How to help cancer patients reduce itching

Patting the itchy area, applying cold compresses, massaging, taking warm baths and letting the skin dry naturally can help control itching and soothe the skin.

Itchy skin is one of the common symptoms of cancer. This condition occurs due to many factors such as skin irritation, accumulation of bile salts under the skin due to cancer, hormonal changes... Side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy can also cause patients to feel itchy with rashes. Prolonged itching causes discomfort. Patients with the habit of scratching hard can easily form open sores, causing pain or infection. Below are some measures to help control itchy skin, before and during cancer treatment.

Bathing properly : Patients should bathe in warm water instead of cold water. Warm water provides more moisture, helps soothe the skin, and avoids irritation. Each bath should last about 30 minutes, and it is recommended to bathe 2-3 times a day. While bathing, limit the use of soap and shower gels with strong detergents, and use a clean, soft cotton towel to wash gently.

Moisturize your skin : After bathing, pat your skin dry, do not use a towel that is too hard because it can damage the itchy area. The patient can apply an alcohol-free, fragrance-free moisturizer to the skin. Do this 2-3 times a day.

Skin cream helps relieve symptoms. Photo: Freepik — Skin cream helps relieve symptoms. Photo: *Freepik*

Drink plenty of water : Dehydration is another reason why cancer patients feel itchy. Therefore, everyone should drink more water every day, especially during cancer treatment. In addition to filtered water, fruit juices, soups, bone broths... also help replenish water for the body, avoiding dehydration.

Avoid irritants : Cancer patients should avoid irritants such as clothing made of wool, synthetic fibers or harsh fabrics, and deodorants. Choose mild, unscented detergents for washing clothes and bedding. You can add vinegar to the water when rinsing clothes to remove traces of detergent.

Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing : Wear loose-fitting clothing and clothing made of cotton or other soft fabrics to avoid skin irritation.

Use skin creams : Some over-the-counter treatments such as skin creams and anti-itch medications can help relieve your discomfort. However, you should consult your doctor and read product labels for ingredients before using.

Cool compress : You can also use a cool towel or ice to apply around the itchy area. Do this gently, do not rub the itchy skin because it can easily cause damage.

To avoid skin damage, patients should cut their nails short and clean, rub gently instead of scratching too hard. You can try to distract yourself with music , reading books and other people to forget the itchy feeling.

Patients should contact their doctor promptly if they experience itching that does not go away after two days or more, yellow skin, tea-colored urine, open and scratched itchy skin, severe rash, blisters, bright red skin or scaly skin...

Anh Chi (According to Medical News Today )

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