Dr. Lynn Cates
Specializing in pediatric infectious diseases and childhood immunizations.
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 Ask Dr. Cates
Five-Year-Old with an Itchy Bottom | | | QUESTION | | | Dear Dr. Cates,
My five-year-old son has been very itchy for the last couple of months. The itching is specific to his thighs, buttocks, and pelvic area. There is no visible rash and he does not appear to have dry skin. He already takes Claritin for allergies, so I'm not sure it could be another allergy...I have been treating him with lotion and baby-oil baths, but this does not help. Any suggestions?— Moadd2x | | | ANSWER |
February 7, 2002 | | | Dear Moadd2x,
I'm sorry to hear your son has been itching so much lately--he must be pretty miserable! Although it's not possible for me to know for sure what is causing the itching, and therefore, what would help, two distinct possibilities come to mind. The first is pinworms. These are a very common problem in children your son's age. Children should always be checked for pinworms when they start scratching their bottoms a lot. The other possibility is scabies, which is infestation by tiny parasite in the groin area. Both of these infestations can be treated very readily with special prescription medicines, but the diagnosis will have to be established by your child's healthcare provider first. Another possible cause is itching caused by sizing in new underwear, or sensitivity to new laundry detergents or fabric softeners (especially if they aren't rinsed out thoroughly). I hope that you find the cause and that he gets better soon!— by Lynn Cates, M.D., F.A.A.P. |
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