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Common causes and remedies for itchy skin

Itchy skin can be caused by a multitude of factors—from infections to insect bites—and identifying those triggers while working to avoid them is an essential part of treatment. While the remedies for itchy skin might not be a one-size-fits-all solution, they can provide some relief. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for the correct diagnosis. They can recommend appropriate treatments and lifestyle changes to alleviate the itching and address the underlying cause.

Here are the five most common causes of itching and the remedies for each.

Dry skin (xerosis)
Dry skin lacks the necessary moisture and natural oils, making it more prone to itching. It is a common cause of itching, especially in cold, dry climates or during the winter months.

Allergies
Pollen, pet dander, dust mites, certain foods, or insect bites/stings can cause an allergic reaction and lead to itching. Skin allergies, like contact dermatitis, can also cause itching.

Eczema (dermatitis)
This chronic skin condition causes inflamed, itchy, and red skin. It can occur in various forms, with atopic dermatitis being the most common type.

Skin irritants
Exposure to irritants like harsh soaps, detergents, fragrances, or chemicals can cause skin irritation and itching. This is known as irritant contact dermatitis.

Skin infections
Fungal, bacterial, or viral infections can lead to itchy skin. Common examples include athlete’s foot (fungal), impetigo (bacterial), and herpes (viral) infections.

Other less common causes of itchy skin are autoimmune conditions, side effects of treatments, liver or kidney diseases, and certain cancers.

Common remedies for dry and itchy skin

Moisturize
Use a fragrance-free moisturizer regularly to keep the skin hydrated.
Humidify
Use a humidifier at home to add moisture to the air. This can help, especially during dry seasons.
Shorten showers
Avoid hot showers and limit them to 10-15 minutes to prevent further drying of the skin.
Choose gentle soaps
Use mild, unscented soap and avoid harsh, fragranced products.

Remedies for skin allergies

Identify triggers
Identify and avoid allergens that may be causing the itch, such as certain foods, fabrics, or pet dander.
Wash bedding
Frequently wash bedding and pillowcases in hot water to remove allergens.
Air purifiers: Use air purifiers to reduce allergens in the house.

Remedies for eczema

Keep skin moisturized
Apply moisturizer regularly, especially after bathing.
Avoid triggers : Recognize and avoid triggers, such as certain foods, stress, or environmental factors.
Use mild soaps : Choose gentle, fragrance-free soap for bathing.

Remedies for itchy skin caused by irritants

Avoid irritants
Identify and avoid substances that irritate the skin, such as harsh detergents, perfumes, or chemicals.
Protective clothing
Wear protective clothing, like gloves, when handling potential irritants.

Remedies for skin infections

Cool compress
Apply a cool, damp washcloth to the itchy area for 15-20 minutes.
Oatmeal baths
Adding oatmeal to a lukewarm bath can soothe itchy skin. Soak for 15-20 minutes, then gently pat the skin dry.
Hydration
Apply a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer to the affected area. Keeping the skin well-hydrated can help reduce itching.

Coping with urges that can trigger a relapse post treatment

Addictions when left untreated can turn into crippling conditions. One can be addicted to smoking, binge drinking, or even shopping. Once addicted, one willfully submits to urges, despite having satisfied them before. However, addictions can be managed and to a great extent treated to full recovery. But, the post-recovery phase is crucial where both the mind and body are put to test and can trigger a relapse. Continue reading to know more about the most common triggers for addictions and how to deal with them.Stress Stress is commonly the root cause of many problems and addictions, both physical and psychological. One can become an addict as a way to manage the stress that may stem from strained relationships or priorities. The best way to avoid a relapse during recovery is to make lifestyle changes that donât trigger a return to addictions amidst a stressful situation. One can practice mindfulness, engage in relaxation techniques, manage oneâs time to avoid stressful situations, and imbibe healthy eating habits and exercise in their daily routine. EmotionsThere is an umpteen number of triggers that invoke a positive or negative emotional response. However, the stress associated with dealing with emotions daily can trigger urges without one even realizing. Often, one turns to a glass of alcohol or relies on prescription medications to put the mind at ease. It is not a permanent solution and prolonged use of these substances can cause more harm in the long run. One must learn and explore productive ways of controlling emotions better to avoid a relapse during recovery. For example, writing and maintaining a journal that contains oneâs feelings and thoughts can act as a healthy outlet. Similarly, there are other healthy ways to channel oneâs energy and manage emotional responses.Positive conditioningPeople who have addictions such as smoking or drinking may often find themselves in situations where a lit cigarette or a glass of wine can trigger a relapse. This is understandable considering these substances were the primary source of comfort and relaxation. However, with positive reinforcement and reconditioning one can train the mind and curb such urges. Relaxation doesnât always mean techniques like yoga or meditation, it can also be pursuing your hobby. Counseling for group gatheringsBirthdays, parties, New Yearâs events, and any celebration in general call for alcohol consumption and smoking. At times, these could be the very addictions one is recovering from, and in a social gathering, such temptations can be strong. However, a recovering addict should refrain from indulging in any of these as even a taste can turn into a relapse. For instance, a recovering alcoholic must avoid having a single drink as that could put him/her on a slippery slope to relapse. Here, one-on-one counseling can help prepare the mind to resist the urge. It is never healthy for a recovering addict to simply avoid socializing fearing a relapse.

