What is the treatment for skin dryness and itching in an 82-year-old patient with diabetes?

Question

Hi doctor,

My 82-year-old father, with 40-year-old history of diabetes, has severe itching in his legs. Sugar is controlled well. The skin is dry and looks normal on the legs. He applied coconut oil with no good results. Due to his itching, his skin sheds and peels. No wound is seen. He is on Nitrocontin, Clopitab, Prolomet, and Dytor. Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. It could be xerosis or xeroderma, or eczema of the legs. It would be best to apply hypoallergic lotion twice daily for 20 days and liquid paraffin lotion once in the daytime for 15 days. I suggest the following medications and lifestyle modifications. Use Cetrimide soap (Cetrimide and Ketoconazole) for a bath for one month. Take Tablet Teczine-M (Levocetirizine and Montelukast) once at night after food for seven days. Wear loose, comfortable thin cotton clothes. Avoid scratching and rubbing lesions as they may cause secondary bacterial infection. Keep the area clean and hydrated. Drink seven to eight glasses of water daily. Maintain proper hygiene. Avoid long bath or shower time. Avoid chronic exposure to harsh soaps and detergents. Avoid extreme weather conditions. Keep a check on sugar levels. Keep sugar levels under control. Is there any sign of inflammation, rash, and swelling? Attach a clinical image if possible. Regards.