Itching in Special Cases (Pregnancy, Children, Elderly)

Itching can behave differently and carry different risks in pregnancy, childhood and older age.

Pregnancy

• Stretching skin on the belly often itches. Moisturisers help.
• Pregnancy rashes such as PUPPP cause itchy red bumps, usually on the stretch marks.
• Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy causes strong itching, often on the palms and soles, worse at night, mostly in the third trimester. It can affect the baby. See your doctor or hospital the same day for blood tests.
• Check before using any cream, tablet or herb. Do not use steroid creams or herbal pastes without advice.

Children

• Common causes are eczema, insect bites, scabies, lice, worms and heat rash.
• Keep nails short and use plain moisturisers and cotton clothes.
• Do not give adult medicines or steroid creams without a paediatrician.
• Do not use herbal remedies on infants unless a paediatrician advises, and never give honey under 12 months.
• Do not put oils or drops in a child's eyes or ears.
• See a doctor if itching disturbs sleep, the skin is infected or the child has fever.

Older adults

• Dry skin is the most common cause.
• Medicines, kidney or liver disease, diabetes, thyroid problems and iron deficiency are also frequent.
• Sedating antihistamines can cause confusion, falls and drowsiness. Ask a doctor before using them.
• Long-lasting itching without a rash needs blood tests.

Ayurvedic note

Ayurveda adapts care by age and constitution. Any herbal use in pregnancy, childhood or old age should be guided by a qualified practitioner, as an adjunct only.

Key point

Itching in these groups needs extra care, and pregnancy itching in particular needs prompt medical review.

Before your appointment

Note when the itching began, where it is, what makes it better or worse, and whether it is worse at night. List all medicines, creams, herbs and soaps you use, and any new foods or products. Mention others at home with itching, rash, weight loss, night sweats, yellow eyes, dark urine or tiredness. Bring photos of any rash that comes and goes. Ask about tests, the safest treatment and the signs that need urgent care. Call 112 for swelling of the face or lips or trouble breathing.