The Itch Center has been created on the basis of the Clinic of Dermatovenereology and Allergology of the European Medical Center. Specialists from various fields provide outpatient and inpatient care to patients with acute and chronic itching. During treatment, the patient is offered a detailed examination in accordance with the protocol of the AWMF-Leitlinie (Association of Scientific Medical Societies in Germany) and European protocols for the management of patients with chronic itching.
The experience of highly qualified doctors, combined with a wide range of possibilities and examination methods at EMC, in most cases helps to identify the causes of itching, which, together with comprehensive, individually selected treatment, allows you to achieve maximum results from therapy.
In the literature, the term “itching” is understood as a sensation that causes a targeted scratching reflex. In the scientific literature, itching is also referred to as “pruritus” (from the Latin prūrio – to scratch). Often this phenomenon is one of the first symptoms of not only skin diseases, but also internal diseases, diseases of the nervous system, hormonal disorders and even tumors. That is why itching is currently regarded as an “interdisciplinary symptom” and in some cases even identified as a separate disease.
There are general (generalized) and local (localized) skin itching. Acute generalized - most often the result of food or drug allergies, reactions to cold, heat, etc. Often, generalized skin itching is a symptom of serious diseases: diabetes, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, malignant neoplasms, etc.
Localized itching occurs most often in the scalp and anogenital area and is paroxysmal in nature. The reasons for the development of this phenomenon in the anal area, as a rule, are considered to be chronic inflammatory processes in the pelvic organs, infections, incl. helminthic infestations, etc. Long-term sensations are often complicated by the development of a bacterial infection, candidiasis. Localized itching is also observed in the area of rashes in various skin diseases: psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, etc.
Frequency of development of itching in skin and systemic diseases
Diagnosis | Frequency |
Atopic dermatitis | main symptom, in 100% of cases |
Psoriasis | 77-84% |
Herpes zoster/postherpetic neuralgia | 58%/30% |
Chronic kidney disease/dialysis | 22% |
Primary biliary cirrhosis | 80% |
Diabetes | 3% |
Hyperthyroidism | 4-7,5% |
Anorexia | 58% |
Polycythemia vera | 48% |
Hodgkin's lymphoma | 25-35% |
Itching that persists for more than 6 weeks is defined as chronic. Its frequency among the adult population is, according to research, 8-9%. Chronic phenomena are observed in various skin diseases (atopic dermatitis/neurodermatitis, eczema, prurigo, psoriasis, etc.) and systemic diseases.
Itching in various skin diseases
Diseases often accompanied by itching | Diseases rarely accompanied by itching |
Inflammatory dermatoses: atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, eczema, lichen planus, prurigo, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, mastocytosis, lichen rosea, urticaria | Inflammatory dermatoses: scleroderma and lichen sclerosus, Devergie's disease |
Infectious dermatoses: viral infections, impetigo, pediculosis, scabies | Genodermatoses: Darier's disease, Hailey-Hailey disease |
Autoimmune dermatoses: bullous dermatoses, incl. Dühring's dermatitis herpetiformis | Tumors: B-cell lymphoma of the skin, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma of the skin |
Tumors: Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma | Other conditions: scars |
Mechanism of development of itching
The mechanisms of development of itching in chronic kidney diseases are not fully known. The role of metabolic disorders is suggested, as well as the involvement of opioid receptors and increased skin dryness. Itching usually develops after 2-3 months. after the start of hemodialysis, in 25-50% of cases it is generalized, in other cases it is localized. As a rule, itching is most pronounced in the back and face.
In liver diseases, itching is a very common symptom (observed in 80% of cases of liver cirrhosis, in 15% of all cases of viral hepatitis C). As a rule, it begins in the area of the palms and soles, as well as in the friction area of clothing. It is characteristically intensified at night. Over time, the itching becomes generalized, and scratching the skin brings virtually no relief.
With endocrine pathology, for example, diabetes mellitus and hyperfunction of the parathyroid glands, itching may be accompanied by a burning sensation, tingling, or “crawling sensations.” A lack of vitamin D, minerals, and iron also in some cases leads to the development of this phenomenon. With iron deficiency, “aquagenic itching” (on contact with water) is often observed. As a rule, restoration of normal levels of iron and minerals leads to the disappearance of any sensations within 2 weeks from the start of therapy.
Itching can be one of the symptoms of tumors and blood diseases. Possible mechanisms of its occurrence include toxic effects, allergic reactions to tumor components, as well as direct irritating effects on the nerves and brain (in case of brain tumors).
Systemic diseases that may be accompanied by itching
Metabolic and endocrinological disorders: chronic renal failure, liver disease, diseases of the thyroid and parathyroid glands, iron deficiency.
Infectious diseases: HIV infection, parasitosis and helminthic infestations.
