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GENERAL PRURITUS pruritus - Coggle Diagram
GENERAL PRURITUS
DEFINITION
Unpleasant sensation provoking desire to scratch
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
More pruritus is produced.
High levels of pruritus results in more scratching.
Histamine is released.
Itching is stimulated
Epidermal nerve endings are irritated.
Skin makes contact with triggering substances
CAUSES
Allergic reaction to certain substances eg. cosmetics
Certain pregnancies
Nerve disorders eg diabetes mellitus
Psychiatric disorders eg anxiety
Underlying internal diseases eg. liver failure
Fungal infection
Disorders of iron metabolism
Adverse drug reactions
Uraemia
CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS
Leathery skin
Blisters
Redness
Dry, cracked skin
Bleeding skin after scratching
MANAGEMENT
Phototherapy to keep itching under control
Application of corticosteroids on affected areas.
PHARMACOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT
Antihistamines eg Benadryl, Hydroxyzine
Second generation of antihistamines egLoratadine
DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES
Testing for thyroid function eg hyperthyroidism
Chest X-ray to show enlarged lymph nodes.
Full blood count to identify internal cause.
NURSING MANAGEMENT
Diagnosis
Deficient information about condition
Frequent urge to scratch skin.
Intervention
Use anti-itch creams for all the types of pruritus
Use corticosteroids for inflammatory conditions.
Pat instead of scratching your body
Administer antihistamines as prescribed
Avoid causative substances causing pruritus
Continuous counselling to prevent suicide.
Drink fluids to stay hydrated
Take shot showers to prevent dryness.
DIET
Bananas, high in potassium
Seeds
Omega 3 fish oils.
Oily fish
Beed of chicken broth
HEALTH EDUCATION
Bath with warm and not hot water.
Avoid certain fabrics causing skin irritation
Use sunscreen for preventing sunburn
Use mild soaps to prevent skin irritation
Moisturize to prevent dry skin.
Use light weight clothing preventing sensational itching.
REFERENCES
www.gogglescholar.com Assessed online[assessed 08/12/20202]
https://www.medicinenet.com/skin_problems_pictures_slideshow/article.htm
