Itchy skin is painfully unpleasant, but what can you do? Causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of itchy skin: listen to your doctor's opinion. Generalized itching or itching all over the body

Itchy skin can cause such unpleasant sensations and an annoying urge to scratch the skin that it can drive a person to madness, especially if he has severe itchy skin.

Initially, skin itching begins to occur in the area of ​​nerves under the skin in the epidermis layer, where their endings are located. Further, through the innervation of nerve fibers, impulse signals enter the cerebral cortex. The whole principle of this process is explained by the work of the autonomic nervous system.

There are no specific receptors that perceive the sensation of itching in the skin. In the cerebral cortex, under the direct influence of accompanying emotions (boredom, anxiety, etc.) or various sensations on the skin, the feeling of itching can either increase or decrease.

As a rule, itchy skin cannot be an independent disease. It acts as the initial or one of the general symptoms of any underlying disease of the body.

Itchy skin causes

Itchy skin can be a symptom of both a systemic and a skin disease. Itchy skin can also be the cause of ordinary dry skin, which can appear during the season.

With localized itching of the skin, we can talk about various skin dermatoses. As a rule, with dermatoses, severe itching of the skin can be observed. Such diseases may be: fungal infections of the skin. This can also include itching of the skin in the anus (with hemorrhoids, proctitis, diabetes mellitus, poor personal hygiene, anal fissures, helminthic infestations, etc.). Itching of the skin in the genital area can be observed with human papillomavirus infection, estrogen deficiency, diabetes mellitus etc.

With generalized itching of the skin, itching without any special skin changes (scratching, rashes, erosions, etc.) is of great importance.

Itchy skin in older people may be an age-related change in dry skin. With age, the skin becomes thinner and the amount of moisture in it also decreases.

Generalized itching can occur with diabetes, with cancer, with e, with and.

Itching of the skin of the feet occurs primarily with fungal infections. may appear in places of the skin on the legs where some moisture may accumulate. For example, between the toes. Also, another common cause of itchy skin on the feet may be (the so-called sweating disorder, during which inflammation of the skin occurs). Itching of the skin of the legs can also be caused by hypothermia. Popularly, this condition is called “chills” - localized skin vasculitis.

Itching of the skin of the hands can be observed with various dermatoses. If present: urticaria, eczema, neurodermatitis. Also, itching of the skin of the hands is always observed with scabies, especially between the fingers. Chemicals, causing temperature changes, can also cause itching on the skin of the hands. This condition may also occur with or when taking certain medications.

Itchy skin in children is also a very common symptom with allergic dermatoses, seborrheic dermatitis, intestinal infections, helminthic infestations, etc.

Itchy skin symptoms

For the appearance of skin itching sensations, both its intensity and the properties of the irritant may matter. When an irritating substance initially causes itching of the skin, then as the intensity increases, the itching gives way to pain. Certain irritants (for example, quinine, morphine, arsenic, etc.) have the effect of causing skin itching, while some medications may not cause it.

It is also worth noting that in the perception of itching, as well as pain, the subjective element can be of great importance. All patients perceive skin itching differently, depending on the functional characteristics of their nervous system. A good diagnostic criterion for determining the nature of itching is excoriation, as a final component of scratching. Often there are patients who complain of severe itching of the skin, which deprives them of sleep, but during an in-person examination, as a rule, they do not find any scratching or may have minor excoriations. In other cases, if the patient has a lot of scratching, there are practically no complaints of itchy skin.

Neurotics and psychasthenics may complain of severe itching of the skin, without significant clinical signs. For them, such an exaggeration of sensations is quite typical. Removing neurosis through hypnosis leads to a weakening or disappearance of skin itching altogether, which is proof of this. Based on the location of skin itching, a distinction is made between limited and generalized nature of its location.

An example of localized skin itching may include itching of the hands, feet, and anal area. An example of generalized skin itching is senile itching (with dry skin or diabetes).

Itching of the skin and the characteristic scratching of the skin usually lead to visible changes in the skin. The skin can react to scratching either by spasm of blood vessels or by their dilation. As a result, vascular ischemia occurs with simultaneous tissue edema. Often itching of the skin goes away along with an urticarial reaction, which is characterized by vasospasm and their expansion along the periphery of the vesicle, which can form with skin itching.

Prolonged itching of the skin can lead to the appearance of papules, excoriations, lichenification, and often eczematization of the skin. When these clinical manifestations appear, the disease should already be regarded as.

Itchy scalp

When the scalp itches, the first thing that comes to mind is the presence of lice or head lice. With pediculosis, itching of the scalp is localized most of all at the site of nit attachment (behind the ears, under the bangs, on the back of the head). The itching from lice is very debilitating. Their nits can be seen in the form of dandruff, but at the same time they have a shiny surface, are quite difficult to remove from the hair, and when you press on it with your nails, a peculiar click is heard, as if it is bursting.

Seborrhea can also act as another common culprit for itchy scalp. The cause of seborrhea is a change in the function of the sebaceous glands. It can be oily, dry or mixed. Often, seborrhea can cause severe flaking of the scalp, which is called dandruff. This disease is difficult to cure on your own. Treatment consists of consulting a specialist, following a diet and prescribing appropriate medications.

An itchy scalp may occur after frequently changing shampoos or hair masks. To select a suitable hair care product, it is best to contact a trichologist - a hair specialist.

Severe dryness of the scalp can also cause itching. To do this, experts recommend using special moisturizing shampoos and hair products.

About a quarter of patients suffering from jaundice complain of severe itching of the skin of the body. This itching may be due to intrahepatic cholestasis. It is observed in 25% of patients with hepatitis and 15% of patients with cirrhosis.

Itching of the body skin is present in almost all patients with primary biliary cirrhosis and can act as the first symptom, appearing several years earlier than other signs of the disease.

