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A burning sensation in the joints (usually a burning pain) or in the skin above them occurs very often in many diseases, and not only rheumatological ones.
Sometimes it turns out that this is the first and even the only symptom, so it is worth paying attention to. What is this burning sensation anyway?
This is a kind of pain syndrome that is characteristic of inflammatory processes and acute circulatory disorders. The burning sensation may appear as if inside the joint, or it may be felt on the surface, that is, on the skin. Apart from burns/frostbite and similar situations, we rarely talk about the second option. In most cases, a burning sensation is still felt inside the joint. —>
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Objective grounds
Itching is a sensation accompanied by the need to scratch the skin. There are several opinions about its occurrence:
- irritation of certain pain receptors;
- occurs independently under the influence of mediators - histamine, serotonin, adrenaline, opioids and others.
The second theory is supported by the fact that itching sensations appear only in the superficial layers of the dermis and the mucous membranes adjacent to it, while pain occurs anywhere in the body. In addition, pain and itching can occur in isolation from each other.
Itching can be localized or spread throughout the body. Due to its occurrence, it is divided into:
- propriocevtive - appears due to a violation of the structure of the dermis;
- neuropathic – observed when the nervous system is damaged;
- neurogenic – without damage to the NS;
- psychogenic – mental disorders.
All types of symptoms differ in intensity, duration and place of occurrence.
Itching of the skin of the body often has objective causes and accompanies any disease. First of all, these include skin diseases :
Type of disease | Cause | Why does it itch? | Localization of sensations |
Dermatitis | Nervous stress, exposure to cold, allergens | Small rashes, peeling of the dermis. | Any part of the body |
Dermatophytosis | Fungus | The vital activity of fungi in the upper layers of the skin | Scalp, smooth skin |
Lichen | Fungi and viruses against the background of reduced immunity | Peeling of the epidermis | Scalp |
Pediculosis | Lice | Parasite bite | Head, pubis |
Psoriasis | It is not completely clear. Presumably: low immunity, heredity, infections | Dry, scaly rashes | Elbows, head, lower back, genital mucosa |
Scabies | Mite | Parasite bite and blisters. Accompanied by severe itching, which intensifies in the evening | Interdigital area |
Xerosis | Infections, hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease | Coarsening and peeling of the skin | Any parts of the body |
Neurodermatitis | Stress, allergies, hormonal and digestive disorders | Damage to the top layer of skin | Neck, skin folds, bends of knees, elbows |
Another skin condition that causes "scabies" is eczema . It is believed that it occurs against the background of reduced immunity. It can be triggered by stress, nervous tension, as well as hormonal imbalances and allergic reactions.
Eczema is characterized by the formation of foci of rashes in the form of “wet” blisters and pimples, and in some cases dry ones. The itching in this condition is simply unbearable; it is the main symptom of the pathology. The elements are localized on the neck, head, flexor surfaces of the elbows, ankles and knees.
The skin may itch if there are diseases of the internal organs :
- Kidney - a symptom manifests itself on the skin and in the genital area.
- Liver - spreads to the face and hands, while the skin turns yellow.
- Thyroid – dry, flaky and itchy skin on the hands and face.
- Anemia.
- Diabetes – the skin and mucous membranes of the genital organs begin to itch due to increased blood glucose levels.
- Oncological diseases.
- Hormonal disorders - menopause, pregnancy, menstrual syndrome.
- Viral infections - herpes, AIDS.
- Dehydration.
Causes
Dry nose can have internal or external causes. In the former, it occurs as a symptom of the underlying disease, and in the latter, as an independent health disorder. The problem is provoked by the long-term use of vasoconstrictor drops and a number of medications that affect the functioning of the mucous membranes, and the frequent use of nasal rinses without indications for this, as well as pathologies in its structure.
During the heating season, dry mouth and nose appear due to insufficient air humidity in the room. This situation is corrected by humidifiers that dissipate water vapor, which, when breathing, enters the mucous membranes, which is why it does not become overdry.
Burning sensation and its origin
A burning sensation in the body and limbs manifests itself in the form of tingling, a sensation of heat. It is constantly present throughout the day or has a wave-like character, but, as a rule, does not bother you at night.
