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Treatments and drugs
By Mayo Clinic staffTo stop the stubborn itch-scratch cycle, you must stop scratching the affected area. It's bound to be tough, but you can do it. And your doctor can help.
Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Prescription medication. Oral or topical corticosteroids and oral antihistamines may be necessary to reduce the inflammation and relieve the intense itching. Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may be helpful for some people. If you develop a bacterial infection in the rash, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic lotion or oral antibiotics.
- Wet dressings. This involves applying medicated cream to affected areas and then covering these areas with damp cotton material that has been soaked in water or other solutions. The moisture in the wet dressings helps the skin absorb the medicated cream. Covering the area with a plastic tape containing medication in the adhesive, or a tape applied over skin treated with a corticosteroid cream or ointment can also be helpful. Change the tape every 24 hours, or at whatever interval your doctor recommends.
- Counseling. A counselor can help you learn how your emotions and behaviors can fuel — or prevent — itching and scratching.
Even after successful treatment, mild scarring or changes in skin color could remain.
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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