Mom is 92 and suffers from dementia. For the past few weeks she has been itching to the point that she bleeds. Her skin is paper thin and any amount of itching also produces bruising. She does take a baby aspirin. We had bloodwork drawn but that was normal. I try very hard to explain that she shouldn't itch and offer alternatives ( rubbing, cold compresses etc). Her only answer is, "It itches I have to scratch it." She just can't remember that she shouldn't itch. I have suggested perhaps putting cotton painters gloves on her. She didn't like that idea. Have not changed any soaps or detergents. Have tried numerous creams, lotions and cortisone creams but they don't seem to help. She showers frequently and I do cream her up afterwards. Any suggestions?
One problem people have is they get in a itch-scratch-itch cycle. Scratching an itch only makes it itch more. We can end up clawing our skin off if we don't break the cycle. If the cream doesn't work, see a dermatologist. He/she can check to see if the follicles are inflamed. If they are, an antifungal cream may be in order.
I don't know why older women have so much trouble with itching, but they do. The arms and backs are the most affected. It is very common and usually nothing serious.
The "shouldn't itch" comment doesn't work just by nature of the fact that she DOES itch. Try benedryl/lidocaine/aloe anyway. Doctors don't know everything.
Thanks for sharing your diagnosis, will look that up.
FF,
My go to itch cream, yes, extra-strength benadryl lotion.
Have you also taken her to a dermatologist to determine if there are any skin issues to address? Do you apply safe, healthy lotions to her skin?
Do you have a humidifier in the house? Have you measured the moisture level in the air with a hygrometer? Changed the furnace filters regularly?
If you're using dryer sheets, stop immediately. They have undesirable chemicals.
You might also try using an herbal soap with no preservatives.
Sometimes taking a shower that is too hot will dry out the skin, make it flake and become itchy. That happens to me in the winter. Plus I need to wash my clothes, bedding, and towels in detergents that are "basic" with no ocean breeze scents [love that smell], same with the fabric sheets, again "basic".
For me, I found Extra Strength BENADRYL® Itch Stopping Cream worked.