![]() Despite a thorough medical review and workup, chronic itch has no identifiable cause in up to 11% of cases. Primary dermatologic conditions will most often have a recognizable skin manifestation ranging from a localized rash to erythroderma, while neuropathic, systemic, or psychogenic etiologies may present with no rash or only secondary skin lesions. The clinical presentation of itch may vary widely depending on the underlying etiology. Medical workup for an elderly patient with chronic itch requires special attention to the patient’s history of disease, consideration of undiagnosed systemic disease, co-morbid psychologic conditions, as well as comprehensive review of the patient’s current topical and systemic therapies. In addition, the elderly are more likely to have itch due to age-related changes in the skin, co-morbid systemic disease, medication effects, and psychological conditions. ![]() ![]() Primary dermatologic conditions account for up to 28% of the chronic itch seen in some elderly populations. Chronic itch, defined as present for more than 6 weeks, can be debilitating and significantly affect quality of life. New and emerging treatment modalities hold promise for use in the elderly due to these special considerations.ĭiseases that cause itch are some of the most common dermatologic complaints in the elderly (age 65 and above) with prevalence estimates up to 37.5%. In addition, management in the elderly may be complicated by differential pharmacokinetics of medications, the presence of co-morbid health conditions, cognitive disorders, physical limitations, and polypharmacy. Systemic medications pose a higher risk of adverse effects and many are contraindicated in the elderly for this reason. Topical treatments and emollients may be recommended for elderly patients, with consideration of specific adverse effects and alternatives. Thus, medical workup for an elderly patient with chronic itch requires special attention to the patient’s medical history, current health status, and medications. Also, co-morbid diseases particularly of the renal, hepatobiliary, or hematologic systems, psychologic conditions, or medications may contribute to chronic itch in this population. Certain primary dermatologic conditions are more common in the elderly and can cause chronic itch. Age-related changes in barrier function, immunosenescence, and neuronal changes and neuropathies are common predisposing factors to chronic itch in this age group. Your itch can be resolved quickly and your symptoms can be relieved, so don’t delay your appointment.Chronic itch is common in the elderly patient and may be caused by a variety of known dermatologic and non-dermatologic conditions and can have a significant effect on quality of life. If you suffer from a worsening itch, or one that persists for longer than a week, it might be time to arrange a medical consultation. Most of the preventative measures regarding ear irritation are common sense and easy to implement, although they are more effective when formulated by a medical expert who knows your symptoms and condition.Īnyone who has experienced severe ear itching knows how bothersome such conditions can be. In some extreme cases, the use of steroid ear drops for a long period of time may be necessary. Many people also find that they need to use moisturizing creams or oils to ward off cracking and excessive dryness. Proper cleaning of anything put in or near the ears is essential. Often, patients also need to take extra care when using things like earphones or hearing aids: just being gentle when inserting buds can make a big difference. * These tips have been approved by ’s in-house audiologist, Dr. The main thing to remember is that ear itching is almost always manageable and curable, if you seek appropriate medical assistance in a timely fashion. ![]() ![]() However, persistent itching should always be evaluated by a licensed professional. There are also some home remedies that are known to provide relief. This may be accomplished via curettes (small instruments used to scoop out earwax), irrigation, softening drops or suction. If the problem is earwax buildup, removal of the earwax may be recommended to unblock the ear canal. In cases where ear itching is thought to be the result of an allergy, patients may be tested for allergic factors, and doctors may recommend that they avoid certain products or activities such as swimming. Anti-fungal drops in some cases (or a combination of these medications).Corticosteroid drops to alleviate swelling around the outer ear.Antibiotic ear drops to tackle the pathogens causing the irritation.In those cases, doctors will most likely prescribe: If the cause is determined to be an ear infection, the treatment will probably be different. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |