FitSugar

That Little Itch Could Be . . .

FitSugar — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 02:00:00 -0800

The relationship between itches and scratching just got a little more complicated. A new study on scratching (yes, scientists study actions as seemingly banal as scratching) revealed that the act of scratching actually reduces activity in the brain region associated with negative emotions and unpleasant memories. This could be why scratching that itch feels so good.

The sensation of an itch is rather physiologically complicated, as is the scratch that relieves it. An itch involves not just the skin but the spinal cord and brain, too. While scratching an itch is a reflex response (the action removes irritants), there is a lot of neurological activity happening to help you to hit the right spot. When you do hit the right spot, it feels great. The researchers were actually interested in why scratching inhibits or alleviates the itching sensation. It looks like they are one step closer to figuring out why the itch got scratched.

My question to you is, do you feel a little itchy after reading this post?

Source

Why Do Mosquito Bites Itch So Much?

FitSugar — Tue, 29 May 2007 11:45:00 -0700

How much do you love that the weather has warmed up? It puts me in such a great mood, since I am spending so much time outdoors. I have to say though, those pesky mosquitoes buzzing around, trying to bite me, send me running indoors to safety more often than not!

I don't know what it is about me, but I must have pretty tasty blood because I get eaten alive. What I want to know is why mosquito bites itch so much!

Did you know that it's only female mosquitoes that bite you? They eat mostly nectar, but when it's time to make eggs and lay them, they need to eat protein (aka - your blood). When the mosquito stabs her needle-like mouthparts through the skin of her victim, she injects her saliva, teeming with digestive enzymes and anticoagulants to help her drink more quickly. Your body sees that as an enemy and produces histamine to ward off infection. That little pink bump left on your skin is an allergic reaction to the mosquito's saliva.

Fit's Tips: After you realize that you've been bitten, try with all your might NOT to scratch that annoying itch - it'll only make it itch and swell more. Wash the area with soap and water, then apply calamine lotion, cortisone, or any other anti-itch cream to the infected area. An ice pack may also help.

If you have any other remedies for dealing with itchy mosquito bites, tell me below.

Source

Antipruritic (On the skin)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:09:47 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Treats itchy skin caused by psoriasis, seborrhea, dandruff, or other conditions. Some forms of this medicine treat scaling and dry skin, which may cause itching.

Brand Name(s)

Lac-Lotion, Lac-Hydrin, Amlactin, Neutrogena T/Gel, Amlactin AP, Neutrogena T/Gel Extra Strength, Benadryl Itch Stopping, Dermamycin, Benadryl Extra Strength, Amlactin Distribution Pack, LAC Cream, Fototar, Good Sense Itch Relief, Anti-Itch, Benadryl

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients.

How to Use This Medicine

Oil, Spray, Shampoo, Soap, Liquid, Gel/Jelly, Ointment, Cream, Lotion

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
If you are using this medicine with a prescription, the medicine might come with patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
This medicine is for use on your skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away. Some forms of this medicine should not be used on your face, genitals, or rectum. If you are not sure what body areas you can use this medicine on, ask your pharmacist.
For the cream, soap, oil, liquid, lotion, ointment, or gel: Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Rub it in gently. You might need to shake the liquid medicine before you use it.
To use the shampoo: Wet your hair and scalp thoroughly with water. Work the shampoo into a lather and gently massage it over your whole scalp for 3 to 5 minutes. Rinse your hair thoroughly. Wash your hair again and leave the shampoo on your scalp for another 3 to 5 minutes. Use at least twice a week for best results, or as directed by your doctor.
Do not use the spray near heat or open flame, or while smoking.

If a dose is missed:

If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, apply it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to apply the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine container and any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated skin areas.
Ask your doctor before you start taking any oral medicine while you are using this topical medicine. This includes non-prescription (over-the-counter) medicines.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you are allergic to preservatives or dyes.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor. Let your doctor know if your symptoms go away but come back again within a few days.
This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use a sunscreen when you are outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.
Do not use this medicine for a skin problem that has not been checked by your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
Stinging or burning on your skin.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Rash.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

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A.D.A.M. Copyright

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-2009 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5313

Camphor/menthol (On the skin)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:04:51 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Camphor (KAM-for), Menthol (MEN-thole)

Treats minor aches and pains in muscles and joints due to arthritis, backache, strains, or sprains.

Brand Name(s)

Sarna, Biofreeze, Dr. Blaine's Ortho-Nesic, Bio Freeze, Orthogel, Biofreeze Pain Relieving Gel, Sombra Natural Pain Relieving, Sombra, Osco Chest Rub Medication, Mentholatum, Tiger Balm, Tiger Balm Ultra, Tiger Balm Arthritis Rub, Men-Phor, Itch Relief Anti-Itch

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to menthol or camphor.

