Medical Questions > Major skin conditioin
2-3 years is a very long time to endure a skin condition causing itching and pus without having it assessed and treated. We can appreciate that the patient is not satisfied, but it is never possible to offer opinions without an examination and investigations and/or tests being carried out. As this is not possible over the Internet we would urge the patient to be assessed and investigated by a dermatologist (skin specialist) as only when there is a diagnosis can appropriate treatment be started.
The bleeding may possibly be caused by scratching. Skin bumps and itching with pus formation possibly indicate some type of skin infection. Aging reduces the capacity of the skin to moisturize itself, so the skin becomes dry. Dry skin is one of the major causes of itchiness in aging skin: the pattern can vary considerably from person to person. What's more, signs and symptoms of dry skin depend on age, health status, where on the body it occurs, the amount of time spent outdoors, and the cause of the problem. Other causes of itchy skin often require the attention of a dermatologist. Elderly skin is sometimes more sensitive to clothing fabrics (especially wool), soaps and detergents, and other items encountered in everyday living. Identification of the sensitizing agents and limiting exposure to them may reduce the itchiness. Allergies to a host of indoor and outdoor agents may cause itching. Some medications cause itchiness as a side effect. Severe itching as well as itching that does not respond to moisturizing should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
Also, as people age, the skin becomes thinner and fat padding under the skin is lost. Thus, blood vessels are less protected from injury. An injury inflicted by mild trauma - for example, bumping against a table or being hit by a tennis ball - may result in a substantial bruise. In some instances, bruising may be an indication of an underlying condition. Bruises that appear for no apparent reason may indicate a bleeding disorder. Anti-clotting medications may cause bleeding under the skin. To help prevent these knocks, extra protection should be worn on limbs, especially when outside, gardening etc. Good eyesight can also help prevent bumping into objects.
These related links may be of interest.
http://www.chic.org.uk/chicmco/feelingunwell/skinandscalp.htm
http://www.cnn.com/HEALTH/library/HQ/00355.html
http://www.medicinenet.com/bruises/article.htm
The bleeding may possibly be caused by scratching. Skin bumps and itching with pus formation possibly indicate some type of skin infection. Aging reduces the capacity of the skin to moisturize itself, so the skin becomes dry. Dry skin is one of the major causes of itchiness in aging skin: the pattern can vary considerably from person to person. What's more, signs and symptoms of dry skin depend on age, health status, where on the body it occurs, the amount of time spent outdoors, and the cause of the problem. Other causes of itchy skin often require the attention of a dermatologist. Elderly skin is sometimes more sensitive to clothing fabrics (especially wool), soaps and detergents, and other items encountered in everyday living. Identification of the sensitizing agents and limiting exposure to them may reduce the itchiness. Allergies to a host of indoor and outdoor agents may cause itching. Some medications cause itchiness as a side effect. Severe itching as well as itching that does not respond to moisturizing should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
Also, as people age, the skin becomes thinner and fat padding under the skin is lost. Thus, blood vessels are less protected from injury. An injury inflicted by mild trauma - for example, bumping against a table or being hit by a tennis ball - may result in a substantial bruise. In some instances, bruising may be an indication of an underlying condition. Bruises that appear for no apparent reason may indicate a bleeding disorder. Anti-clotting medications may cause bleeding under the skin. To help prevent these knocks, extra protection should be worn on limbs, especially when outside, gardening etc. Good eyesight can also help prevent bumping into objects.
These related links may be of interest.
http://www.chic.org.uk/chicmco/feelingunwell/skinandscalp.htm
http://www.cnn.com/HEALTH/library/HQ/00355.html
http://www.medicinenet.com/bruises/article.htm
July 28, 2006 |
Heather RN
Heather RN
Condition began 2-3 years ago.
Ugly large areas with bumps,puss,blood and itching on arms and legs. Recently lower legs turned dark blue, with a decided band around leg. Body scan showed good circulation. Advised by physican probable cause dry thin skin. Not satisfied!!
Anyone with similar condition?