[56F] Experiencing severe itchiness and dizziness

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Dermatitis: This is a general term that describes an inflammation of the skin. Dermatitis can have many causes and occurs in many forms. It usually involves itchy, dry skin or a rash on swollen, reddened skin.

  • Treatment typically involves identifying and avoiding substances that irritate your skin, moisturizing your skin, and applying medicated creams or ointments.

• Psoriasis: This is a skin disease that causes red, itchy scaly patches, most commonly on the knees, elbows, trunk and scalp. Psoriasis is a common, long-term (chronic) disease with no cure. It tends to go through cycles, flaring for a few weeks or months, then subsiding for a while or going into remission.

  • Treatments include steroid creams, vitamin D3 cream, ultraviolet light, and immune system suppressing medications, such as methotrexate.

• Eczema: Also known as atopic dermatitis, is a condition that makes your skin red and itchy. It's common in children but can occur at any age. Atopic dermatitis is long lasting (chronic) and tends to flare periodically. It may be accompanied by asthma or hay fever.

  • Treatment for eczema includes avoiding soap and other irritants. Certain creams or ointments may also provide relief from the itching.

What you can do

1. Try to identify and avoid any triggers that worsen the inflammation. Triggers can include rough or coarse materials touching your skin, excessive heat or sweating, soaps, detergents, disinfectants, fruit and meat juices, dust mites, and animal saliva and danders.
2. Apply an over-the-counter cream or ointment containing hydrocortisone. A low-dose hydrocortisone cream may help with mild eczema. Prescription-strength steroids are also available if these aren't effective, but they should be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider as they can cause side effects.
3. Use a good moisturizer that contains ceramides. Ceramides are fats that naturally occur in skin and that play a key role in maintaining its barrier function. Look for over-the-counter skin-care products that list ceramides as one of the ingredients.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If your skin becomes infected, which can happen if you scratch at your skin. Signs of an infection include red streaks coming from the affected area, pus, or a yellowish-white coating over the skin.
• If your skin becomes so itchy that it's interfering with your sleep or daily activities.
• If home remedies and over-the-counter creams and ointments aren't helping.
• If you're experiencing any other symptoms, such as fever, weight loss, or fatigue.

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful health information, this is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for accurate information.