Generalized itching of the skin of the body during pregnancy is observed for more than 6 months and disappears after the birth of the child. Therefore, expectant mothers should not be particularly concerned about this unpleasant symptom, since this is a temporary phenomenon.

Certain medications can make the skin of the body itchy. These include: Erythromycin, Phenothiazines, anabolic steroids and estrogens. In case of taking contraceptives, in half of the cases, skin itching begins already in the first month of use. The risk of this side effect from birth control is much higher in women who have experienced itchy skin during pregnancy.

Half of patients with polycythymia vera suffer from generalized itching of the skin, which always intensifies after taking hot baths.

Itching of the body skin occurs in a third of patients and always means the first symptom of the disease.

And systemic mastocytosis can be accompanied by itching of the skin throughout the body, in the absence of skin scratching. Moreover, in such patients, itching begins long before the onset of anemia.

It also manifests itself as generalized itching of the skin of the body. Itching in this case appears due to increased activity of kinins along with an increase in skin temperature.

When it occurs, dry skin is observed, which can cause itching.

Addicts who inject heroin have chronic itching of the skin of the body.

A separate form of body skin itching is altitude itching. It occurs in a small number of people when climbing to altitudes of 10 km and above.

In diabetes mellitus, localized itching of the skin of the body occurs. It can be either in one area of ​​the body, or in several at once.

With scabies, a disease of infectious origin, which is transmitted by contact, there is itching of the skin of the body with the appearance of scabies on the surface of the skin. The causative agent of this disease is the scabies mite. Scabies begins with rashes and severe itching between the fingers, in the wrist area and in the abdomen. When making a diagnosis, scrapings are taken from the affected areas of the skin.

With neurodermatitis, which can be classified as an inflammatory process, redness is observed in the bend of the elbows and knees. Later, severe itching of the skin in the affected areas occurs.

Itchy facial skin

When itching of the skin of the face, the cause of its occurrence, first of all, may be an allergic reaction. In this case, the facial skin may be red, and the patient may experience a feeling of heat. The reasons for its occurrence may be intolerance to any foods and/or medications.

In children, facial itching may be due to lactose intolerance. Women and young girls may have an allergic reaction to decorative cosmetics, which also manifests itself in itchy skin in the cheeks, eyes and mouth. Especially with intolerance to anti-aging creams, up to swelling of the eyelids.

Dry facial skin can also cause itchy skin. To prevent it, you need to use hypoallergenic creams with a moisturizing effect. Also, when using facial toners, dryness may occur. In this case, you should refuse them.

Some people may develop itchy facial skin due to temperature changes and climatic influences. That is, there may be a reaction to cold, to wind, to heat. And often such susceptibility to the external environment occurs in those people who suffer from anemia or hypothyroidism.

Certain medications can also cause discomfort on the facial skin in the form of itching. In addition to itching, such reactions can be combined with hyperemia and swelling of the facial skin. If such signs occur, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Jaundice may also cause facial itching and swelling. In this case, after scratching the skin, characteristic whitish scratches may remain. In diabetes mellitus, this phenomenon is also often observed.

The appearance of various types of dermatoses is always accompanied by itching of the facial skin. But, as a rule, they are combined with various rashes on the skin. This is especially true for atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis.

Itchy skin treatment

The lack of knowledge in the field of pathophysiology of skin itching explains the difficulty in choosing the optimal treatment option. The main focus of various therapeutic measures in the event of skin itching should be therapy of the underlying disease. In addition, provoking factors should be eliminated, for example: dry skin, contact with various irritants, actions to degrease the skin (use of tonics), eating certain foods (spicy foods, spices, alcoholic drinks), as well as temperature changes in the environment. environment. It is necessary to exclude long-term use of potential allergic drugs (local anesthetics), as well as Doxepin, which is successfully used for atopic dermatitis of the skin, but due to its chemical formula and due to an increase in T-cell activity, it has a high degree of sensitization.

Related measures such as avoidance of stressful situations, autogenic training, psychological assistance, appropriate clothing, and the use of wet wraps can alleviate itching.

Depending on the underlying disease, it is considered important to include in therapy corticosteroids, anesthetics (Phenol, Menthol, Camphor, Polidocanol), Resorcinol, Clioquenol, tar in different bases. Electrical transcutaneous neurostimulation or acupuncture therapy is used as a supportive measure. The use of Capsaicin, which is an alkaloid extracted from pepper, gives good results in the treatment of itchy skin.

When treating itchy skin, there are three main aspects to consider. Firstly, this is a causal approach, in which the causative agent of the disease is destroyed. If this is not possible or diagnosing the pathogen is difficult, then attempts can be made to alleviate the symptoms by influencing the release of mediators that cause itching of the skin.

For itchy skin with mental and neurotic disorders, psychohypnosis with the elimination of stressful aggressors or tranquilizer therapy is a good therapy.

In therapeutic practice, for a number of diseases and for many pathological processes with skin itching of an unknown nature, it is impossible to cure the underlying disease. In such cases, therapy is begun to alleviate skin itching either by influencing the principles of operation of mediators in free nerve endings or on a specific organ, or by modulating the transition of itching along the central and peripheral nerve pathways.

Histamine, under pathological and experimental conditions, acts as the only reliably identified transmitter of skin itching. Therefore, with a large number of diseases that are caused by mast cells, itchy skin and rashes in the form of papules can be cured with antihistamines. Outdated antihistamine drugs, which have a general sedative effect, are not much different in their effect on skin itching and blistering rashes from modern non-sedative drugs.

Non-sedating antihistamines completely cure skin itching in more than half of patients with chronic urticaria, and in the remaining patients they contribute to its good suppression. In most studies with normal controls, patients with eczema show no absolute response to different antihistamines. Antihistamines, which also influence the transition of mediators from mast cells and the migration of eosinophils, on the contrary, show good effectiveness in atopic dermatitis of the skin (Loratadine, Cetirizine).