The appearance of this symptom is facilitated by damage to the peripheral nerves. This is observed, for example, in diabetes mellitus . In this case, the burning sensation is concentrated primarily in the extremities, followed by tingling and numbness.
Sciatica is an inflammation of the sciatic nerve, accompanied by a burning sensation in the legs up to the foot.
With multiple sclerosis, the burning sensation is combined with tingling. Such an alliance extends to the limbs. One should be wary of their simultaneous occurrence with problems of speech and coordination.
Radiculopathy is damage to the nerve roots of the spinal nerves. In this case, a pathological feeling of heat also occurs in the arms and legs.
Dangerous is the appearance of a burning sensation in one half of the body. Along with other signs, such as unclear speech, headache, blurred vision, delirium, hallucinations, it can be a sign of a stroke .
Heat in the legs often indicates vascular pathology .
Other conditions that can cause this sensation include:
- spider and snake bites;
- poisoning by chemical compounds;
- avitaminosis;
- calcium deficiency;
- burns.
Particular discomfort is caused by itching and burning in a woman’s intimate area (vagina, vulva and perineum).
A burning sensation in the vagina, along with dryness, are manifestations
of menopausal changes or atrophic inflammation . If the cause of the burning sensation is various kinds of discharge, then this indicates candidiasis, inflammatory processes or sexually transmitted diseases .
Moderate itching in the vaginal area may indicate an allergic reaction to latex or medications. The discussed symptoms in the vulva (external genitalia) also appear against the background of sexually transmitted infections . Other reasons may be:
- lice;
- eczema and mycoses;
- tumor-like formations;
- helminthic infestations;
- kidney and liver diseases.
The perineum includes the area around the genitals and anus. The occurrence of unpleasant sensations in it indicates the presence of such conditions :
- helminthic infestations;
- allergy to powder or linen;
- haemorrhoids;
- rectal tumors;
- systemic diseases;
- sexual infections;
- herpes, candida;
- incorrect hygienic approach.
Diagnosis and treatment
If you consult a specialist with complaints of burning in the joints, the doctor will evaluate all other symptoms and medical history, and, based on the data received, will choose an individual diagnostic regimen. In any case, you will most likely need to have an x-ray of the joint, an ultrasound, and several laboratory tests. If a spinal lesion is suspected, an MRI may be ordered, and specific blood tests will be needed to diagnose systemic diseases.
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No one will specifically treat the burning sensation in the joints. Treatment will, of course, be aimed at the underlying disease, which will be determined after a thorough diagnosis. To reduce the inflammatory process and alleviate the patient's condition, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, classical analgesics and, of course, many physiotherapeutic techniques can be used. Particularly effective in this case:
- local exposure to ultrasound;
- magnetic therapy;
- pharmacopuncture.
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Psychogenic nature of burning and itching
The term “psychosomatics” is quite common these days. It is defined as the occurrence of bodily manifestations based on psychological factors.
If during the examination of the patient it is not possible to find objective reasons causing such impressions, the matter is most likely in the mental sphere of the person. Or rather, in its negative manifestations.
For example, itching and burning sensations in the body develop against the background of a stressful situation . If it was a one-time problem, then after it is eliminated, the unpleasant manifestations also disappear.
As for chronic stress , these symptoms may persist or even intensify. This, in turn, increases nervous tension and aggravates the situation. It turns out to be a vicious circle.
There is an understandable explanation for the appearance of skin paresthesias in psychological disorders. With negative emotions, the body increases the production of serotonin and dopamine. It is these neurotransmitters that provoke the occurrence of itching and burning, usually without visible skin elements. But sometimes a rash, dryness and peeling may appear.
Where to go if you have a burning sensation in your chest?
Are you a resident or guest of the capital and are you faced with a similar problem? Contact CELT. Our clinic is multidisciplinary and has departments of various specializations. You can make an appointment with a cardiologist, therapist, neurologist or gastroenterologist and get the help you need.