Blood diseases: polycythemia vera, myelodysplastic syndrome, lymphoma.
Neurological diseases: multiple sclerosis, neuropathy, brain and spinal cord tumors, postherpetic neuralgia.
Psychosomatic and psychiatric disorders: depression, eating disorders, bipolar disorders.
Hello, dear readers! Today we will talk about the best vitamins to take for the skin of the body. You may ask – what does this topic have to do with losing weight? The most direct. We all strive to be slim, and therefore beautiful.
And one of the tasks of vitamins is precisely to make our face and body well-groomed and healthy. How do they do this and which ones are best suited for solving certain skin problems? First things first, join us!
On guard of beauty
The cosmetics industry today offers a huge selection of all kinds of creams and masks to maintain the youth and beauty of the body. But it is naive to believe that this can be achieved only with creams.
The fact is that any cream contains only a small concentration of these substances. And, for example, vitamin C, which is difficult to process, is often present in inexpensive creams only on the packaging - it is extremely volatile and quickly breaks down in the air.
You can’t do without vitamins; they help to cope with many tasks of making your body shine at once, nourish it, protect it, promote cell renewal, and maintain a healthy appearance.
General information about them can be gleaned from this video.
Signs of ill health
We get vitamins from food or by taking them in the form of capsules or pills. It is important to remember that not all of them are synthesized in our body; some, like those belonging to group B, are washed out quite quickly and their supply must be constantly replenished.
And the lack of one or another element is reflected in the condition of the skin, which in this case acts as a kind of “mirror”. By the way, hair and nails, as well as the general condition of the body, can be a litmus test here.
Of course, only a doctor can give you the most accurate diagnosis. But if you think that you are fine, pay attention to some signs that can easily determine vitamin deficiency.
- Dry and flaky skin, the appearance of inflamed areas on it, dermatitis.
- Chapped lips and so-called “jams” in the corners and ulcers.
- Dull, brittle nails, the appearance of dimples, stripes, spots on them.
- Brittle hair prone to loss. Presence of dandruff, itching.
- Decreased vision, swelling and redness of the eyelids can also be the cause of vitamin deficiency.
- Depression, apathy, inability to concentrate, insomnia, loss of appetite.
If a problem exists, it's time to think about what to do to get everything back to normal? First, you need to figure out exactly what vitamins you need.
Because thoughtless consumption of everything in a row can do more harm than good. It is also worth considering that many of these elements work best in combination. Their close interaction enhances each other's effects and accelerates absorption.
Which vitamins are better
So, in general, these elements can be divided into the following groups. Why conditional, you ask? Because each of them “works” in several directions at once.
For youth and accelerated regeneration
Vitamins A, C, E actively fight skin aging, help maintain its elasticity, reduce dryness and flaking.
These are natural antioxidants that prevent free radicals from interacting with elements of skin cells.
The number of free radicals increases sharply during illness and during the cold season. Accordingly, the intake of such elements during these periods should be increased.
This group, in addition, improves tissue regeneration after microtrauma or other damage, healing of acne wounds, and helps spots and small scars disappear faster.
Includes:
- Tocopherol (E) actively helps fight skin sagging and slow down the aging process. Pale, rough, dry skin indicates its deficiency.
- Retinol (A) – contributes to a greater extent to moisturize and protect it from harmful environmental factors, and helps against flaking.
- Ascorbic acid (C) is responsible for its elasticity and promotes the synthesis of new collagen fibers.
In addition to direct multivitamin complexes - in food products.
Cabbage, green salad, mushrooms, green peas, carrots, pumpkin, and tomatoes are rich in retinol. As well as products of animal origin - yolk, fish, liver, fermented milk products.
Ascorbic acid, as you know, is worth looking for in citrus fruits; in addition, it is found in apples, spinach, cauliflower, berries, rose hips, and nuts.
Sources of tocopherol are unrefined vegetable oils (especially corn, peanut, flaxseed, soybean, nuts), beans, sunflower seeds, red fish, and especially sprouted cereals.
Its highest concentration is in sprouted wheat, which also contains a whole complex of other useful substances - A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B9 and micro- and macroelements.
To prevent and combat wrinkles
Structural disorders of the skin cannot be avoided over time, but reducing them is quite possible. Representatives of group B are especially useful in this direction.
Each of them has its own characteristics, and their lack is indicated by itching, irritation, pimples and blackheads, as well as hair loss.
It is worth paying attention to this group (as well as the previous one, however) for those who are actively losing weight. Vitamin complexes with their composition should be taken in order to tighten the skin, which was discussed in particular in the article “Real ways to get rid of sagging skin after losing weight.”
Includes:
- Thiamine (B1) helps strengthen the nervous system, and almost all diseases, as we know, are caused by nerves (including skin diseases). In addition, it protects against allergic and inflammatory reactions, removes excess fluid, preventing swelling.
