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Hello friends
Today the topic is "Dry Skin" Does this sound familiar?
It usually means the skin becomes irritable, dry, probably white and a bit flakey, and definitely itchy. Once scratching starts, it's hard to stop. The more one scratches, (which gives momentary relief), the desire increases. In half an hour one can rip the skin to bits, specially with sharp fingernails. |
CAUSES
Commonest cause is water is being sucked form the upper skin layers. This is worse in cool weather (when there is minimum water in the atmosphere,) but any time is possible. Other causes are diabetes, often the first symptom, as circulation to the skin reduces may be from glucose clogging arteries. This can be the start of a nightmare. It means you must see your doctor quickly. A sugar test is quick and accurate. 6.0 and over, and you're probably diabetic needing intervention.
Allergy maybe a cause, and frequently produces itchy skin. A scratch with a nail may cause a red stripe to form, often raised and itchy. The so called "histamine reaction". Air conditioning (again sucking moisture from the ambient air), facing heaters (radiators, fires) also aggravate. Over-washing removes oil from superficial sebaceous {fat} glands in the skin. Alkaline soaps play havoc, and should always be avoided.
WHAT TO DO
Don't scratch, even if the desire continues to bug you. Ideally, if itchy, cover with cool face flannels. This shrinks down superficial vessels, moves histamine on its way, and reduces irritation quickly. Drink lots of cool water (not sugary chemicalised fizz drinks).
Use a non alkaline cleanser - not soap. Dove, pH 5.5, Ego QV bar are all good, and do not irritate. Reduce frequency of washing. If showering, end with cool. Dab body with a soft towel, Dab, do not rub which aggravates. Avoid direct heat from any source, natural or artificial. Any urea 10% cream helps retain water in skin. Glycerine and sorbelene help, so do a variety of other application from a pharmacist. A mild cortisone cream is also helpful in some.
ACCOMMODATION
By the way, if it's time you (or your mum and dad, rellies, ageing friends) are finding the home too big, garden a burden, it maybe time to "move on." Lovely "Vimiera Village" at 217 Vimiera Road, Eastwood, is the answer. Independent Living Units (1, 2 bedroom or 2 beds and den) are on the list. Lovely parkland surroundings.
The "Assisted Living" apartments provide all meals, linen provided and laundered weekly, domestic work carried out, 24/7 on call for emergencies, on site management, and lots of new friends (or retain your own privacy.)
Elevators, ramps, hand rails, good lighting inside and outside, and car packing. Near Macquarie Centre and public transport. Speak to David on 02 9868 7544, email david@macf.org.au. Log onto "Vimieravillage.com.au" (Operated by Medi Aid Centre Foundation a non profit PBI).
Good wishes until next month from your friend,
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