How long does hells itch last?

Don’t be fooled by the name. There are certain things in life that sound like they might not be that bad, but then you try them and…well…now you’re eternally damned to an itch so torturous it feels like something straight out of Dante’s Inferno.

If you’ve experienced hells itch before, then welcome to this solidarity-infused article in which we’ll discuss just how long this demonic affliction lasts for:

What is Hells Itch?

Just imagining the sensation of tiny needles pricking every inch of your sunburnt skin probably sends shivers up your spine (and down into another uncomfortable body region).

The thing is, when it comes to the condition known as “hells itch,” those sharp prickles are more than enough cause for genuine panic.

As a victim once put it:

Hell’s Itch – I’d rather get kicked in the testicles repeatedly than experience that searing, fiery pain again.”

Nice imagery there. But anyway…

Hells itch isn’t just ‘an annoying inconvenience’ or ‘a mild discomfort.’ Oh no my friend, it’s a rare type of maddeningly intense itching, burning sensation caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from either sunlight or artificial tanning beds.

And here lies the paradox:

While most people assume that a serious sunburn only afflicts fair-skinned individuals who haven’t used sunscreen lotion properly – ~~some~~ many unlucky folks with darker skin tones have also been victims.

When does hells itch occur?

Two words: delayed onset. In other words; You get burnt > All seems fine > 24-72 hours later BOOM! Shenanigans ensue.

Do bear in mind though – this can vary from person-to-person; some poor souls may begin sensing Satan’s wrath after even more extended periods (up to a week), while others might experience hells itch as soon the day following sunburn.

How To Tell If It’s Hells Itch Or Just Normal Sunburn?

If you’re reading this and have already experienced hells itch, then no doubt these sensation-induced flashbacks are washing over you like waves of nausea at each passing sentence. But for those reading in preparation; here’s what to keep an eye out for:

  • The affected area suddenly becomes/have become very itchy (usually once the skin begins to peel).
  • This is usually a sign that blisters are developing under the surface of your burns.

Warning:

Even if there isn’t any physical indication such as redness or peeling yet, don’t be lulled into a false sense of security! You may not have experienced the worst symptoms yet but comrades let me inform you today – OH BOY THEY’RE COMING.

It’ll start off feeling similar to normal sunburn sensations maybe slightly pricklier…but just wait till we roll around later down below…

Wait…it Gets Worse? How Long Does It Last?

Yes, Ahaha real funny making fools outta us human beings who dare take on mother nature one UV ray at a time.

When it comes down to how long this infuriating madness lasts…the answer is not quite so simple.

ALAS!

The short (and irritating) response is: “It varies.”

So I suppose now would probably be a good time for me to discuss some things that play into our query folks:

Depends On Severity

“My cousin had hells itch before and they said it was gone within three days,” says one person online.

The problem with this statement however is that severity varies by individual case drastically. Whilst some people might feel better within hours from applying menthol cooling gell (more on that later); others can suffer the effects of hells itch for days, even a week and beyond.

Depends On Treatment

The most unfortunate part about this condition is how no matter what you try at home, it feels like trying to put out a fire with gasoline.

These ineffective remedies might include: applying everything under the sun from toothpaste to shaving cream; running ice cubes over or scratching without mercy; even attempting several (hundred) push-ups naked in the living room whilst watching Anger Management.

Whilst some ointments, lotions or creams may provide temporary relief if they don’t work well enough upfront…well, let’s just say you’ve agreed to attend your very own 24-hour marathon of misery.

Can You Treat Hells Itch At Home?

Long story short – Yes… but options are limited. Below are some suggestions that people have claimed helped alleviate symptoms:

Option Details
Cool Bath/Shower Soak yourself in cool water for extended periods.
Aloe Vera Or Apple Cider Vinegar Lotion Tried and tested by many victims suffering similarly.
Aspirin Tablets Dissolved In Water To Make A Paste Apply Topically On The Affected Areas Disclaimer: Ingredient-wise all aspirins created equal but dosage directions may differ therefore please use discretion Aspirin sensitivity is rare but not unheard of so as always consult your Doctor beforehand especially if pregnant.(Give us a break will ya?)
-But Most notably…
– If you’re really desperate:
>(Please don’t leave) Are there any other exit doors? Well yes actually…There’s this purple pill/capsule called Diphenhydramine HCI (generic equivalent). Supposedly it knocks-out hells itch within 30 mins! But word-on-the-street says only take them once near bedtime with no high-energy activities due to drowsiness…

But remember, not everything works for everyone so exercise caution and seek professional advice if you’re concerned.

When Should You See A Doctor?

Of course, there comes a point where a trip to the doctor is probably in order. Hell’s itch can be unbearable or may lead to more serious long-term effects such as scarring.

Hells itch victims that should seek immediate consultation:
– If your skin has become infected,
– Is spreading from the burnt area,
– Or show other abnormal symptoms.

The phrase “Ignorance is bliss” certainly does not apply here HELL NO! (pun intended).

If you’ve gone and gotten yourself sunburnt then…best of luck my friend? But know that if hells itch shows up….well let’s just say it’s like winning Satan Roulette -you never really know when he’s gonna fire his next shot.

Keep dumb home remedies further than arm-length away unless you’re ready for potential consequences..

Final tip:

Wear Sunscreen; Not even once did we mention preventions methods which given how quick it takes to get sun burnt speaks volume on this topic alone.

And by God people —Try wearing attire shielded from excessive direct sunlight exposure altogether next time Sally!

Anyway hope ya found this article at least somewhat Helpful Bye For now 🙂

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