Treatments for Notalgia Paresthetica: Using Capsaicin, Lidocaine, and Menthol Ointments
Notalgia paresthetica, a chronic nerve-related condition that causes intense itching on the back, is often overlooked as a long-term neurological condition. However, recent dermatology resources suggest that topical creams can provide effective relief for the key symptom of this condition - persistent itching and inflammation.
Over-the-counter (OTC) anti-itch creams such as CeraVe and Sarna Anti-Itch Cream have been used to provide symptomatic relief in notalgia paresthetica cases. These products usually contain ingredients like menthol, pramoxine, or camphor, which help soothe the itching sensation by providing a cooling and mild anesthetic effect on the skin.
Topical corticosteroids such as triamcinolone 0.1% cream, applied twice daily, can also be prescribed to reduce inflammation that may contribute to itching. However, prolonged steroid use is generally discouraged due to risks of skin thinning and pigmentation changes.
Notalgia paresthetica is considered a neuropathic itch disorder, where chronic itching results from irritation or damage to posterior rami of spinal nerves, often in the thoracic region. The topical anti-itch creams target skin nerve endings by modulating sensory nerve signals, thus lowering itch perception. Corticosteroids reduce local inflammation and immune response, which may help decrease nerve irritation and the itch-scratch cycle, but they do not directly treat the nerve damage.
Moisturizers in products like CeraVe improve skin barrier function, which can reduce additional irritation from dryness and scratching, indirectly helping to manage symptoms.
Capsaicin cream, a common topical treatment option for notalgia paresthetica, works to relieve itch-related pain in muscles and joints directly at the site of discomfort. It causes a chemical that is responsible for carrying the pain response to be released into the skin from nerve cells where it is held, creating a stinging sensation which directly counteracts the burning feeling experienced at the affected site, providing immediate relief of pain.
Lidocaine cream, a topical treatment prescribed by doctors or healthcare professionals, causes localized numbness by stopping the nerves in the affected area from sending pain signals to the brain. However, side effects of lidocaine cream can include mild irritation or redness, allergic reactions, cardiac arrest, seizures, nausea, and vomiting.
Menthol creams provide moisture to the skin, which can temporarily protect against dryness and irritation that can contribute to itchiness. They are used to soothe irritated, dry, and itchy skin, and are often recommended for short-term relief from itchiness in people with notalgia paresthetica. However, they are less effective on their own than capsaicin and lidocaine creams in treating notalgia paresthetica.
Different topical creams may work better for different people based on the severity and frequency of pain, sensitivity, and discomfort in notalgia paresthetica. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting any treatment regimen.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Notalgia paresthetica. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/notalgia-paresthetica/symptoms-causes/syc-20371005 [2] National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2021). Notalgia paresthetica. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Notalgia-Paresthetica-Information-Page [3] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). Notalgia paresthetica. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-conditions/notalgia-paresthetica
- Science has revealed that topical creams can offer relief for notalgia paresthetica, a health-and-wellness concern characterized by chronic itching on the back.
- Medications like menthol, pramoxine, or camphor, found in over-the-counter (OTC) anti-itch creams, help soothe the symptoms of notalgia paresthetica by modulating sensory nerve signals and providing a cooling effect on the skin.
- Medical-conditions such as notalgia paresthetica are linked to skin-care issues like itching and inflammation, and can be managed with the correct medication and therapy.
- While using topical creams like lidocaine or capsaicin to treat notalgia paresthetica can provide significant relief, it's crucial to consult with a medical professional before starting any new health-and-wellness regimen, as different treatments may work better for different individuals.
