not scratch or rub itchy areas of the body.
Trim your nails promptly to prevent skin infections.
Have an annual medical examination with all specialized doctors (endocrinologist, cardiologist, therapist, dermatologist).
Do not drink alcohol or smoke.

Upon reaching old age, many people begin to complain that their back begins to constantly itch. The sensations in the area of the shoulder blade, shoulders, spine and lower back become so strong that they resemble an itch, which is sometimes very difficult to get rid of. Severe itching of the skin of the back, and sometimes of the entire body, is a typical complaint in patients whose age has reached the barrier of 65 years or more. Many people do not pay significant attention to this physiological phenomenon of the body, neglecting the symptoms of senile itching.

Physiology of the disease

Senile itching is a consequence of loss of moisture from the skin. In medicine, this condition of the epidermis is called “Xerosis”. As a person ages, skin cells and vascular tissue gradually atrophy. These processes lead to insufficient hydration of the skin. They begin to dry out, the top layer of skin flakes off and itches. This is how the body signals that dead skin particles need to be removed. Due to old age, the activity of the sebaceous glands also decreases, and this can only increase discomfort in the back and other parts of the body.

Itching in old age is often caused by abnormalities in the functioning of the immune system.

The body's protective function is reduced, and there is a risk of infection with skin mites. In older people who are prone to neuralgic diseases, the body begins to itch from the slightest experiences or stressful situations. This is the so-called neuralgic itching, which goes away immediately after taking sedatives. This patient’s condition is difficult to treat due to systemic dysfunction of the peripheral nervous system.

One of the features of this skin condition is that often the nature of senile itching is not diagnosed. Doctors conduct a comprehensive examination of the patient, study the health of the skin, conduct clinical and biochemical blood tests, the activity of the central nervous system, and the functionality of the digestive organs in order to exclude the possible presence of diabetes mellitus, but it is not always possible to determine the final cause of this phenomenon. Sometimes, the body stops itching only after taking medications that block the feeling of discomfort.

General methods to combat itching

In old age, it is quite difficult to concentrate your attention on some other objects when your back itches so much. In old age, the use of medications that reduce itching may be impossible due to poor health of the stomach, kidneys and liver. In addition to this, medications often have a number of side effects that can negatively affect the well-being of an old person. Therefore, to minimize discomfort in the shoulders, spine, lumbar shoulder blade, and other parts of the body, you need to adhere to the following recommendations:

In the morning and evening, take a warm shower using baby soap. Water procedures will reduce the likelihood of pathogenic microorganisms developing on the skin and improve overall blood circulation in the vessels of the skin.
Wear things only from natural fabrics (wool, cotton, linen). These fabrics do not cause allergic reactions, do not electrify, and have a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin.
Areas of skin that are constantly and severely itchy should be lubricated with a moisturizer after taking a shower. These manipulations are aimed at replenishing the missing amount of moisture.
Avoid nervous tension, do not get involved in conflict situations that could potentially result in a stressful state.
Periodically take light sedatives to avoid itching of a neuralgic nature.

If you use these methods daily and in combination, you can significantly reduce the sensation of itching, and sometimes completely get rid of its manifestation. All these procedural aspects are easy to implement, and they are successfully used at home. Perhaps in some situations, for example, to apply moisturizer to the back, you may need the help of someone close to you who lives with the elderly person. Each case is individual, so you need to listen to your feelings and adjust your further actions.

Local treatment of itching in old age

There are methods for local treatment of areas of skin that itch severely over a long period of time. Most of them are based on the use of medications that have a suppressive effect on the sensation of itching. To prevent itchy skin in the area of the shoulders, lower back, spine, shoulder blades, and back in general, you need to use the following therapeutic methods:

If a dark spot of a senile hue, or a rash in the form of pimples, appears on the body, this may indicate that the cause of the itching is not due to old age, but due to the presence of an infectious disease or development. An accurate diagnosis can only be made based on the results of a comprehensive examination.

General treatment of senile itch

If local therapy is ineffective, general medications are used. As a rule, their use is justified if a person suffers from chronic itching of the skin over a long period of time, and doctors cannot determine the cause of this disease. In such cases, drugs of different categories and directions of action are selected. Based on the results of the skin's reaction to each drug, therapy is adjusted to further improve well-being. Patients are prescribed drugs of the following category:

Antihistamines. Relieves the feeling of itching if it is caused by an allergic reaction.
Antidepressants. Used to treat older people whose body itches due to deteriorating mental health.
Neuroleptics. Effective against skin itching of neuropathic origin. Such patients begin to itch as soon as nervousness appears.

Senile itching is a complex problem of the health of a person who has reached old age. The reasons for its appearance can be very diverse, but the main one is still a change in the intensity of all vital processes occurring in the body of an aging person.

Aging is a natural process, which, however, causes many negative changes in the body, which often lead to unpleasant consequences. In older people, hormonal balance and metabolism change; the circulatory, nervous, digestive systems and other parts of the body undergo serious structural and functional changes. Last but not least, these changes affect the skin - one of the most sensitive elements of the human body. This is especially true for women, whose skin has a number of significant differences from men's. Thinner, more delicate and exposed to destructive environmental factors, it is one of the first to experience the consequences of age-related changes.

Elderly patients experience numerous changes in the skin: it becomes dry, wrinkled, loses volume and elasticity. Pigment spots and other defects appear on the surface of the skin, which often cause significant psychological discomfort to patients. However, an even more unpleasant manifestation of age-related changes is senile itching in women. Severe itching is a common cause of insomnia, anxiety and depressive disorders and can lead to serious consequences.

Why does senile itch occur?

One of the main causes of senile itching is xerosis - pathological drying of the skin, which is often observed in older people. In old age, the skin loses its ability to retain moisture necessary to maintain its volume and elasticity - this occurs due to changes in the functioning of nerves, skin cells, and the endocrine system. Xerosis leads to irritation and peeling of the skin, and atrophy of the sweat and sebaceous glands and a decrease in the volume of lipids on the surface of the skin only worsen the situation. Its barrier and protective properties are violated, and restoration processes slow down.

Autoimmune and other somatic disorders are widespread among elderly patients, often leading to skin pathologies, one of the symptoms of which is itching. Such disorders include, for example, bullous pemphigoid, as well as postherpetic neuralgia, a nervous system disorder caused by infection with the Varicella-Zoster virus.

Nervous system disorders are among the most common causes of senile itch in women. Often the first signs of the disease occur against a background of strong nervous excitement and stress, especially chronic stress. In addition, age-related changes in the nervous system can lead to malfunctions of the peripheral nerves that innervate the skin. Skin itching of a neurogenic nature is especially common in elderly patients, which is explained by the characteristics of the female nervous system, increased excitability and emotionality.

Treatment of itching in elderly patients can be very difficult due to the frequently present concomitant diseases, physical, mental and cognitive characteristics characteristic of older people. Therapy for this disease is usually aimed at eliminating, first of all, the main causes of itching - such as somatic and dermatological diseases. In the treatment of skin itching, the use of pharmaceuticals is of great importance:

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroid-based drugs are widely used in the treatment of itching associated with inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis and nummular dermatitis. The pronounced anti-inflammatory effect provided by these drugs helps eliminate itching; however, these drugs should be used with caution in elderly patients due to their hormonal origin and the abundance of side effects.

Antihistamines

Drugs of this series effectively suppress the activity of histamine, a hormone involved in the formation of many pathological reactions of the skin.

Sedatives, sleeping pills, antidepressants

One group includes drugs whose use is aimed at normalizing the functioning of the nervous system and eliminating insomnia and anxiety disorders.