How to Stop Scratching an Itch from Eczema, Hives or Another Skin Problem
With eczema, hives and other skin conditions we are told to not scratch the itch. Think about feeling 100 mosquito bites at once and you’ll know the level of heroic self-control this advice requests. It seems impossible to do.
What does it take to NOT scratch? First of all, the approach is to use antihistamines and also anti-itch creams as well as often cortisone to reduce inflammation and itching. I also find that taking flax seed oil, tumeric , bromelain and other supplements is helpful to reduce the intensity of itching. Cutting your nails short will help (and file them). For kids putting socks on their hands (and for adults this can help too before sleep because people scratch in their sleep.
What about times when despite the antihistmaines, creams etc you STILL itch? What then?Scratching the rash whether it’s red papules, raised welts or other configurations is not advised because for on thing you can get a bacterial infection. Too add an infection and possibly mersa on top of everything else would be a grreat deal to cope with.
Are you able to restrain yourself when driving and soemone cuts you off? Are you able to control anger in work situations when you are wronged? These are related because there is a part of us that can detach or distance ourselves from something - whether it is physical pain or an itch or whether it’s something mental such as criticism or someone’s distance from us.
Meditation is helpful to gain some self-mastery. There are studies that show that itching from eczema or hives or any chronic skin problem is actually reduced when we breathe slower and relax our bodies. We do know that itching and some skin rashes can get more inflamed by stress. Watch your mind and see how it effects the itching. Be proud of yourself when you don’t scratch. Of course, try to get to the root of the itch or rash and use something to treat it whether it’s a natural, herbal approach or prescriptions from a dermatologist. And if it is an ongoing problem get another opinion if you don’t feel you are being helped.