- Riboflavin (B2) helps improve metabolism and cell respiration. And its deficiency also causes dandruff.
- Nicotinic acid, niacin (B3 or PP) - its deficiency leads to a serious illness - pellagra, dermatitis, the severe form of which results in serious rashes, itching, diarrhea and even mental disorders.
- Pantothenic acid (B5) – accelerates skin renewal and wound healing.
- Pyridoxine (B6) Famous for its nourishing and moisturizing properties, it helps protect against harmful environmental influences.
- Biotin (B7), also known as vitamin H. One of the most important elements for the body, it is no coincidence that its name contains the prefix “bio” - life. Participates in the regeneration of skin, nails and hair cells.
- Folic acid (B9) helps cells renew themselves, and protects the walls of blood vessels from destruction.
- Cyanocobalamin (B12) – participant in the process of cell division. It is an essential component of procedures for dermatitis, and is also very useful for affecting mature skin. Its deficiency can cause nervous tics, spasms of the facial muscles, which leads to the formation of wrinkles.
In multivitamin complexes, as well as in food products. Your diet should include whole grain cereals, brown rice, sprouted grains, green onions, cauliflower and white cabbage, carrots, tomatoes, peanuts, soybeans, figs, dates, and fruits.
If there are products of animal origin on your table, then you can recommend eggs, cheese, salmon and tuna, pork and beef kidneys, and liver.
For face and eye area care
This is a special zone, since it is the one that is exposed to maximum exposure to harmful environmental factors.
In addition, this is where the most visible wrinkles are located to everyone around us (and to ourselves, first of all, of course), which we so want to part with.
In general, the complex of elements here is the same as for the whole body. But there are some features, especially for caring for the area around the eyes.
There are numerous traditional methods that I have come across, some of which I want to share with you.
Ascorbic acid (C) for masks around the eyes .
In its pure form, a solution of ascorbic acid for injection is advised to simply apply to the face, rubbing, and a few minutes later, after drying, apply the cream.
A pure solution is not suitable for the eyes; ascorbic acid is very stinging and can cause irritation. Experts recommend mixing it with mineral water or yogurt. Among the recipes there is this:
Tocopherol (E) for the eye area .
The principle is the same - apply under the eyes and on the eyelids. The procedure is called rejuvenating and tightening; it helps to remove “crow’s feet” and saggy folds on the eyelids.
In general, blood circulation and oxygen supply to cells improves, the skin is toned and looks healthy.
It is better to take pharmaceutical vitamin E oil; the solution in ampoules is not recommended - it is too concentrated and, as in the case of axorbic acid, can cause irritation. Apply for 10-20 minutes.
This is just a small part of the advice. If anyone has their own beauty recipes, share them in the comments, I’m sure the readers of my blog will be grateful to you. In conclusion, I would like to point out the following:
What to remember:
- Vitamins certainly help keep the whole body in good condition.
- Their deficiency is reflected directly on the skin itself, which takes on a painful appearance, flakes, and itches.
- Only a doctor can help determine the exact cause of the problem. You should not self-medicate.
- To avoid vitamin deficiency, you should adjust your diet - it should contain everything necessary for normal life.
Well, that's all I have for today. See you again in new articles on my blog!
Itching and dry skin
Vitamins for dry skin of the face and body
Skin is a protective shell that has many functions. Normally, it is elastic, smooth, without any damage. If the skin becomes dry, this indicates problems in the body.
There are 4 skin types: normal, oily, dry, combination (mixed). But under certain conditions, the normal type can turn into dry.
What does dry skin mean?
This problem occurs for various reasons. Diets in which the body does not receive enough fats and carbohydrates, unbalanced unhealthy diet - all this leads to a lack of vitamins and important microelements, worsens the appearance of the skin, and provokes a feeling of tightness and dryness of the skin.
The feeling of dryness and burning of the skin also occurs due to unfavorable climatic factors - frost, scorching sun, low humidity, temperature changes. It provokes dry skin, burning, itching and improper care, for example, even people with oily skin are not recommended to use soap for washing. Dry skin occurs in women during menopause, in other words, hormonal changes reduce sebum production.
Other reasons that cause dryness and burning of the skin of the body and face include:
- Dehydration
- Dry air in heated rooms
- Aggressive cosmetic procedures
- Malignant tumor
- Nervous system diseases
It's easy to identify dry skin. It loses elasticity, small wrinkles are noticeable, peeling and redness are noted. If the skin is constantly dry, small superficial wounds may even appear. If we put our fingers or paper to our face, there will be no traces of fat left on them. But small scales may remain due to peeling.
How to get rid of dry skin
Before you wonder what vitamin you need for dry skin, make sure you know the real cause of the symptom. If the problem is in the gastrointestinal tract, you need to fix it first. If dry skin is the result of a factor that can be eliminated, do not hesitate. At the same time, provide your skin with the right care.