So, antihistamines are divided into: ineffective or not effective in treating skin itching in the case of eczema. Antihistamines with local therapeutic action for the same diseases have a limited effect and should be avoided due to potential contact sensitization when treating children.

The weak effect of antihistamines in various inflammatory dermatoses contrasts with the sharp reaction of skin itching to glucocorticosteroids; even along with the manifestations of skin itching, other criteria of inflammation are suppressed. If there are no contraindications, corticosteroids are used systemically for acute diseases (acute contact eczema, acute urticaria, etc.). In chronic processes, on the contrary, they have contraindications.

A method such as photochemotherapy can eliminate itchy skin in certain diseases that are caused by inflammation and the action of mast cells. Cyclosporine A can be used in small dosages (5 mg per kg of body weight) for urticaria, atopic dermatitis of the skin, and skin eczema. It softens the manifestations of skin itching, but after its discontinuation, a relapse of the disease may occur. And it is also nephrotoxic, which means it has a negative effect on the kidneys and the liver.

In intrahepatic cholestasis, with a decrease in endogenous bile acids in the blood serum, namely cholic acid, as a result of therapy with Ursodeoxycholic acid or Cholestyramine, chronic skin itching, along with alkaline phosphatase, is significantly reduced. According to available data, cholestatic diseases in children and adults respond well to Rifampicin, although its high likelihood of side effects, relative cross-reaction with other drugs and the relatively high cost of treatment must be taken into account. A good effect is achieved with the simultaneous use of Cholestyramine and ultraviolet radiation. Morphine antagonists (Nalmefene, Nalaxone) and plasmapheresis also help quite well. Surgical interventions, for example, drainage of bile fluid - stoma, liver transplantation for certain indications, significantly improve the symptoms of itchy skin.

When treating skin itching, along with general modulating measures, it is important to relieve the inflammatory process. It is important to suppress T-cell infiltration with the subsequent release of mediators from inflammatory mast cells into the layers of the epidermis. Xerosis in atopic dermatitis seems to be another important point for treatment and requires the use of drugs that tend to bind water. Therefore, it is important to prescribe urea, as well as tar, which eliminates itching and reduces lichenification and hyperproliferation of keratinocytes.

Skin itching during acute inflammation and chronic atopic dermatitis must be treated differently. Subacute forms can be treated with UV irradiation, but sometimes UV irradiation can lead to a decrease in itching and inflammation in the acute form. When antihistamines are used, it is important to take them in the evening.

Treatment of concomitant diseases is recommended for patients with itchy skin. A diet is prescribed with the exclusion of individual trophoallergens: meat broth, egg whites, spices, chocolate, sweets, alcoholic beverages; The consumption of table salt, canned and smoked foods is limited. Products of lactic acid and vegetable origin can be used.

Sedative medications (Valerian, motherwort tincture and tranquilizers) may be indicated as symptomatic treatment; antihistamines (Suprastin, Diazolin, Fenkarol, Loratadine, Erolin); desensitizing drugs (calcium preparations, Hemodez, sodium thiosulfate); anesthetic drugs (1% Trimecaine solution, 0.5% Novocaine solution); enterosorbents (Activated carbon, Belosorb, Polysorb and Polyphepan).

The following can be used topically: powders, aqueous and alcoholic solutions, pastes, shaken suspensions, ointments. Antipruritic, local effects have certain compositions: 1-2% thymol; 0.5-2.0% menthol; 1-2% phenol (carbolic acid); 1-2% anesthesin; 1-2% citric acid solution; alcohols (1-2% salicylic, 1-2% resorcinol, 30-70% ethyl; camphor); infusions of herbs and chamomile. In the absence of a therapeutic effect, itchy skin areas can be lubricated with glucocorticosteroid creams (Elocom, Lokoid, Flucinar, Advantan, Fluorocort). But they should not be used for too long a period of time (about a week on average).

Baths with hydrogen sulfide also have an antipruritic effect; baths with a decoction of string and oak bark; baths with sea salt, pine extract, starch; sea ​​bathing. The water temperature should be about 38°C, the duration of the procedure is about 20 minutes, a course of 10 baths.

Also shown: electrosleep, hypnosis, laser puncture, acupuncture, magnetic therapy, biorhythm reflexotherapy, phonophoresis with hydrocortisone.

Retinoids in patients with atopic dermatitis may cause skin itching instead of eliminating it. With lichen planus, skin itching goes away within a week even with small doses (Isotretenoin or Etretinate 10 mg per day). Skin symptoms such as rashes, on the other hand, may not respond to medications.

When treating widespread skin itching in the perianal area, you first need to eliminate the nature of the disease and normalize personal hygiene of the anal area. In your diet, you should avoid irritating foods: spices and citrus fruits. Injection therapy with 5% Phenol in almond oil under the skin of the distal anus may also be recommended. In most cases, this method gives complete recovery.

If the causes of skin itching are unknown, then measures are taken simply to reduce it. These include, firstly, regular skin care with moisturizing cosmetics and medicinal products; this applies more to older people. Maintaining personal hygiene and at the same time a noticeable reduction in water procedures can also help reduce skin itching.

It is very difficult to answer the question of why there is itching and itching in the vagina. And first of all, because unpleasant sensations are just one symptom from a number of accompanying ones that represent the clinical picture. It is a mistake to think that a problem can arise only if you do not maintain hygiene and lead a rather promiscuous sex life. In fact, this is a nightmare for absolutely every representative of the fair half of humanity. A pubescent woman, a blooming girl, a little girl, an elderly lady - everyone can encounter it, only for different reasons.

