How to treat lichen simplex chronicus?

Do you have an irresistible urge to scratch your skin all the time? Does it feel like there are ants crawling under your skin and you just can’t help but itch? Do not worry, my friend! What you might be suffering from is lichen simplex chronicus. This irritating condition affects almost 12% of the population and it’s more common in women than men. In this article, we’ll explore what lichen simplex chronicus is, its causes (they’re weird!), symptoms and most importantly how to treat them so that you can finally stop itching.

Understanding Lichen Simplex Chronicus

Lichen simplex chronicus (LSC) is a dermatological condition characterized by thickened patches of scaly skin often caused due to persistent scratching or rubbing on the skin. It usually occurs on areas such as the neck, scalp, ankles, genitals or even around the anus – sounds YUCK! The affected area may also become red, raw or leathery looking. LSC mostly results after prolonged periods of irritation caused by different types of triggers.

The Causes Of LSC (Interesting Insights Here)

The exact cause of lichen simple chronicous cases varies from individual to individuals but here are some known contributing factors:

  • Stressful life events: Your past experiences with trauma centering around relationship issues (love gone bad anyone?) and work pressure does contribute towards causing head-to-head battles between Mr Crotch & his friends.
  • Scabies mites : EWW – So these lil’ buggers lay eggs under your skin stimulate an immune response which leads to inflammation causing itching cue non-stop scratching. Generally found in children and adults who live in crowded conditions.
  • Allergies: Long term allergies especially food-related ones are no joke matey; studies reveal that at times excessive intake & consumption is linked with a flare-up of Lichen Simplex Chronicus.
  • Intense itching (duh): It’s no secret that scratching can bring temporary relief from the itch but this worsens as it leads to skin damage & continuous inflammation.
  • Dry Skin: Excessive loss of skin moisture can lead to dryness and flakiness all over your body – sure much grosser when trying to rock those shorts you know.

If these causes sound like something related with which you’re familiar, let’s move on towards understanding its symptoms and diagnosis.

Symptoms

The main symptom of lichen simplex chronicus is an intense itching sensation in specific areas (cue head-to-crotch scratching moments) particular regions such as the neck, scalp, ankles or anal region become thickened due to persistent scratching or rubbing. The condition usually affects one side of your body initially, then spreads gradually thereby likening it to a war zone! You may also experience other symptoms linked including:

  1. The affected area becomes darker than usual
  2. A leathery appearance due to prolonged irritation
  3. Redness & swelling around the patches could indicate infection(s)
  4. Clusters typically white bumps around hair follicles

Before treatments begin, we must Diagnose!

Diagnosis

Diagnosis for lichen simplex chronicus involves a complete examination by a dermatologist who will comb through different aspects before determining your exact treatment plan that best suits your individual needs –

  • Medical history questionnaires about past medical record enable physicians to have insights into basic lifestyle habits like food choices et al..
  • Skin Biopsy helps uncover minor cellular abnormalities left unchecked aka untreated scarring thus leading towards cancerous growths over time.
  • Blood Tests are given prior tests meant to detect underlying diseases versus simple hotspots / allergies leaving behind skin discolouration

With systematic observation techniques under his/her belt (White lab coats mandatory!), the dermatologist will take you through the various treatment options available for LSC

Treatment Options

One thing to keep in mind is that lichen simplex chronicus appears like a simple condition but it’s actually pretty %^ing frustrating!! At times, This skin disease only yields significant improvement once multiple sessions of treatments are being done continuously. A few of these commonly prescribed treatment techniques include:

Topical Corticosteroids Application (easy-peasy!)

Topical corticosteroids creams ie antihistamines soothe itching sensations quickly when used correctly under doctors’ prescriptions; However with extended use products containing steroids may cause burning around treated areas thus avoiding sensitive spots is crucial.

If this still doesn’t work out, there are other approaches…… (but we don’t recommend sitting on utensils till they callous and grow scales – YEAH!)

Moisturizing (100% rule)

The application of emollients rich in soothing nutrients encourages healing process not just by providing hydration factors but if > used over time can yield an increase in collagen production which strengthens tissue cells regeneration as well. It’s important to note moisturization should be needed regularly daily otherwise drying agents give off signals causing itchings eye roll.

Other than suggested treatments above here are Bonus home remedies that might help!

  1. Use natural aloe gel spread across the affected area for no less than 20 minutes/few hours depending upon severity levels soothens.
  2. Soak tea tree oil mixed w/ warm water bath before bedtime overnight reduces inflammation effectively applying patch does much good washing with cold icy water suffices at initial stages.
  3. Mud baths using magnesium sulfate can reduce sharp pain considerably least ideal form given availabilities either method adequately address LSC.

Treat Underlying Causes

In line with its known causes earlier discussed,(issues related towards pyschological aspects / allergies et al..), treating these signs & symptoms can aid in reducing LSC development to a great extent. When dealing with such issues, it’s always best to consult with experienced professionals who will provide therapy sessions \alongside supportive community engagement you know (this isn’t a taboo!)

Conclusion

Lichen Simplex Chronicus is an irritating skin disorder that affects so many of us out there – sometimes its linked into our daily lives ie scratching et al… What’s important is early investigation and effective treatment techniques are applied immediately itchiness sensation kicks-in mostly focused around soothing mechanisms but if not severe circumstances sooner detect better off rather than enduring irreversible traumatic experiences while seeking solace through remedies/googled remedies.

Hopefully, this article has provided all the answers within your reach regarding” How To Treat Lichen Simplex Chronicus”. Don’t give up because never forget relief comes later after treatments have been used consistently over time!

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