Chronic itching

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by Guest Posts on Mon Apr 06, 2020 2:13 pm

Chronic itching

Hi
Several weeks after returning from the Sahara in 1969 I developed extreme itching in the genital area. It developed into a putrescent mass (can't think of better description) could not walk for a long period. Local dermatology hospital diagnosed tinea cruris.
It eventually went away after treatment but reappears every now and again.
I am now in another period of it for about 3 years and would describe itching as chronic. have tried ALL over the counter products plus Dactacort with no success. Cannot persuade my GP to refer me to local Dermatological clinic for scraping and analysis.
Beginning to wonder if it is not tinea but something else.
Any suggestions would be welcome, I am male and 84 years of age.

Regards

Robin
talkhealth team on behalf of a guest visitor

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Dr Alia Ahmed
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by Dr Alia Ahmed on Thu Apr 09, 2020 7:06 pm

Re: Chronic itching

Thank you for contacting us. I am sorry that you have had symptoms for such a long time without any successful treatment. It is difficult to diagnose this problem based on the history and without examining, but if it is chronic and not responding to conventional treatments then your GP may consider referring you to a dermatology department. You mention that this has not happened so far. It may be helpful to discuss with your GP how the problem is impacting your quality of life. The lack of definitive diagnosis is another reason to be referred to a specialist. Itch is a complicated problem that often requires a multisystem approach. In psychodermatology clinics we see itch quite regularly, our approach includes medical treatments and psychological interventions to help control/manage itching. I hope your GP is able to refer you to an appropriate service. Maybe you can show them this post! I hope this information is helpful. I wish you all the very best.
Dr Alia Ahmed
Consultant Dermatologist - BSc MRCP

http://www.talkhealthpartnership.com/on ... _ahmed.php

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Ben Choi
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by Ben Choi on Thu Apr 09, 2020 7:31 pm

Re: Chronic itching

If you're taking the advice suggested by Alia it might also help to specifically mention everyday activities that are affected by your skin. Think of your everyday routines, you could mention washing and dressing in the morning, cooking and eating, physical exercise, walking or mobilising around your home, work or voluntary roles, possibly your relationships and your mental health, if indeed any of these are impacted by your skin. GP's see a lot of people with various skin complaints, so this might help explain just how much it is impacting your everyday life.

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