Have you ever experienced an intense itching sensation on your upper arms, especially after sun exposure? This persistent discomfort could be due to a skin condition called pruritus brachioradialis. While the name might sound complicated, it simply refers to a condition that causes itchy, irritated skin on the upper arms, usually triggered by factors like dry skin, sun exposure, and nerve irritation.
In this blog, we're going to explore:
-
What pruritus brachioradialis is and its causes
-
How to identify the symptoms and differentiate it from other skin conditions
-
Treatment options to help relieve itchiness and prevent flare-ups
Read on to learn more about this common condition and how to keep your skin healthy and comfortable.
What is Pruritus Brachioradialis?
Pruritus brachioradialis, often referred to as brachioradialis pruritus, is a condition that primarily affects the upper arms. The hallmark of this condition is intense itching, typically on the forearms and upper arms, which is often exacerbated by sun exposure. It is not caused by an allergic reaction but rather by irritation of the nerve endings in the skin. The irritation leads to abnormal sensations like itching or even a burning sensation.
Who gets Pruritus Brachioradialis?
While the condition is more common in individuals with fair skin, the condition can affect anyone. It can also occur in people with certain underlying conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, or a history of sunburns. It is important to note that a single factor does not always cause this condition; sometimes, it can be triggered by a combination of environmental and internal factors.
Symptoms of Pruritus Brachioradialis
If you experience intense itching on your arms, especially after sun exposure, you might be dealing with pruritus brachioradialis. The itching is usually localized to the upper arms, although it may also extend to the forearms. The affected areas might appear dry, red, or rash-like. Other symptoms may include:
-
Burning or tingling sensation on the skin
-
A feeling of tightness or discomfort in the skin
-
Increased sensitivity to touch or temperature
-
A flare-up of existing skin conditions, such as contact dermatitis or atopic dermatitis
Sometimes, the itching can become so intense that it may lead to scratching, worsening the condition and even causing skin damage. It is important to resist the urge to scratch to avoid further irritation.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to pruritus brachioradialis. One of the most common causes is sun exposure. UV rays can irritate the skin, leading to an itchy rash or sensation. Additionally, nerve irritation in the cervical spine (neck area) can play a significant role in triggering pruritus symptoms. This irritation may result from nerve damage or compression in the spinal cord, leading to abnormal sensations in the arms.
Other risk factors for pruritus brachioradialis include:
Dry skin
If your skin is not properly moisturized, it can become more prone to irritation and itching.
Underlying medical conditions
Conditions such as autoimmune diseases, liver disease, or psychiatric conditions like anxiety can exacerbate pruritus symptoms.
Use of oral medications
Certain medications, including prescription drugs like oral steroids or tricyclic antidepressants, can cause itching as a side effect.
Age-related changes
Older adults are often more prone to developing pruritus due to changes in skin and nerve function, a condition known as senile pruritus.
How to Relieve Itchy Skin and Prevent Flare-Ups
If you're dealing with pruritus brachioradialis, there are several ways to manage the condition and relieve itching:
Keep your skin moisturized
Our Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream is an excellent option for managing the dryness and irritation caused by pruritus brachioradialis. Formulated with natural ingredients, including the powerful benefits of manuka honey, this cream deeply hydrates and calms itchy, inflamed skin - which can be especially helpful after sun exposure.
Protect your skin from the sun
Sun exposure is a common trigger for pruritus brachioradialis, so protecting your skin is essential. Our Remedywear™ Shirt for Adults and Kids is a soft, breathable garment designed to keep you cool and comfortable while helping to manage itchy, irritated skin. Made from TENCEL fabric with zinc-embedded fibers, the shirt soothes sensitive skin, calms flare-ups, and even helps prevent bacterial growth and odor. Plus, Remedywear provides 35-50+ UV protection, making it an excellent choice for shielding your skin from the sun's harmful rays and reducing the risk of irritation caused by prolonged sun exposure.
Try Wet wrap therapy
Wet wrap therapy is a simple yet effective way to relieve pruritus brachioradialis and other itchy skin conditions. This technique involves applying a gentle moisturizer to the affected area, then covering it with a damp layer followed by a dry layer to lock in hydration and soothe irritation. Remedywear™ sleeves are an excellent choice for wet wrap therapy, as they are made from soft TENCEL fabric infused with antimicrobial and antibacterial zinc oxide fibers. They're great for targetting hard-to-reach areas like the elbow creases.
Find Comfort and Restore Your Skin
Managing pruritus brachioradialis involves a combination of effective skincare, proper sun protection, and appropriate medical treatments when needed. With consistent care, you can restore your skin's health and achieve lasting relief from itching and irritation.
