Same day Itchy Skin Appointments Near Me in Durham, NC

Your doctor may recommend or prescribe medication to control itching and relieve your symptoms. Common forms of medication used to treat itchy skin include:

- Medicated creams or ointments: Topical creams containing corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and soothe itching. These medications are most effective when applied after a warm bath or shower.

- Antihistamines: Antihistamines (usually sold as a pill, cream, or spray) help block your body’s allergic reaction to irritating substances. These drugs can help prevent flare-ups of itchy skin and can relieve symptoms in affected areas. If you are taking an oral antihistamine, pay attention to whether or not the drug is non-drowsy or not. Some antihistamines (like Benadryl) can cause drowsiness, and should not be taken before you operate motor vehicles or go about daily activities.

- Antidepressants: Some antidepressant medications such as fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft) can help relieve chronic itching.

Most cases of itchy skin can be treated at home with a few simple remedies. Extremely dry skin is one of the most common causes of itchy skin, and can easily be addressed with some self-care practices. Some things you can do at home to relieve itching include:

- Moisturize. Using a moisturizing cream or lotion several times a day can prevent cracked, irritated, and itchy skin. These products are most effective when applied right after a shower or bath, while the skin is still moist.

- Avoid hot water. Bathe or shower in warm, not hot, water. Hot water can irritate and dry out the skin.

- Use sunscreen. Exposure to the sun can cause skin damage and skin cancer. Use sunscreen regularly to prevent dry, cracked, and irritated skin.

- Use gentle products. Avoid soaps, detergents, body washes, and cleaning products that contain harsh ingredients and fragrances. These chemicals can irritate your skin.

- Use a humidifier. Heating appliances can cause dry skin. Keep your thermostat low and use a humidifier to maintain soothing moisture in your home.

- Avoid items that make you itch. Wool and synthetic fabrics can cause itchy, irritated skin. Wear loose, light clothing made from materials that don’t irritate your skin.

- Reduce stress. Stress and anxiety can make your itching worse. Use relaxation and stress management techniques, such as yoga or meditation, to prevent stress.