Our diagnostic department offers ample opportunities for correct diagnosis and identification of pathological conditions in the initial stages of development. Our staff is staffed with highly qualified specialists: doctors of the highest category, candidates and doctors of science with decades of medical practice behind them.
You can find out our prices by going to the “Services and Prices” tab in this section. To avoid misunderstandings, we recommend that you check the numbers with our operators by calling the number.
Senestopathies
Burning, itchy feelings provoked by mental disorders are classified as simple thermal senestopathies.
Senestopathies are a variety of unpleasant, intrusive and exhausting impressions that are concentrated on the surface or inside the body. This concept was first learned about in 1907 thanks to the scientists P. Camus and Dupre.
The peculiarity of this condition from true burning and itching is the rich and elaborate way of describing them. For example, “there is a fire in the head”, “the chest is on fire”. The localization is characterized by an unusual presentation: “itching in the stomach area”, “a vessel in the abdomen is pulsating”.
Such episodes can be isolated, constant or paroxysmal. Sometimes they are so intrusive that they literally drive the patient crazy.
Their characteristic feature is tactile hallucinations. They often manifest themselves in terms of itching and tingling. A person claims that bugs or mites are crawling under his skin. In some cases, he even sees them, or it seems to him that crumbs or sand are stuck to his body.
Such hallucinations provoke obsessive actions. The patient persistently visits doctors or tries to get rid of intrusive parasites on his own: he constantly washes himself and disinfects his body.
Mental disorders that lead to similar senestopathies:
- hypochondria;
- neuroses and depression;
- psychoses and psychopathy;
- oneiroid;
- paranoia;
- affective and delusional disorders, etc.
general characteristics
The burning sensation, according to the subjective perception of most people, is characterized as a feeling of local heat with tingling and tingling. Usually accompanied by local hyperemia, pain and itching, and may be supplemented by the formation of rash elements (papules, blisters), peeling, and weeping of the skin. The burning sensation causes a desire to cool, soothe irritated skin, and sometimes to scratch the affected area, which often leads to worsening symptoms. In some cases, the pathological sensation is manifested by burning pain in one or another part of the body.
Itchy and “hot” sensations in neuroses
Neurosis is a psychogenic nervous disorder associated with emotional, behavioral and somatovegetative disorders. What distinguishes it from other mental illnesses is that the patient is fully aware of the severity of his condition and strives to get rid of it.
A distinction is made between mental and physical neurosis. Physical neurosis, along with psychogenic disorders, also has physical symptoms. There are several varieties of it.
Skin neurosis is manifested by burning and itching of the skin against the background of its bluish, marbled tint. The skin of the joints and legs becomes rough and tightens.
This condition is characterized by changes in sensitivity. It can be reduced or, conversely, increased when unpleasant sensations appear at the slightest touch. With physical neurosis, the skin itches and “burns” in certain areas or throughout the body, becomes wet or dry. Tactile hallucinations are characteristic.
The patient is so bothered by these manifestations that he scratches his body until it bleeds, leaving wounds and abrasions.
The reasons for this condition are:
- mental and physical stress;
- stress;
- conflict situations;
- brain injuries;
- hormonal disorders;
- infections.
Muscular neurosis . This condition is preceded by physical overexertion, as well as prolonged monotonous activity.
The disease is accompanied by a burning sensation throughout the body or in certain areas against a background of muscle tension and spasms. Another characteristic symptom is pain in the chest, neck and face.
Neurosis of the genital organs . The main manifestations of this syndrome are itching and burning in the genital area, which occur after sexual intercourse, during the menstrual period and for a number of other reasons.
The culprits of the disease are:
- mental infantility;
- chronic fatigue;
- conflicts in the family.
Causes of dry and burning nose
In addition to the symptoms of the disease, dry nasal mucosa develops for a number of external reasons:
- Dry air during the heating season causes dry mucous membranes.
- Allergies to pet hair, house dust, pollen, and chemicals cause itching in the nose, swelling of the mucous membrane, and lacrimation.
- Excessive use of vasoconstrictor medications or folk remedies in the treatment of a runny nose provokes dryness, burning and pain in the nose.