Severe itching and itching inside the vagina

Typically, women experience itching and burning in the vaginal area, not only inside, but also on the surface of the skin. Moreover, in some cases it spreads to the labia and. All together this causes discomfort, causes anxiety, and knocks you out of the usual rhythm of life. The person becomes angry, anxious, and loses concentration. Sometimes the problem worsens at night, leading to insomnia.

Of course, the symptom cannot be ignored, but the most important thing is to find out why it appeared.

Advice. If you encounter irritating sensations near or inside the vagina, you need to analyze what could have triggered them. What lifestyle have you led lately, what have you eaten, who have you had intimate relationships with, etc. This information will help you see a possible connection and help your doctor make a diagnosis faster.

It is important for every girl, adult or elderly woman to understand one thing: - one of the signs of a huge variety of diseases and disorders, among which there are both quite harmless and life-threatening.

Advice. We will talk about some medications and offer folk remedies. However, if all else fails and you still have severe itching and itching around your vagina, we strongly recommend that you seek specialized help. Games with health lead to sad consequences, which sometimes even modern medicine cannot cope with.

Well, now let's figure out what can cause this unpleasant symptom.

Itching and burning in the vagina

Often, irritation and burning in such a delicate place is part of a whole range of symptoms. It very rarely arises on its own, in almost every case it speaks of more serious problems. Here are the main reasons why itching and burning occurs in the vagina. Note that all of them are conditionally divided into three groups, within which further division occurs: gynecological in nature, pathological conditions and background diseases of the body, and other irritants. First things first.

Gynecological disorders and diseases

Experts distinguish two large subgroups:

1. Inflammatory processes in the female organs: ovaries, uterus, appendages and the vagina itself. Typically, such diseases are caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. For example, thrush. It occurs when the balance of normal microflora on the vaginal mucosa is disrupted, and harmful fungi flourish. It is accompanied by the release of flakes similar to curdled milk, an unpleasant odor reminiscent of mold, and painful sensations during sexual intercourse. This group also includes various colpitis, vaginitis, vulvitis, endometritis, etc. STDs are also from here. You can encounter such a misfortune during unprotected sexual intercourse. Almost all sexually transmitted infections are quite difficult to treat and are accompanied by a whole range of the most unpleasant symptoms: itching, pain and itching near the entrance to the vagina in women, rash, swelling, wounds, etc. Let's name just a few diseases: chlamydia, genital herpes, condylomas, human papillomavirus (HPV), ureaplasmosis, trichomoniasis, etc. These also include such dangerous ones as AIDS, syphilis, gonorrhea, which are known to have a severe course, and some lead to death.
2. Muscle atrophy, as well as possible tumor processes. Another large subgroup of causes that cause itching and itching inside the vagina. As a rule, they are unfamiliar to young women, arise with age and are closely related to hormonal disorders. These are atrophy of the mucous membrane, vaginal kraurosis, urogenital fistulas (formations that occur after surgery on the genital organs). The subgroup also includes various benign and malignant tumor processes.

However, not only gynecological problems can cause irritation. Let's talk about the second group - background diseases and pathological conditions of the body.

Somatic diseases leading to burning sensation

The walls of the vagina are covered with mucous membrane, which also suffers from any disturbances within the body. It begins to dry out, becomes thinner, and is attacked by harmful bacteria, which normally do not bother you. Answering the question why it itches inside the vagina, we can name the following diseases:

If we talk about diseases that cause this symptom, they are limited to the listed two groups. But there are other reasons.

Why does it itch and itch inside the vagina?

There are so many risk factors that only a doctor can definitely say why the vagina itches after a personal examination and history, as well as after the necessary laboratory tests.

Diagnosis is further complicated by the fact that a third group is added to the listed two groups - which is in no way related to diseases and pathologies.

Itching in the vagina: causes not related to diseases

Causes of itching in the vagina can be, for example, allergic reactions to any irritant that has entered the body or found itself in the external environment. Many women have individual intolerance to certain foods, but it’s not always just them. Allergies and irritation can be caused by synthetic underwear, incorrectly selected intimate care products, or regular soap that a girl uses to wash herself. Often many people think that they are itching inside, but in fact the problem is concentrated only on the outside.

Another point is special female conditions: a certain period of the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, breastfeeding, entering menopause and menopause. It is important to understand one more thing: often unpleasant sensations are caused by incorrectly selected hormonal pills or contraceptive suppositories.

Advice. If you decide to use female contraceptives, in particular pills, injections or suppositories, consult a gynecologist and endocrinologist. Such drugs contain hormones, and it is better to choose them wisely than to experience health problems later.

This group of factors also includes: improper diets that depress the general condition of the body, an unhealthy lifestyle and bad habits (alcohol, as is known, dries out the mucous membranes), non-compliance with or ignorance of the basic rules of intimate hygiene.
We have described a whole range of reasons that influence the appearance of the symptom. How to fight the disease and how to treat it? Again, only a specialist will give a definite answer, but we will consider the question in general.

Itching in the vagina: treatment

Treatment of vaginal itching almost always involves an integrated approach. The doctor will start by identifying the causes of the problem, tell you what tests you will need to take and what is needed for an accurate diagnosis, determine what is happening to you, and only then prescribe the necessary medications. However, everyone understands that people often turn to a doctor when they have already exhausted ways to cure themselves. This is a wrong approach that threatens your health. We strongly discourage unauthorized prescribing of medications and taking courses of pills. The safest thing you can do to help yourself and alleviate the condition is folk remedies. Take and use all other medications only after prescription by a specialist.

How to treat vaginal itching, and what to do if it itches a lot? Douching with chamomile decoction, carried out daily, will help. Instead of this herb, you can take a mixture of calendula and stinging nettle. You can wash the vagina with a soda solution, and at night insert tampons moistened with melted cocoa and fir oils, cooled to human body temperature. Baths with copper sulfate will be useful. People advise lubricating the affected areas with sea buckthorn oil, and at night using a tampon soaked in this substance.

