Pruritis, or itching of the skin, has multiple causes and treatments. Although an allergic reaction or dry skin is the most frequent cause of itching in seniors, an accurate diagnosis should be obtained before treatment is begun.
Depending upon the severity of symptoms, the three most common treatments for pruritis are topical ointments such as cortisone creams, sedating and non-sedating antihistamines as well as gentle but rigorous skin care. If topical ointments, antihistamines or corticosteroid treatments do not resolve the problem, ultraviolet light therapy may be helpful, according to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library.
Medications
Antibiotics, narcotic drugs, penicillin, antifungal medications and alcohol can cause a direct allergic reaction or can stimulate the release of histamines that cause itching. A reaction to prescription medications can occur at the onset of treatment or after taking the drug for some time.
Older adults frequently take several medications daily, which may make it difficult to determine the cause of itching symptoms. If pruritis is a side effect of medications, symptoms should subside when the drug is discontinued.
Disease
Chronic disorders such as diabetes mellitus, cancer and liver disease can cause itching, notes MayoClinic.com. Certain kinds of cancer and prescribed chemo or radiation therapies frequently cause generalized itching over the entire body. Scratch marks or unconscious scratching may be the only signs of itching, so a consultation with a doctor is appropriate if the itching does not subside within two days.
Dehydration
Older adults who do not drink enough water frequently have dry skin and can develop scaly lesions on areas of their body. Low humidity, an overheated or cooled environment, and excessive bathing dry the skin and are frequent causes of itching. Adequate water intake and the use of chemical free, topical lotions are first line defenses in maintaining healthy skin.
Allergies
Less than two percent of adults have diagnosed food allergies, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center or UMMC. Although it's uncommon to develop a food allergy in older age, exposure to chemicals in food additives and cleaning products are frequent causes of itching in people of all ages.
For older adults, the location and extent of an allergic reaction helps determine the cause of the itching. Contact dermatitis will usually subside when the offending product is eliminated. More serious reactions may require steroid treatment, advises the UMMC.
Vitamin Deficiencies
Vitamin deficiencies are not uncommon in older adults, and deficiencies in iron and zinc can cause itching. Rough, scaling skin may be a sign of a lack of vitamin C, advises the University of Maryland Medical Center. A supplement containing Omega 3 fatty acids may also help, according to the website Herbs200.com.