How to Use This Medicine

Cream, Stick, Lotion, Gel/Jelly, Ointment

This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts or scrapes. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Rub it in gently.
Do not cover the treated area with a bandage unless your doctor has told you to.
Do not use this medicine with a heating pad or device unless your doctor tells you to.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine container and any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
Keep all medicine away from children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated skin areas.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have sensitive skin.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Skin rash, itching, redness, or swelling.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Return of your symptoms a few days after they have cleared up.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_4938

How to Combat Winter Itch

FitSugar — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 03:00:00 -0800

When the cold wind blows outside, we fight it by cranking up our heaters. Unfortunately, that heat makes the air super dry, which can take a toll on your skin leaving you incredibly itchy, scaly and uncomfortable. You can't help but scratch, which leaves it even more irritated.

Here are some tips to help you keep the moisture in your skin:

I know there's nothing like a hot shower to warm you up in the Winter, but the hotter the water the drier it makes your skin. Try a 15 minute soak in a warm bath instead, using a moisturizing soap like Pre de Provence Shea Butter Soap. Try some essential oils in the water to up the moisturizing potential of your bath.
If you can't stay away from showering, use warm water, and only wash your face, hands, feet, and between folds of skin. Take short showers, every other day. Too much cleansing removes your skin's natural moisturizers.
User 7kimba7 reminded me that using a body scrub or loofah gloves in the shower can help to slough off itchy dead skin cells.

Want to see the other tips? Then read more

After your shower or bath, dry yourself off slightly and while your skin is still damp, apply moisturizer all over, like this Body Time Shea Butter Moisturizer. Users bhilb and Martini Rossi also are fans of Eucerin because it really helps to moisturize their dry skin.
Purchase a humidifier if you don't already have one and use it in your bedroom at night. It'll help with a dry throat as well.
Try turning the thermostat down a little. Keeping your home on the cool side might help.
Drink water throughout the day, even in the Winter (It's easy to forget since we're not hot). It'll hydrate your skin from the inside out.

Source

Weather Through the Winter Itch

FitSugar — Wed, 13 Dec 2006 02:00:00 -0800

As the cold wind blows outside, we combat it by cranking up our heaters. It feels so nice to be toasty warm when you look outside and see bare trees naked in the bitter cold air.

Unfortunately, that heat makes the air super dry, and it takes a toll on our skin, drying it out. We're left with itchy, incredibly scaly dry skin. You can't help but scratch, which leaves it even more irritated.

See if these tips will help you keep the moisture in your skin:

Purchase a humidifier if you don't already have one and use it in your bedroom at night. It'll help with a dry throat as well.

I know there's nothing like a hot shower to warm you up in the winter, but the hotter the water the drier it makes your skin. Try a 15 minute soak in a warm bath instead, using a moisturizing soap like Pre de Provence Shea Butter Soap. Try some essential oils in the water to up the moisturizing potential of your bath.
If you can't stay away from showering, use warm water, and only wash your face, hands, feet, and between folds of skin. Take short showers, every other day - too much cleansing removes the skin's natural moisturizers.
Dry yourself off slightly and while your skin is still damp, apply moisturizer all over. Like this Body Time Shea Butter Moisturizer.
Try turning the thermostat down a little. Keeping your home on the cool side might help.

Hope these tips keep you warm and not too dry.

Terbinafine (On the skin)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:54:28 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Terbinafine (TER-bin-a-feen)

Treats a fungus infection on your skin, including tinea pedis ("athlete's foot"), tinea corporis ("ringworm"), and tinea cruris ("jock itch").

Brand Name(s)

Lamisil, Lamisil AT Athlete's Foot, Lamisil AT, Lamisil AT Jock Itch

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to terbinafine.

How to Use This Medicine

Cream, Spray, Liquid

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to apply and how often. Do not use more medicine or apply it more often than your doctor tells you to.
If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts or scrapes. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
This medicine should not be used in the vagina.
Before using this medicine, use soap and water to wash the skin where you will use the medicine. Dry your skin with a clean towel.
Put a thin layer of the cream over the infected area and rub it in gently.
Use enough liquid to cover the infected skin and the healthy skin around the infection.
Do not use the spray on your face.
Use the medicine on both feet if you have athlete's foot.
Do not cover the treated area with a bandage unless your doctor has told you to.
Keep using this medicine for the full treatment time, even if you feel better after the first few doses. Your infection may not clear up if you stop using the medicine too soon.
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.

