Neurodermatitis is a skin condition characterized by a chronic itch-scratch cycle in which the patient experiences itching, scratches, and irritates the skin, which triggers more itching. It can be difficult to treat, because behavior modification on the part of the patient is often required to resolve the issue. Treatment for neurodermatitis can be provided by a dermatologist who can handle the skin irritation, and a psychologist who can help the patient address behavioral issues.
In some cases, neurodermatitis appears to be caused by self injury, commonly as a result of stress. People may compulsively scratch or fret at the skin and scalp, causing scaly lesions to appear, and these lesions will in turn itch, leading the patient to scratch and setting up a cyclical skin problem. Other causes of neurodermatitis include situations which irritate the nerve endings, such as chemical exposure, tight clothing, prolonged pressure, and so forth. In these cases, the irritated nerve endings start sending out a signal that they are itching even when nothing which could cause irritation or an itch is present.
Three therapeutic methods for neurodermatitis in TCM
Syndrome of Wind and Heat Accumulating in the Skin
Therapeutic Methods: Expel wind, clear away heat, relieve exterior and stop pruritus.
Syndrome of Fire Generation by Liver Oi Stagnation
Therapeutic Methods: Soothe the liver, regulate qi, clear away heat and fire.
Syndrome of Blood Deficiency and Wind-Dryness
Therapeutic Methods: Nourish blood, expel wind,moisten the skin and stop pruritus.