An itchy sensation under the cast may seem unbearable, but there are a few ways to find some relief and prevent it from recurring. Damaging or putting objects under the cast can only make it worse, so find other solutions to get rid of the itch.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Finding Relief
Step 1. Blow cold air into the plaster with a hair dryer
Set the appliance to blow out cold air, because lukewarm or very hot air can make symptoms worse or burn the skin; tries to direct the flow of air between the rigid bandage and the epidermis.
Step 2. Generate vibrations by tapping or dabbing the plaster
Using a wooden spoon or your hand, you can find itch relief with vibrations. Those created by tapping on the bandage are much safer than sticking an object between the skin and the bandage.
Step 3. Massage the exposed skin that is next to the cast
By moving the area around the itchy spot, you can reduce the discomfort. just be careful not to touch painful areas. The massage generates tactile sensations that distract attention from itching.
In addition, it increases circulation in the part covered by the plaster, accelerating its healing
Step 4. Quickly cool the bandage with an ice pack
By wrapping an airtight bag of ice around the cast, you can enjoy the refreshing sensation that reduces itching. Consider using an unopened package of frozen vegetables as an alternative to an ice pack. Make sure that the condensation that forms on the surface of the compress does not transfer to the plaster.
Step 5. Discuss medication with your doctor
You could take over-the-counter antihistamines or the prescription version. Medicines such as Benadryl reduce itching when other remedies have failed to produce significant results and work by calming the body's reaction to skin irritants.
Part 2 of 3: Avoid Irritants
Step 1. Do not use tools that could cause an infection or get caught in the bandage
Do not stick any objects between the skin and the cast to calm the itching; scratching in this way can tear the skin and cause an infection. You may also find yourself needing to see your doctor again and / or put on a new cast if the object gets stuck. These tools include:
- Chopsticks for food;
- Pencils and other writing implements;
- Metal hangers.
Step 2. Limit the use of skin powders and lotions
Both of these substances reduce perspiration, but should only be used on the uncovered part of the skin so that it remains clean and soft. If you put powders such as talcum powder under the stiff bandage, they can become encrusted and cause sores. If the plaster smells a little like sweat, be aware that this is completely normal, but if you notice an unpleasant or strange smell, you need to see your doctor.
Step 3. Stop yanking or tearing the padding
As much as the itchiness is severe discomfort, damaging the cotton lining or loosening the bandage only makes it worse. In some cases, the cotton lining is used to protect the epidermis from the blade that is used to remove the plaster; without this element, the skin could be scratched during the procedure.
Part 3 of 3: Preventing the Itch
Step 1. Avoid getting the plaster wet
The bandage should stay away from water and moisture. Although the skin can get a little clammy from sweating, there are ways to minimize contact with water:
- Wash in the bathtub leaving your arm or leg bandaged out of the water. If you need to protect the plaster with a plastic cover while you wash, use duct tape to attach several layers of waterproof protection.
- Don't walk or sit still in the water when you have a cast.
- Protect the cast sock before walking in the rain or snow; you should only take it off when bathing or sleeping.
Step 2. Reduce sweating or excessive perspiration
Minimize the time spent in warm and sunny environments because you would sweat more. Strenuous exercise should be done in a controlled climate so as not to sweat and to prevent moisture from triggering itching.
Step 3. Make sure that the plaster does not get dirty on the inside with dust, sand or mud
Any grainy material that gets stuck between the epidermis and the bandage can generate severe irritation and make the discomfort worse; make sure that the plaster is always clean and dry.
Use a damp cloth and abrasive powder to remove stains from the bandage. Remember to brush chalk crumbs or other foreign matter off the edge of the bandage but do not move or change the padding. Do not break or cut the edges of the plaster
Step 4. See your doctor if you have any major problems
Although itching is a rather depressing discomfort, it is nevertheless quite common; beware of possible complications, for example:
- Sores caused by the bandage being too tight or not well placed on the limb
- Strange, unpleasant musty smells that come from plaster after it has been wet for a long time;
- Compartment syndrome manifesting as numbness in the limb, cold or pale skin with a bluish tint, increased pain, stinging or burning sensation;
- Fever or skin problems along the edges of the stiff bandage
- Breaks, cracks or subsidence of the plaster;
- The bandage gets very dirty;
- Feel blisters or ulcers under the cast.
Warnings
- When you're done using the hair dryer to find some relief, remember to unplug.
- If you are concerned about itchy skin, how to handle the cast, or if your symptoms get worse, see your doctor.