If a dose is missed:

Use your medicine as soon as possible unless it is almost time for your next dose.
Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Keep the medicine at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Do not freeze or refrigerate.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

You should not use other medicines on the same area of skin unless your doctor tells you to.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.
This medicine will only treat certain kinds of infections. Use the medicine as your doctor ordered. You should not use the medicine to treat other conditions such as diaper rash or vaginal infections.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Itching, rash, swelling, blisters, or redness that were not there before you used this medicine

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Stinging, burning, or dryness where medicine is put on

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_0714

The Down Side to Swimming: Recreational Water Illness

FitSugar — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 02:00:00 -0700

I love to swim, be it in lakes, pools, rivers or oceans. Unfortunately I just read an article on recreational water illness that made my skin crawl. Yes, there are things for fear that live in water that are decidedly smaller than great white sharks.

We all know that infection-producing germs lurk in our swimming water and can cause swimmers ear and swimmers itch, the problem is that infections are on the rise and according to the CDC the rate has more than doubled in the last 10 years. Just to add to my paranoia, Alan Greene, MD, says “No one who swims is safe from RWIs…You can catch respiratory illnesses and colds but by far, skin rashes, swimmer's ear, and gastrointestinal bugs are the most common.” Great. That last one sounds particularly gruesome to me.

Swimmers ear, is by far the most common problem with about 6.2 million cases occurring each year. Excessive water in the ear canal breaks down protective barriers in the ear and allows that lurking bacteria to get into and infect the ear. Symptoms include one to two days of progressive ear pain that is worsened by chewing or pulling the ear. Itching, pus and discharge often follow - eewww!

If you want to learn more about RWI, you should read more

The other common RWI is swimmers itch, known as cercarial dermatitis in medical jargon. Symptoms include tingling, burning or itching of the skin, small reddish pimples and or blisters that can appear from minutes to days after swimming in contaminated water. Both saltwater and freshwater are homes to the parasite larvae that causes these rashes, but they are most often found in unhygienic hot tubs or spas.

The best tips for avoiding these problems are:

Make sure pools are properly disinfected.
To prevent gastrointestinal distress - DO NOT SWALLOW any water.
For swimmers ear, dry ears thoroughly by tilting your head to the side and tugging the ear lobe to let the water out after swimming.
For skin rashes, showering before and after taking a dip in lakes, ponds, and oceans can help prevent them.

Hopefully this post isn't too much of a buzz kill, just take care of yourself out there and remember never swim alone - for safety reasons, but if you get sick at least you will have someone to compare symptoms with.

Source

Topical barrier preparations (On the skin)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:58:21 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Treats and prevents diaper rash, severely dry or chapped skin, minor burns, and other skin irritations.

Brand Name(s)

Dr. Smith's RASH-n-ALL, Lantiseptic Skin Protectant, Step 3 Moisture Barrier, Dermadrox, Soothe & Cool Moisture Barrier, Lobana Peri-Garde, Sarna Ultra Anti-Itch, Lantiseptic Therapeutic, Handshield, Soothe & Cool Inzo, Kerodex 71, Kerodex 51, Carrington Moisture Barrier, D-R-C Peri-Rectal Creme, Prean

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to petrolatum, lanolin, dimethicone, or zinc oxide.

How to Use This Medicine

Ointment, Cream, Lotion, Pad, Swab, Spray, Paste

Change wet and soiled diapers right away. Clean the diaper area and allow to dry.
Clean minor wounds before applying this medicine.
This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts or scrapes. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Rub it in gently. Do not rub in the medicine that came in a pad, swab, or spray. Allow the pad, swab, or spray medicine to dry before covering the treated skin area.
Apply this medicine as often as needed (for babies, with each diaper change), unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store this medicine at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Keep this and all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

For adult women, make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
Do not use this medicine for a skin problem that has not been checked by your doctor.
If someone accidentally swallows some of this medicine, call your local poison control center.
If rash gets worse or does not get better within 7 days, call your doctor.
Do not use this medicine on deep cuts or wounds or on skin that is infected.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Increased redness or blistering on the skin

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_1005

Over Active Yeast

FitSugar — Wed, 17 Jan 2007 02:00:00 -0800

Here's the deal. A few years ago, the U.S. changed the rules so we didn't need prescriptions to get cures for yeast infections. The drug companies started bombarding us with hype about their yeast infection products, and suddenly everyone was hyper-aware.

Women started to assume that every time they got an itch "down there," they had a yeast infection. So they rushed to the store to buy the strongest anti-fungal cream they could find.

But not every itch equals a yeast infection. And when you expose your naturally-occurring vaginal yeast to these drugs, some of the yeast may be resistant. Only the resistant ones thrive and multiply, so the next time you get a yeast infection, you've got a panty full of drug-resistant yeast, and you can't just run to the pharmacy and shell out $20 for a cure - you have to go to a doctor and get something much stronger.

This is bad news because as much as 25-30% of yeast infections may now be resistant to your basic Monistat. That's why you may have found that these over-the-counter cures don't really work.

Fit's Tips: You can test it yourself using Fem-V, or call your trusted gynecologist and get their advice. It will save you from the King Kong of yeast infections down the road.