The safest medications are: Ginocomfort gels, Fluconazole and Pimafucin, drugs with antibiotic action such as Acyclovir or Diflucan. Often, the doctor prescribes a medicine that restores the microflora: Ovestin, Acylact, etc. Do not forget that usually the sexual partner also has to be treated. Now you know everything about the disease: why it can appear and how to get rid of vaginal itching before getting help from a specialist. Well, our portal wishes every woman good health, mutual love and a great mood!
Watch the video for a complete picture of the problem:

Itching in the vagina- this is an unpleasant specific sensation in the vagina. Itching in the vagina can be due to physiological reasons, appear and disappear on its own. Sometimes, to overcome discomfort in the genital area, it is enough to resort to simple rules of personal hygiene, change your diet, or refuse to wear tight underwear or underwear made of synthetic materials.

It is perhaps difficult to find many women who have not encountered this unpleasant sensation at least once (and more often, much more) in their lives. Every year, about 10% of gynecological patients visit the doctor's office, whose leading complaint is itching in the genital area (vagina and vulva).

Slight itching in the vagina before menstruation in healthy women can be due to physiological reasons and does not require drug correction. Pathological itching of the genital organs is part of a complex of symptoms of a large number of gynecological diseases or may accompany extragenital pathology.

The most common factors that provoke the feeling of itching in the vagina include general or local inflammatory and infectious processes and allergic reactions, as well as structural changes during the decline of hormonal function in elderly patients.

The skin and mucous membranes of the vulva and vagina are supplied with a large number of nerve endings. They are located shallowly and react to any mechanical or chemical influence of external or internal factors. The itching sensation is a reaction to such irritations. It may appear as:

- local itching that occurs directly at the site of exposure to the provoking factor and, as a rule, quickly disappears after its elimination;

- extensive (diffused) itching, spreading far beyond the primary focus of irritation of the nerve endings and causing changes in the skin and mucous membranes over a large area.

Clinical manifestations of itching of the vulva and vagina will be more pronounced, the larger the area of ​​​​the “damage”.

The intensity of itching varies widely: the patient may only be bothered by a slight itching in the vagina and/or skin of the external genitalia, and sometimes it becomes unbearable and forces her to seek medical help. Genital itching can be constant or episodic; it often appears at night and is accompanied by neurotic disorders. The disease can last a very long time and cannot always be cured in a short time.

Treatment of itching of the vagina and vulva is based on the treatment of the disease that caused it. Often, in order to find its exact cause (and sometimes there are several of them), a large complex of diagnostic measures is required, including not only gynecological examinations.

With the right therapeutic tactics, the disease can be eliminated. Relapses of genital itching are common and are associated with relapses of the underlying disease.

Causes of vaginal itching

Itching of the vagina and vulva is not always associated with serious pathological causes. Sometimes poor hygiene (or lack thereof) contributes to the excessive proliferation of unwanted microorganisms in the vulva and vagina, which can cause itching. Mechanical irritation of the skin of the vulva by tight underwear causes local mechanical damage (abrasions, irritation), and underwear made of synthetic fibers does not allow the skin to “breathe,” preventing the evaporation of sweat, and also provokes itching.

Increased sweating in the skin of the intimate area contributes to local irritation and itching in the vagina. This happens in hot weather or in winter if you have to wear warm, thick clothing.

Aggressive or irritating chemicals included in intimate hygiene products (soap, gel, etc.) can provoke a local allergic reaction accompanied by itching.

Itching in the vagina, which appears after intimacy, occurs due to vaginal trauma due to insufficient amount of vaginal mucus (“lubrication”).

Unpleasant sensations in the genital area, discomfort and itching can accompany hormonal dysfunction in the body. Physiological itching in the vagina before menstruation is caused by changes in the hormonal function of the ovaries and fluctuations in the composition of the normal vaginal microflora.

Itching in the genital area can appear due to stress in absolutely healthy women. Stress changes skin sensitivity and distorts the response of nerve endings located in the genital area.

As a rule, physiological causes provoke moderate, short-lived genital itching, which lasts no more than three days.

The causes of pathological itching in the vagina depend on several factors. One of them is the patient's age. In children, itching in the vaginal and vulvar areas accompanies inflammatory diseases () often of nonspecific etiology. Inflammation can arise in the vulva and ascend into the vagina, or develop primarily in the vagina and descend to the tissue of the vulva. Also, genital itching in children can be caused by poor personal hygiene, the presence of foreign bodies in the vagina, worms or urinary tract infections. Local or general allergic diseases and infections in children provoke itching in the genital area much less frequently.

Much less often in children, itching in the genital area can be directly related to local and general allergic diseases and childhood infections.

Any undesirable changes in the vagina occur against the background of changes in the constancy of the acid-base balance. In the vagina of healthy women, the pH level varies between 3.8 – 4.4, that is, the environment is acidic. The constancy of the environment is maintained by lactobacilli, which produce lactic acid. The acidic environment does not allow pathogenic flora to multiply and prevents the development of inflammation. If the acidity changes, pathogenic microflora begins to multiply, displacing lactobacilli and creating favorable conditions for the development of infection.

In adult women, among the causes of genital itching, infectious and inflammatory diseases of the genital tract, both specific and nonspecific, come first. In such diseases, itching is accompanied by pathological discharge (leucorrhoea), which contains a large number of pathogenic bacteria that irritate the vaginal mucosa and cause itching. Of the specific pathogens, itching in the vagina is most often caused by Trichomonas.

The most common cause of severe genital itching is a fungal infection of the mucous membranes of the vulva and vagina (“” or candidiasis). Candidiasis is one of the most common complications of pregnancy.

Short-term slight itching in the vagina most often implies an infectious-inflammatory process.

