Dad has leg edema which causes his skin to be discolored, hard and itchy. It’s the itchiness that is driving him crazy. Any tips on how we can alleviate the itchiness?
As a background, his cardiologist has already examined him for underlying causes and said that it is due to weakness of his veins. Doc told him to elevate his legs and exercise to manage the symptoms. Doc has ruled out using compression stockings. Dad can’t keep his legs elevated while sitting due to physical inflexibility. He also doesn’t want to sleep on the bed with his legs propped up. Any ideas?
2. Ask the doctor if there are any recommended over the counter creams that they suggest. Creams are better than lotions as they are a bit thicker and last a bit longer. Apply the cream after a shower or bath when the skin is moist already as it will help keep the moisture in.
3. Massage might help.
4. The doctor is right exercise will help even one of the bike pedal type things that you can place on the floor in front of you while you are on a chair. And obviously walking will help.
It isn't usually on the shelf anywhere, but you can ask your pharmacy to order it. (Even Amazon doesn't carry it.) It doesn't require a prescription, but it's faster and easiest to just get it through a pharmacy. It usually arrives with their supplies the next day.
Honestly, getting rid of that fluid that is destroying the elasticity remaining in older skin is the only answer, while some creams and lotions, lubriderm, eucerin, may assist. I haven't heard of the cream MJ mentioned, but if nurses use it is most certainly worth a try.
I wish you great good luck.