What causes vulvar itching in elderly women, and how should it be managed?
Sep 24, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Possible causes of vulvar itching in elderly individuals include clothing material irritation, local dryness, poor hygiene habits, senile vaginitis, and trichomonal vaginitis. Treatment may include general measures and medication under the guidance of a physician. It is important to choose comfortable, breathable clothing materials, maintain cleanliness and dryness of the vulvar area, and avoid excessive cleaning that may compromise the skin barrier.
In general, the causes of vulvar itching in elderly individuals may include fabric irritation, local dryness, poor hygiene habits, senile vaginitis, trichomoniasis, and other factors. Treatment options such as general care measures and medications can be adopted under medical guidance. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Fabric Irritation
The skin of elderly individuals is relatively sensitive. If clothing materials are too coarse, non-breathable, or contain irritating chemicals, they may directly contact and irritate the skin of the vulva, causing itching. It is recommended to switch to breathable and comfortable clothing and avoid prolonged sitting.
2. Local Dryness
With age, estrogen levels decline in elderly individuals, leading to reduced vaginal secretions. The vulvar skin loses its natural moisture, becoming dry and more susceptible to external irritation, which can result in itching and impaired self-repair. It is advisable to drink sufficient water to maintain body hydration and avoid excessive cleaning of the vulvar area, which could damage the skin barrier.
3. Poor Hygiene Habits
Due to physical limitations such as reduced mobility or vision impairment, elderly individuals may have inadequate personal hygiene, allowing bacteria to grow in the vulvar area and potentially lead to infections or inflammation, resulting in itching. It is recommended to wash the vulva daily with warm water, keep the area clean and dry, strengthen awareness of personal hygiene, and regularly disinfect personal items such as towels and bathtubs.
4. Senile Vaginitis (Atrophic Vaginitis)
Declining estrogen levels in older adults cause thinning and atrophy of the vaginal mucosa, reducing resistance. Changes in the vaginal environment and microbial imbalance can trigger inflammation, possibly leading to vulvar itching. This condition is often accompanied by increased vaginal discharge, a burning sensation, and pain during intercourse. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as Baofukang suppositories, Lactobacillus vaginal capsules, or compound metronidazole vaginal suppositories for treatment.
5. Trichomonas Vaginitis
Elderly individuals may contract trichomoniasis through sexual contact or exposure to items contaminated with Trichomonas parasites. The parasites multiply in the vagina, causing an inflammatory response and symptoms including vulvar itching. Additional symptoms may include frequent urination and urgency. Under medical supervision, patients can be treated with oral medications such as metronidazole tablets or tinidazole tablets, or with metronidazole vaginal effervescent tablets.
To prevent vulvar itching, elderly individuals should choose comfortable, breathable clothing, maintain cleanliness and dryness of the vulvar area, avoid over-cleaning and damaging the skin barrier, pay attention to personal hygiene, and regularly disinfect personal items.