In older women, itching in the vagina and vulva is associated with degenerative processes in the tissues of the genital organs against the background of fading hormonal function of the ovaries. Tissue atrophy during this period contributes to the development of inflammatory processes. A decrease in estrogen levels provokes a change in the vaginal microflora against the background of a decrease in the number of lactobacilli and an increase in pH (acidity) of the environment. In addition, advanced age in healthy women may itself be a cause of itchy skin (senile pruritus).

Dystrophic diseases of the vulva (kraurosis, leukoplakia, lichen sclerosus) damage the nerve endings of the external genitalia and are almost always accompanied by genital itching.

Itching of the vagina and vulva is provoked by non-gynecological diseases - urinary tract diseases (cystitis, urethritis), endocrine disorders, allergic and skin diseases, mental illness or neuroses.

Symptoms of vaginal itching

When the first signs of discomfort or itching in the area of ​​the external genitalia and vagina appear, women do not seek to see a doctor and try to cope with the problem on their own. They often succeed, and such symptoms never return. If symptoms of genital itching persist or worsen after three days of onset, you should seek professional help.

Diagnosis of the causes of itching of the vulva and vagina begins with a detailed conversation with the patient. Often, a woman can clearly indicate the situation after which genital itching appeared - taking medications, using a new cosmetic hygiene product, stress, and so on. If itching is accompanied by atypical discharge, a burning sensation, pain during sexual intercourse, the presence of an inflammatory process in the vagina can be assumed, and if these symptoms occur after unprotected sexual intercourse, they may indicate the presence of a specific sexually transmitted infection.

Sometimes inflammatory itching in the vagina is combined with a burning sensation or discomfort when urinating. Such symptoms are associated with the spread of inflammation to the urethra.

Often itching in the vaginal area accompanies diabetes mellitus, pathology of the biliary and/or urinary tract. Typically, patients are informed that they have such diseases or have already had a history of episodes of vaginal itching. In this case, further examination should be carried out jointly with doctors of related specialties.

Intensity and duration are of great clinical importance in diagnosing the causes of vaginal itching. Itching can occur periodically or bother a woman constantly, intensify at night, and be accompanied by pain. A short-term episode of vaginal itching indicates a possible infectious process.

Patients with vaginal itching appear anxious and nervous, especially if the symptoms of vaginal itching are severe or haunt them at night.

A gynecological examination of a patient with vaginal itching helps to determine the presence of inflammation and/or infection and to study the nature of the discharge. With inflammation of the vagina (vaginitis), hyperemia and thickening of the mucous membrane of its walls are visible, as well as an increase in the amount of discharge. The nature of the discharge varies from clear or whitish to purulent, sometimes it has an unpleasant odor. With candidiasis, the discharge is abundant and has a specific cheesy appearance.

In postmenopausal women, slight itching in the vagina and/or vulva area is accompanied by a feeling of dryness or burning. The decrease in vaginal discharge in this age group is associated with physiological reasons. Upon examination, the vaginal mucosa looks atrophic (thin and pale), there is very little discharge, such mucosa is easily injured and does not cope well with local inflammation.

In all patients with genital itching, it is necessary to study the composition of the vaginal microflora, especially in the presence of heavy, uncharacteristic discharge. For this purpose, smears and cultures from the vagina are studied. If a specific process is suspected, tests for sexually transmitted infections are prescribed.

Significant assistance in determining the nature of changes in the vagina is provided by express diagnostics of the pH of the vaginal environment using special indicator strips. Deviations of the pH value from the norm are a sign of trouble.

Vaginal itching during pregnancy

Genital itching that occurs during pregnancy may have causes similar to those outside pregnancy:

- violation of hygiene rules: during pregnancy, the amount of physiological vaginal discharge may be increased, this requires additional hygiene procedures;

— allergic reactions to food, household chemicals, cosmetics, medications and much more;

- neurotic disorders associated with fear of childbirth or caused by quantitative hormonal changes;

- sexually transmitted infections, for example;

— extragenital pathology (endocrine and dishormonal disorders);

- uncomfortable, tight underwear, especially made from synthetic fibers;

- climatic factor: too hot weather, causing excessive sweating in the genital area, or low winter air temperatures, forcing you to wear a lot of warm clothes;

- excessive amounts of salts in the urine, which irritate the vulva area when urinating, and subsequently inflammation can spread to the vaginal mucosa.

Sometimes the cause itself provokes itching in the vulva and vagina. It should be noted that pregnancy is not always a pathology. Changing hormone levels affect the elasticity of the skin; as the size of the abdomen and chest increases, areas of stretching form on the skin, which can cause itchy skin, including the genital area.

Such physiological phenomena must be distinguished from manifestations of toxicosis in the second half of pregnancy. An increase in the amount of estrogen in the blood of a pregnant woman leads to changes in the functioning of the liver and biliary system. Excessive production of bile acids and their stagnation (cholestasis) lead to skin itching, and sometimes itching in the vaginal area. To confirm this cause of genital itching, special tests are performed - liver function tests.

The most common cause of vaginal itching in pregnant patients is vaginal candidiasis. Vaginal candidiasis in pregnant women occurs three times more often than in non-pregnant women and is important in obstetric practice. It is an inflammatory process of the mucous membranes caused by excessive proliferation of a fungal infection (Candida fungi) in the vagina against the background of a physiological decrease in the number of lactobacilli. Fungal flora is detected during examination in every third pregnant woman. It cannot be called a harmless infection, since it is its fault that intrauterine infection of the fetus occurs and complications arise during pregnancy and childbirth. Diagnosis of candidiasis is quite simple: a simple test for the presence of fungal flora in the vagina, even in the absence of clear clinical symptoms, allows you to make the correct diagnosis.

Severe itching in the vagina

The intensity of vaginal itching is not a valuable diagnostic criterion, because it relates to the subjective sensations of the patient and depends on the individual reaction of the skin and mucous membranes to irritation. Some patients characterize even minor manifestations of discomfort in the genital area as significant.