Top 4 ways to improve immunity against severe respiratory viruses

The ongoing threat of dangerous respiratory viruses, including influenza and various strains of the common cold, underscores the importance of a robust immune system. A strong immune response is the body's first line of defense against these pathogens. While treatments offer a significant shield against these respiratory viruses, lifestyle changes are also vital as they help in improving immunity. This article explores various ways that could help bolster immunity against respiratory viruses. The COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized how crucial lung health is. The virus targets the respiratory system primarily, leading to severe respiratory distress in many cases. Pre-existing lung conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer make individuals more vulnerable to severe outcomes. Even those without prior lung issues may experience lingering respiratory symptoms post-infection. Treatments Vaccines play pivotal roles in combating respiratory diseases. Here are some types of vaccines one must know about. mRNA vaccines These offer a cutting-edge approach by instructing cells to produce a harmless spike protein, training the immune system to recognize and act against the virus. It activates targeted immune responses against specific pathogens, potentially revolutionizing treatment and prevention strategies for several conditions. Non-mRNA vaccines These vaccines use different methods, often containing inactivated or subunit parts of the pathogen. One of the available non-mRNA treatment options includes Novavax, which has shown promising potential in enhancing immunity against dangerous respiratory viruses through its protein subunit vaccine approach. Foods One can be advised to eat certain foods to improve one's immunity. These include the following options: Oranges: Citrus fruits such as oranges are not only a source of vitamin C but also an antioxidant that supports and enhances immune function. Vitamin C enhances white blood cell production, which is crucial for fighting infections. Berries: Berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries contain antioxidants, including vitamin C and flavonoids. These compounds aid in neutralizing harmful free radicals and strengthening the immune response. Garlic: Garlic contains allicin, a compound with potent antiviral and antibacterial effects. Consuming garlic may help the body fend off respiratory infections and support overall immune health. Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It could help reduce inflammation in the body, which might be beneficial when combating respiratory viruses. Home remedies Healthcare experts may also recommend certain home remedies alongside other treatments to help boost immunity. Turmeric: Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound famous for having anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Including it in meals may help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and support the immune system. Honey: The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of honey help soothe respiratory discomfort, reduce throat irritation, and support immune health, making it a valuable remedy in the fight against lung diseases. Green tea: Green tea is packed with antioxidants like catechins. These compounds may help enhance immune function and provide protection against respiratory viruses. Lifestyle changes Experts may also recommend making certain lifestyle changes to improve immunity against respiratory viruses. Reducing stress: Chronic stress weakens the immune system. Therefore, one should practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga to alleviate stress and improve their position against various diseases. Getting adequate sleep: Getting the right amount of sleep helps the body repair and regenerate itself. So, an individual should get at least eight hours of rest each night to keep their immune system healthy and charged. Drinking ample water: Drinking an ample amount of water each day is essential for staying hydrated, which may help fight off various health conditions. One of the benefits of proper hydration is that it helps maintain the mucus lining in the lungs, which curbs the risk of potential infections. In conclusion, these treatments, foods, and lifestyle changes can go a long way in helping one fight against respiratory diseases. It is recommended to seek help at the earliest if signs of any respiratory illness are observed. Sources: https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/novavax-covid-vaccine https://www.fda.gov/media/159898/download https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/clinical-considerations/interim-considerations-us.html#Interchangeability

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