Scratch dermatitis

Scratch dermatitis is a skin condition that results from frequent scratching of the skin. It is often associated with itching, which can be caused by a variety of conditions such as allergies, insect bites, eczema, and psoriasis. The constant scratching can lead to inflammation and damage to the skin, resulting in scratch dermatitis.

Causes

Scratch dermatitis can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common cause is chronic itching, which can be due to a number of conditions including allergies, insect bites, eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. Other causes can include stress, anxiety, and mental health conditions, which can lead to compulsive scratching.

Symptoms

The main symptom of scratch dermatitis is red, inflamed skin that has been scratched repeatedly. This can lead to the skin becoming thickened and leathery in appearance. Other symptoms can include itching, pain, swelling, and sometimes bleeding.

Treatment

Treatment for scratch dermatitis primarily involves addressing the underlying cause of the itching. This can involve using topical creams or ointments to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation, or taking antihistamines to control allergic reactions. In some cases, cognitive behavioral therapy may be recommended to help manage the compulsion to scratch.

Prevention

Prevention of scratch dermatitis involves managing any conditions that cause itching, and avoiding scratching the skin as much as possible. This can involve using moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated, wearing cotton clothing to reduce irritation, and keeping nails short to reduce the damage caused by scratching.

See also

• Dermatitis
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Allergies
• Insect bites

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