What are the causes and treatment methods for itchy skin on the back in elderly people?

Skin itching on the back in older adults may be caused by skin aging, dry environment, eczema, contact dermatitis, or pruritus. Symptoms can be improved through moisturizing care, environmental adjustments, and medical treatment. If itching persists or worsens, or is accompanied by rashes or flaking, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Skin aging: With age, sebaceous gland function declines in elderly individuals, leading to reduced oil secretion, faster moisture loss, and weakened skin barrier function, resulting in dryness and itching on the back. It is recommended to bathe daily with lukewarm water, avoid excessive cleansing, and apply a gentle body lotion immediately after bathing to keep the skin hydrated.

2. Dry environment: Insufficient air humidity, combined with heating in winter or air conditioning in summer, accelerates moisture loss from the back skin and triggers itching. It is advisable to use a humidifier to increase indoor humidity and wear loose, breathable cotton clothing to minimize skin friction and irritation.

3. Eczema: Inflammation occurs when the skin barrier is compromised and exposed to internal or external irritants, causing red patches, papules on the back, along with intense itching, dryness, and flaking. Under medical guidance, patients may use calamine lotion, desonide cream, loratadine tablets, or similar medications to relieve symptoms.

4. Contact dermatitis: Exposure to allergens such as synthetic fabrics or irritating personal care products can cause redness and itching on the back, possibly accompanied by mild swelling and papules. Under a doctor’s supervision, patients may use hydrocortisone butyrate cream, tacrolimus ointment, cetirizine tablets, or similar medications to alleviate discomfort.

5. Pruritus: Triggered by factors like vitamin deficiency and dry skin, this condition causes persistent itching on the back without obvious rashes, often worsening at night and disrupting sleep. As directed by a physician, patients may use vitamin E cream, urea ointment, ebastine tablets, or similar treatments to improve symptoms.

Avoid excessively hot water during bathing, choose mild and non-irritating personal care products, maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and hydration, wear loose and breathable clothing, and keep the back skin clean and well-moisturized to reduce triggers of itching.