Has anyone experienced an increased sensitivity on their skin?

[SheilaN]

Recently my husband 's skin has become quite sensitive. He winces sometimes when I shave him even though I am applying no more pressure than usual and even if I apply less pressure. Also the carers in the respite unit where he has spent the last few days said he cringed a bit when they were showering him, as if his skin hurt (the water wasn't too hot) and one morning he refused to have a shower and just wanted a damp cloth. Any advice? I understand that with neurological conditions the skin can become very sensitive but wondered if we can overcome the problem?

[Lorri-2]

Hi Sheila

My husband also cringes when his hands touch water. He dislikes the shower as he says that the water is never the same temprature throughout. We wash him with luke warm water using aqueous cream as this seems to calm any itching and treats any dry skin, I have changed from a wet shave to using an electric shaver.

I will be interested if any one else has an answer.

love

Lorraine

[SheilaN in reply to Lorri-2]

Thanks Lorraine. I've never heard of aqueous cream but will have a look for some. Are you in the UK? Does Boots stock it? I'll try anything.

Take care

SheilaN

[Kathy in reply to SheilaN]

Hi Sheila,

You can buy aqueous cream over the counter at most good chemists, but if your husband gets free prescriptions I'd ask your GP to prescribe it for him. Mum doesn't get "sensitivity" but her skin has become very dry and itchy and the aqueous cream really helps with that.

Hope it helps your husband

love Kathy x

[SheilaN in reply to Kathy]

Thanks Kathy.

[Lorri-2]

Hi Sheila

You could look up aqueouscream.org.uk and it explains the pros and cons of using it. I get mine from Superdrug as we live in a small town and the Boots does not stock it. Hope this helps

Love

Lorraine

[SheilaN in reply to Lorri-2]

Thanks Lorraine.

[SheilaN]

Since I posted my question our GP has prescribed Amitriptyline.Fingers crossed.

[PSPA_JillL]

Sensitive skin can be a problem and as it looks like you have you should discuss with your GP. Sometimes as it gets more difficult for people with PSP to communicate they can omit to tell carers about pain and carers have to learn to look for non verbal clues as to what is happening it could be that your husband is wincing because of other more central pain. Monitor how he gets on with the amitriptyline this can be very effective.

[SheilaN]

Thanks Jill.

There is also the possibility that he just hates being manhandled but can't express his frustration of displeasure except by crying out.

Take care

SheilaN