People with dry skin, of course, will not be able to forget about this problem forever. But it can and should be kept under control, especially since wrinkles from dry skin are a common problem (people with mixed and oily skin types suffer less from early aging). Dry, thin skin especially needs moisture - moisturizing cosmetics and enhanced protection from adverse climatic factors are needed.
How to deal with dry skin if it is temporary? If you are concerned about dry skin when exposed to the sun, you should use sunscreen. If there is not enough moisture, drink more water, buy an air humidifier, and do not overuse chlorinated water and solariums.
If you notice dry skin in winter
Try to spend more time outdoors and humidify the air indoors; Before going outside, you should apply a nourishing, not rehydrating cream to your face.
Regardless of the cause, the problem of dry skin should be solved with support from the inside - this way the skin will quickly return to its normal state. Vitamins for dry skin are also recommended for people with dry skin to prevent early aging.
But rather than treating a disease, it is better to prevent it. How to prevent dry skin? It is enough to follow the rules of prevention. Stop smoking, do not abuse alcohol, soda and sweets, do not use cosmetics with alkali and alcohol, forget about moisturizers in winter (only nourishing ones!), and remember about sunscreens in summer. And, of course, keep your health under control.
Drugs for dry skin
When visiting a cosmetologist, many clients ask what vitamins are missing for dry skin. But this symptom does not necessarily indicate a micronutrient deficiency. Dry skin and lack of vitamins do not always equate. The cause of dry skin can be, for example, diabetes or a gynecological disease. And if, in addition to uncomfortable sensations on the skin, other symptoms bother you, consult an endocrinologist, gynecologist, mycologist; if necessary, you will need the help of an allergist, rheumatologist or hematologist.
Each vitamin is characterized by a certain set of symptoms that appear when it is deficient. Some symptoms are common to different vitamins, some are individual. Therefore, there is no need to guess how to deal with dry skin - consult a doctor, he will determine which vitamin or group of vitamins your body is deficient in and what vitamins you need to take for dry skin.
How to get rid of dry skin with vitamins
Vitamins A, E, C, PP, and group B vitamins are responsible for our beauty. It is best to take a blood test to determine the content of vitamins in it, now this is possible. However, not everyone has the time or means to do this. After consulting with a doctor you trust, you can guess which vitamin is missing if you have dry skin.
This means, having skin prone to dryness, it is necessary to introduce beneficial substances into the body.
There are two ways to enter:
Beauty and health require not only vitamin compounds, but also minerals. Unlike the former, they are present inside us, part of cells and tissues. However, we often encounter insufficient levels of them, which leads to certain clinical manifestations.
One of these substances is zinc. It is part of the cells, concentrating in the liver, pancreas, and muscle tissue. Actively participates in metabolism and energy due to the fact that it contains hundreds of enzymes. Zinc is important for the metabolism of vitamin E, which is also responsible for the elasticity and smoothness of the skin.
It turns out that if there are signs of dry skin, the approach should be comprehensive. Only a combination of the most important vitamins and micro- and macroelements will answer the question of how to remove dry skin.
What to do with nutrition if your skin is very dry
Foods with the maximum amount of these vitamins and zinc should be added to the diet. These are beef liver and chicken by-products, legumes (chickpeas, mung beans, beans, lentils), various nuts and pumpkin and sunflower seeds, sea fish and seafood, various greens (spinach, arugula), avocado; orange, yellow and red vegetables; butter and cheese, dairy products; vegetable oils from different crops (olive, sunflower, flaxseed, corn, etc.).
In some countries (Great Britain, USA, Germany, France, etc.), part of the national health policy is the development of healthy eating programs. So, on the shelves of supermarkets in the UK in the fruit and vegetable section you can see a sign “5 a day” (“5 a day”), which means a reminder that at least 5 servings of vegetables and fruit per day (approximately 400 g) must eat for their own good. It is widely known that eating vegetables, fruits and whole grains has positive effects on health. And in 2014, scientists from one of the UK universities found that not 5, but even 10 servings of these products per day have greater benefits. Still, if we try to follow the recommendations of world scientists, we will be able to eliminate health problems, and, even more so, cope with the causes of dry facial skin.
Dry skin what vitamins to take
Along with a review of nutrition, it is worth remembering dietary supplements that quickly compensate for the lack of elements. One of them is Zincite. It contains a sufficient dosage to replenish the daily requirement of zinc. And its German manufacturer has long been known and has positively established itself in the pharmaceutical market.
Taking Zincite is convenient. For extremely dry skin, the recommended use is only 1 time per day for a course duration of 1 month.
It should be noted that dry skin care must be carried out both externally and internally. This is an important component of her health and beauty.
Zincite is an additional source of zinc in the form of soluble tablets.