How to Handle Itching When You Have a Cast On

The goal of a cast is to immobilize an injured arm or leg, reduce swelling and help the fractured bone to heal. Proper cast care is necessary for a cast to be an effective means of treatment. Prior to leaving the hospital or your doctor's office, you will be given a set of instructions for how to care for your cast. Failure to comply can result in break down of the cast, which can cause cuts and infections. Your doctor will give you information on how to reduce the itching that is likely to occur as the result of wearing a cast.

Things You'll Need

• Wooden spoon
• Hair dryer
• Anti-histamine

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Instructions

• 1

  Keep your cast cool and dry. Perspiration and water will cause the skin underneath your cast to become itchy. Avoid bathing, swimming and rain while wearing a cast. Avoid strenuous physical activity as well.

• 2

  Take an anti-histamine. Talk to your doctor about taking an allergy medication. Allergy medications may help reduce some of the itching caused by casts.

• 3

  Use a hair dryer. Set your hair dryer on a cold air setting and blow air into the top of your cast to relieve itching.

• 4

  Tap on your cast using a wooden spoon or your hand. The vibrations caused by tapping can help to ease itching.

• 5

  Elevate the affected body part. Reducing swelling can help prevent your cast from rubbing against your skin.