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Lifestyle and home remedies
By Mayo Clinic staffThe following are ways you can lessen the itch and irritation caused by neurodermatitis.
- Try over-the-counter (nonprescription) creams or medications. Apply an anti-itch cream or lotion to the affected area. A nonprescription hydrocortisone cream can temporarily relieve the itch. A nonprescription oral antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl, others), may be helpful if itching is severe.
- Cover the affected area. Bandages or dressings can help protect the skin and prevent scratching. This may be especially important if you scratch during your sleep.
- Keep your nails trimmed. Short nails may do less damage to the skin, especially if you tend to scratch while you're asleep.
- Take cool baths. Sprinkle the bath water with baking soda, uncooked oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal — a finely ground oatmeal that is made for the bathtub (Aveeno, others).
- Wear smooth-textured cotton clothing. This will help you avoid irritation.
- Choose mild soaps without dyes or perfumes. Be sure to rinse the soap completely off your body. And after washing, apply an unscented moisturizer to protect your skin.
- Keep stress under control. Stress and anxiety can trigger itching.
References
- Lichen simplex chronicus. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/print/sec10/ch114/ch114f.html. Accessed March 17, 2010.
- Burgin S. Nummular eczema and lichen simplex chronicus/prurigo nodularis. In: Wolff K, et al. Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine. 7th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Medical; 2003. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=2961069. Accessed March 17, 2010.
- Lichon V, et al. Lichen simplex chronicus. Dermatology Nursing. 2007;19:276.
- Berger TG. Dermatologic disorders. In: McPhee SJ, et al. Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment. 49th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Medical; 2010. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=747. Accessed March 17, 2010.
- Witch hazel. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. http://www.naturaldatabase.com. Accessed March 17, 2010.
- Camphor. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. http://www.naturaldatabase.com. Accessed March 17, 2010.
- Shenefelt PD. Hypnosis in dermatology. Archives of Dermatology. 2000;136:393.
- Gibson LE (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 22, 2010.
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