- Polyps inside the nose, deviated nasal septum, herpes, foreign objects inside the nasal passage - all this causes unpleasant sensations without a runny nose and drying out of the mucous membrane.
Other mental and nervous disorders
It is worth noting that these unpleasant sensations in the intimate area also appear with other types of neurosis.
Here is a case described in psychotherapeutic practice. A young woman aged 22 went to a psychiatric hospital. Because of this, their sexual and marital life is destroyed, the couple is on the verge of divorce.
During the survey, it was found that the girl got married at the insistence of relatives at the age of 19. And her husband is 18 years older than her. She developed normally, and at the time of coming to the center she was physically healthy, including gynecologically.
Conclusion: hysterical psychopathy , a symptom of hysterical genitalgia. This symptom developed due to the girl’s negative attitude towards her husband and sex life in general. Pain and burning in the vagina in this case act as an unconscious pathological adaptation mechanism for avoiding sexual intimacy with the husband. The symptom was eliminated with the help of hypnosis, but the dislike of sexual relations remained.
Thus, in this situation, a burning sensation in the intimate area became a manifestation of exclusively mental disorders, despite physical health.
Vegetative-vascular dystonia can also be accompanied by sensations of heat and itching in the body. The reason for this is an imbalance in the functioning of the nervous system. This disorder leads to changes in cardiac activity, which is why the condition is often accompanied by a burning sensation in the chest. It is accompanied by other symptoms such as arrhythmia, shortness of breath, heart pain, pressure surges, dizziness and loss of consciousness.
Treatment
Getting rid of unpleasant sensations in the nose depends on how accurately their cause is determined.
If the cause of the itching is an allergy, then eliminating the source of the reaction will be the first step in treatment. Next, antihistamines are used and a special diet is prescribed. It is useful to rinse your nose with sea salt solutions. Corticosteroids are used in the most extreme cases and only as prescribed by a doctor.
If the cause of mucosal damage is a fungal infection, the otolaryngologist prescribes antifungal nasal and tablet medications.
To treat viral infections, the doctor prescribes local antiviral drugs in complex therapy. Bacterial infections are treated according to a similar principle.
What can itching and feeling of heat in the body lead to?
These symptoms are so uncomfortable that it is simply impossible to ignore them. All attention is concentrated on them, which is why a person becomes inattentive, absent-minded, disruptions appear in his professional activities, and his performance decreases.
Irritability and tension reach a peak state. Depression and nervous breakdowns are possible. Such overexertion leads to mental imbalance. The patient's sleep is disturbed and insomnia develops. As a result, during the day he feels exhausted and sleep-deprived.
Severe itching in the intimate area sometimes leads sufferers to the point that they use various objects that injure the mucous membrane and skin in this area.
Scratches on the skin and mucous membranes can become infected, inflamed and suppurate, spreading the process to larger areas.
What complications can it lead to?
With proper therapy, the condition of dryness and burning of the nasal mucosa can be eliminated within a few days.
It is not recommended to self-medicate without knowing the cause of the ailment. If the burning sensation in the nose is caused by chronic rhinitis, in which the mucous membrane becomes thinner or thicker and an unpleasant odor appears, it is necessary to undergo comprehensive treatment under the supervision of a doctor. Otherwise, the person’s condition will only worsen: fatigue will increase, the quality of sleep will deteriorate, and snoring will appear.
Being the cause of itching in the nose, allergies can lead to damage to the bronchi and, in particular, bronchial asthma.
A constant feeling of tension with difficulty breathing causes nervousness, mental instability, and stress. This, in turn, leads to psychosomatic disorders and hormonal disorders.
Which doctor should I contact if I have a burning sensation in my chest?
Regular repetitions of this symptom are a reason to contact a therapist. He will conduct an examination, collect anamnesis, ask questions that interest him - and either prescribe treatment or refer him to:
- gastroenterologist - if gastrointestinal diseases are suspected;
- orthopedist - if osteochondrosis is suspected;
- neurologist - if osteochondrosis is suspected;
- cardiologist - if you suspect diseases of the cardiovascular system.
They, in turn, will prescribe diagnostic tests to make an accurate diagnosis.