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What causes itching of the skin on the lower leg?

Sep 22, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Itchy skin on the lower legs may be caused by dry skin, lifestyle habits, urticaria, eczema, varicose veins, or other reasons. It is important to keep the skin adequately moisturized, avoid excessive cleansing and the use of irritating products, and maintain healthy lifestyle habits such as regular physical activity and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting, in order to reduce the risk of itchy skin on the lower legs.

Skin itching on the lower leg is generally caused by factors such as dry skin, lifestyle habits, urticaria, eczema, or varicose veins. If the above conditions occur, it is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Dry Skin

In dry environments, during seasonal changes, or after frequent use of hot water for bathing, skin moisture is more easily lost, leading to itching. Applying a moisturizing body lotion regularly can help maintain hydration and prevent dryness.

2. Lifestyle Habits

Excessive cleansing, using harsh cleaning products, wearing tight clothing, or prolonged standing or walking may damage the skin barrier and cause itching on the lower legs. It is important to avoid using irritating products and wearing overly tight clothes in daily life.

3. Urticaria (Hives)

Urticaria can be triggered by food, medications, infections, and other factors. It causes blood vessel dilation and increased permeability in the skin, resulting in hive-like lesions. When occurring on the lower legs, it often causes intense itching, possibly accompanied by episodic itchiness. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, ebastine tablets, or compound glycyrrhizin tablets.

4. Eczema

Eczema may be triggered by climate changes or contact with irritants. It impairs the skin’s barrier function, stimulating nerve endings and causing the aforementioned symptoms. It may be accompanied by redness, papules, and other symptoms. Treatment should be conducted under medical guidance using topical medications such as desonide cream, mometasone furoate cream, or tacrolimus ointment.

5. Varicose Veins

Varicose veins may be related to genetic factors, prolonged standing, or sedentary behavior. This condition leads to poor blood circulation in the lower legs, causing local skin malnutrition and accumulation of metabolic waste, which in turn triggers itching. Symptoms may also include swelling and hardening. Patients should follow medical advice and take medications such as diosmin tablets, enteric-coated aspirin tablets, or propranolol hydrochloride tablets.

To reduce the risk of lower leg skin itching, it is important to keep the skin moderately moisturized, avoid excessive cleansing and the use of irritating products, and maintain healthy lifestyle habits—such as engaging in moderate physical activity and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting.

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