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What is the treatment for my chronic itching and irritation?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 65-year-old female. I have been dealing with a skin infection for one year. There is itching and irritation on the skin. What steps should I take to manage this?

Kindly advise.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand how distressing it can be to have itching and irritation for almost a year, especially at this age. From the image (attachment removed to protect the patient’s identity), it appears similar to eczema.

However, a few important details are needed before confirming the diagnosis. Please specify which areas of the body are involved (for example, hands, legs, abdomen, or skin folds), whether there is any fluid discharge, crusting, thickening of the skin, or change in skin color, and whether the itching becomes worse at night.

Also mention if there is a history of diabetes mellitus (high blood sugar), thyroid disease, kidney disease, liver disease, or regular use of any medications. Kindly confirm whether a dermatologist has been consulted previously and whether any creams were prescribed, especially topical corticosteroids.

I would suggest the following measures for symptomatic relief of itching:

  • Levocetirizine 5 milligrams once daily in the morning and Cetirizine 10 milligrams at bedtime may be taken, unless contraindicated by other medical conditions.

  • A petroleum-based moisturizer should be applied generously to the affected areas at least twice daily, especially after bathing.

  • Use a mild, fragrance-free soap, and avoid scented or harsh medicated cleansers. Keep the skin well moisturized, avoid hot showers, and wear loose cotton clothing.

Once the above details are clarified, it will be easier to determine whether this condition is eczema, a fungal infection, contact dermatitis, or another chronic skin disorder, and treatment can be adjusted accordingly.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.

Answered byDr. Misha Saghir

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At March 31, 2026
Reviewed AtApril 1, 2026

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