However, patients with vulvar kraurosis, vulvovaginal candidiasis and trichomoniasis most often complain of intense itching in the vulva and vagina.

Kraurosis of the vulva develops in postmenopausal women and is associated with ovarian hypofunction. Under the influence of hormonal depletion, atrophic changes in the vulva occur, causing itching. The process, as a rule, does not spread to the vagina and is localized exclusively outside.

Trichomonas colpitis causes a short-term feeling of intense itching in the vagina and is accompanied by copious pus-like discharge with an unpleasant odor reminiscent of fish. A distinctive feature of trichomoniasis discharge is its watery, “foamy” appearance. The appearance of such symptoms is preceded by unprotected sexual intercourse.

The most common cause of severe vaginal itching is vaginal candidiasis (“thrush”). In some cases, itching is the only symptom. As a rule, itching with candidiasis is constant and intensifies in the evening or at night. Often such itching causes insomnia and neurotic disorders. Diagnosing a fungal infection in the vagina is not difficult. Characteristic symptoms are abundant, thick with an admixture of white “crumbs” or “flakes”, as well as whitish deposits on the surface of the mucous membrane of the vulva and vagina. In the acute stage of inflammation, mechanical removal of plaque is accompanied by damage to the mucous membranes and bleeding.

Candidiasis can occur in a mild and chronic form. The less pathological process is present in the vagina, the fewer symptoms it causes. This disease tends to recur.

Treatment for vaginal itching

Isolated treatment of vaginal itching is not carried out due to ineffectiveness - if the true cause of genital itching is not eliminated, it will reappear.

In some cases, itching in the vaginal area is not the result of a serious pathology and can be eliminated on its own without medical intervention. For example, if unpleasant sensations in the vagina appeared after using a new hygiene product, to eliminate them it is enough not to use this product anymore. Before menstruation, itching in the vaginal area requires additional hygiene procedures, and if it appears after intimacy, you need to think about additional “lubrication.”

Traditional medicine helps eliminate the phenomenon of genital itching caused by physiological reasons. Sitz baths or douching are used with herbal decoctions that have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties (chamomile, calendula, etc.). If the cause of the disease is a stressful situation, the use of infusions and decoctions of valerian, motherwort or peony internally will help cope with vaginal itching.

If the symptoms of itching do not disappear on their own within three to four days, it is necessary to establish its exact cause and select the necessary treatment. Therapy is prescribed individually after a complete examination.

In case of inflammatory and infectious processes, adequate general and local antibacterial therapy should be carried out. Vaginal itching in elderly patients requires the use of anti-inflammatory and hormonal agents. A fungal infection requires the use of antifungal drugs.

For local treatment, agents are used in the form of ointments, suppositories, creams or douching solutions. Systemic drugs (tablets) are used in the most difficult cases.

Vaginal itching due to extragenital pathology requires treatment of the underlying disease by a therapist.

09 Sep 2015

Intimate itching - discomfort in the perineum and genital area. It constrains a woman and causes anxiety. When scratching, a burning sensation and swelling occurs, aggravating the condition. Women should not hope to stop the itching on their own. If basic hygiene measures and simple antiseptics do not eliminate the symptoms, consultation with a gynecologist is necessary to avoid infection of the delicate skin and vaginal mucosa.

What does itching in intimate places mean in women?

Itching occurs due to irritation of nerve endings. This is how the body signals problems. Itching occurs both in girls, young women and women, as well as in old age. Without treatment, the problem gradually gets worse. It may take 2-3 hours or 1-5 days from mild discomfort in the intimate area to the development of unbearable itching. During the development of pathology, women become nervous, distracted at work, fidgeting in their chairs, and prefer to quickly complete a walk or postpone a shopping trip. Even at rest (sitting on the couch, lying down), unpleasant symptoms do not go away, often leading to insomnia. Often, itching and burning in the intimate area are mild and appear periodically. For years, suffering women consider this condition to be the norm.

The resulting burning sensation and intimate itching is a condition that always indicates developing problems with women's health, and therefore requires the attention of a gynecologist.

Causes of intimate itching, symptoms and specific treatment

There are many factors (external, internal) that provoke burning. The clinical picture and measures taken to eliminate itching depend on the cause of the discomfort. Listed below are common diseases, their characteristic symptoms and appropriate therapy.

Thrush

Candidiasis (fungal infection of the genital organs) is a common cause of itching, detected in 95% of women. Occurs due to hypothermia against the background of reduced immunity, after antibiotics (long-term or short-term administration of loading doses). A characteristic picture of acute thrush:

• redness of the labia minora and the vestibule of the vagina;
• severe itching in the intimate area;
• discharge with the smell of rotten fish (appears when a bacterial infection - gardnerellosis) is attached;
• curdled consistency of discharge.

Without treatment, the symptoms gradually subside, the itching becomes unnoticeable, and the flaky white discharge is replaced by liquid discharge. But temporary improvement does not mean recovery.

Treatment is carried out by a gynecologist after laboratory confirmation of candidiasis. With chronic thrush, a vaginal smear may not reveal the fungus, only showing an increase in the level of white blood cells.

Therapy is carried out with antifungal drugs. Fluconazole and its synonyms are often prescribed at a dose of 500 mg on the 1st, 4th, 7th day. Next, sprays are used, for example Epigen, to normalize the vaginal microflora and increase local immunity.

Both sexual partners are treated for thrush at the same time. Men experience virtually no discomfort with candidiasis, but they also need to undergo a course of therapy. For this, antifungal ointments (Clotrimazole, etc.) are prescribed.

Sexual intercourse during the therapeutic course is allowed only with a condom.

