ITCHING

Itching is an uncomfortable and bothersome sensation that leads to compulsive scratching and accompanies the scar maturation process, most commonly in burns. It is related to the release of local factors that irritate peripheral nerves. It peaks around the sixth month after healing and its origin is multifactorial. Itching can limit quality of life, especially in children.

Treatment is based on routine measures, topical and general preparations. The available methods often need to be combined.

  • Routine measures

    • Dietary modification (no irritating foods)
    • cotton underwear
    • more frequent ventilation of the room
    • minimise overheating and sweating
    • limit bathing, prefer showering with lukewarm water (no more than 35 °C), use non-irritating soaps and cotton towels

  • Topical treatment

    • is based on intensive moisturizing (dry skin is more itchy), products with aloe vera are preferred
    • in acute cases cooling will help
    • massage also helps by reflex mechanism

  • Systemic treatment

    • Antihistamines and other medications (psychopharmaceuticals) prescribed by a specialist

    Manifestations of neuropathic scar pain are common and are related to chaotic nerve ingrowth into the scar. Treatment is usually pharmacological and should be carried out by a specialist. Common analgesics (e.g. ibuprofen) usually have little effect on reducing pain.