Pruritis its Causes and Treatment

Pruritis is associated with underlying systemic illnesses or a bothersome itch. Pruritis is the name for itchiness that causes pets to scratch. Pruritis is a common and often challenging adverse effect of hemodialysis, often occurring in patients who already have uremia-associated pruritis to be begin with.

what is Pruritis ?

Pruritis, or generalized itch, is a source of serious discomfort and distress in a significant minority of people living with AIDS.

Causes of Pruritis

The exact causes of an Pruritis is unknows and is a complex process. Pruritis Ani usally occurs in men. The known causes of an Pruritis Ani are as follows -

    *  Vulvar and vaginal problems in prepubertal females can cause
    * Intrahepatic and extrahepatic biliary obstruction
    * Common skin diseases can also cause
    * 2% of pregnant women have pruritus without any obvious dermatological cause.
    * Pruritus caused by systemic disease like Diabetes, Hyperthyroidism, Hypoparathyroidism, Myxoedema, etc.

Symptoms of Pruritis

    *  Itch, a raw feeling and occasional bleeding generally caused by scratching are the common symptoms.
    * Intense itching, increased sensitivity and irritation in the genital area. The skin may get dry.
    * Intensity of itching increases as the area exposed to moisture,pressure or sitting.
    * Difficulty breathing.
    * Shortness of breath.
    * Wheezing.
    * Sexual Problems : Discomfort during sexual intercourse,sometimes thin and white vaginal discharge.
    * Swelling in your face or throat.
    * changes: In living circumstances or in a diet may make the condition worse.
    * Stress may also leads to pruritis.
 
Treatment of Pruritis

This condition is treated by advising the patient to avoid overheating, alcohol and hot drinks. Calamine lotion helps to cool the skin, which should be prevented from becoming too dry.

Antihistamines may reduce itching as may ultraviolet light or sunlight. In many cases, tests are necessary to determine the cause; while these are in progress, treatment to provide symptomatic relief of pruritus may be given.

Topical treatment may include:

    * Calamine lotion
    * Menthol/camphor lotion
    * Regular use of emollients
    * Mild topical corticosteroids

Recovery from Pruritis

Most people experience some relief from itching within a week.  Complete cure usually comes within four to six weeks.

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