Hygiene errors

Often, itching is caused by improper care of the intimate area. Lack or poor intimate hygiene (especially in hot weather for obese women), excessive sweating provokes redness and itching in the intimate area. Synthetic and tight underwear interferes with skin breathing (causes abrasions on the inner thighs). Helps relieve discomfort:

• washing the irritated area with warm water and baby soap;
• rubbing with a weak solution of Furacilin;
• washing with chamomile decoction.

Improper shaving often provokes irritation (redness and red spots):

• against hair growth;
• shaving on dry skin;
• hair removal with a dull blade;
• excessive razor pressure.

Scratching leads to the appearance of small purulent blisters at the site of hair growth. To prevent irritation in the intimate area, you should use special lotions or baby powder (talc) after shaving.

An immutable rule: intimate hygiene should be carried out at least 2-3 times a day.

Allergy. Gels, widely advertised intimate hygiene products and vaginal contraceptive pills (Pharmatex, Patentex oval, etc.) often cause allergies. Redness, swelling and severe itching appear after using a new product and disappear on their own after stopping it. Antihistamines are rarely required. Local contraceptive pills and suppositories are suitable for women with irregular sex life. Their frequent use is undesirable.

Sexual infections

Infectious diseases often have mild symptoms when the itching is mild.

1. Chlamydia and ureoplasma usually develop without discharge, and a slight burning sensation is often the only symptom.
2. Genital herpes causes severe itching and watery, painful blisters.
3. Gonorrhea often occurs latently in women, while trichomoniasis, on the contrary, gives a vivid picture with a characteristic brownish discharge.

Treatment of infectious pathologies is carried out by a venereologist. The drug regimen is selected individually.

Many sexually transmitted infections, especially those that persist for a long time or are not fully treated, cause infertility.

Antibiotics are prescribed for diseases:

• syphilis (penicillin drugs);
• gonorrhea (Cefriaxon, Ofloxacin);
• chlamydia (tetracycline antibiotics);
• ureaplasmosis (Tetracycline, Gentamicin).

Antiviral medications are prescribed for genital herpes. Acyclovir and its derivatives (Famiciclovir, Valacyclovir and others) are prescribed. Antiviral drugs are also used to suppress HIV (Retrovir, Viramune and others) - they slow down the reproduction of the virus.

Endometritis, vaginitis, inflammation of the appendages are accompanied by specific vaginal discharge, which irritates the mucous membrane of the labia and provokes itching.
A similar picture is caused by vaginal dysbiosis (bacterial vaginosis). Depending on the diagnosis, the doctor prescribes appropriate treatment with drugs:

• Amoxiclav;
• Vagilak;
• Klion-D;
• Clotrimazole;
• Cefazolin;
• Cefaxon.

Hormonal disorders

Hormonal imbalances during childbearing age and changes during menopause, kraurosis of the vulva (atrophic changes that occur after 40 years) can cause burning and itching. It is possible to remove symptoms after a course of treatment with hormonal medications:

• L-thyroxine;
• Antistrumin;
• Logest;
• Lindinet;
• Janine;
• Diana is 35.

Soothing baths and douches (chamomile, calendula) can enhance the therapeutic effect.

Endocrine disorders

Itching of the labia is often part of the clinical picture with:

• diabetes mellitus;
• hypofunction of the gonads;
• diseases of the thyroid gland.

Discomfort is often accompanied by menstrual irregularities. Diabetic itching in the perineum is due to the presence of sugar in the urine. The feeling is constant, temporary relief occurs after hygiene procedures. Endocrine disorders require constant monitoring of hormonal levels.

Depending on the level of hormones, medications are prescribed:

• antagonists and thyroid hormones;
• corticosteroids;
• insulin;
• estrogens;
• androgens;
• antiandrogens;
• gestagens.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy is often accompanied by thrush. The doctor prescribes gentle medications that are harmless to the fetus (for example, Clotrimazole ointment). Total treatment is carried out after childbirth.

Unpleasant symptoms that occur during pregnancy can also be caused by hormonal changes in the woman’s body. Signs gradually disappear as pregnancy progresses.

Stress

Nervous stress and depression provoke intimate itching in emotional women. Calming medications (Cetrin, motherwort tincture, Novopassit) will help get rid of discomfort. It is necessary to avoid irritating factors and stressful situations in order to exclude the possibility of neurogenic itching.

Wrong diet

Excessive consumption of hot spices, beer and wine can cause irritation in the intimate area, a burning sensation and itching.

Dry skin

Genetically determined insufficient moisture in the skin and vaginal mucosa causes discomfort and itching. Symptoms first appear in girls during puberty. After examining hormonal levels, the gynecologist prescribes a hypoallergenic moisturizer:

• Gynocomfort;
• Vagilak;
• Gynophyte;
• Floragin.

Diseases of the urinary system

Cystitis, inflammation and kidney stones cause an increase in white blood cells in the urine. The biomaterial also contains salts and bacteria. Specific treatment for itching in these cases is not required. Unpleasant symptoms disappear when urine values ​​normalize.

Oncology

Worrying itching may be a sign of genital cancer. A timely visit to a specialist and a thorough examination will allow you to identify the tumor in the early stages of its development, and the chances of a complete cure will increase significantly.

Diagnostics

Women with intimate itching usually undergo:

• gynecological examination with speculum;
• vaginal smear;
• PAP test;
• urine test (if cystitis and diabetes are suspected);
• blood test for sugar, biochemistry.

What to do at home to relieve itching?

You can get rid of discomfort by following the rules:

• carry out hygienic washing at least 3 times a day;
• select quality intimate care products;
• wear cotton underpants;
• douche and wash the labia with a decoction of herbs or antiseptics;
• use talc to prevent diaper rash and after shaving;
• exclude spicy, fatty foods, and alcohol from the diet;
• avoid sexual intercourse during exacerbation of discomfort to prevent additional irritation.