Pruritus Treatment

AUTHOR: Jeffrey Hunek M.D. | FOUNDER OF VENICE AVENUE DERMATOLOGY • EXPERT SKINCARE SPECIALISTS

Pruritus refers to the sensation of itching on the skin. It can be caused by a wide range of skin conditions, including dry skin, infection, fungus, other skin diseases and, rarely, cancer. While anyone can experience pruritus, it is more commonly seen among the elderly, diabetics, people with suppressed immune systems and those with seasonal allergies, like hay fever or eczema. Additionally, there is a type of pruritus, called PUPPP (Pruritic Uticarial Papules & Plaques of Pregnancy) that affects pregnant women.

Treatment for pruritus depends on identifying the underlying cause. Your dermatologist will examine the itchy area and may make a small scrape on any rash to collect tissue for diagnostic testing. Typical treatment involves topical and/or oral steroids and antihistamines to help relieve the itch. To avoid pruritus, make sure to follow healthy skin care procedures.

Dr. Jeffrey R. Hunek M.D.

About the author:

FOUNDER OF VENICE AVENUE DERMATOLOGY • EXPERT SKINCARE SPECIALISTS

Dr. Jeffrey R. Hunek is a northeast Ohio native. He attended John Carroll University, where he graduated early and with honors, earning a bachelors degree in biology. He went on to receive his medical degree from The Medical College of Ohio at Toledo, where he earned multiple awards for his academic achievements, graduating near the top of his class. There, he was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society in his junior year.

Dr. Hunek completed his internship in internal medicine at MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio, and his residency training at the renowned Henry Ford Health System Department of Dermatology in Detroit, Michigan, also serving as chief resident. Upon completion of residency training, Dr. Hunek relocated with his wife and family to Florida’s west coast where he practiced dermatology in Charlotte County for ten years. He has practiced medical and surgical dermatology in Venice since 2015. Dr. Hunek has been recognized multiple times as the “best of” Venice.

In his spare time, Dr. Hunek enjoys the outdoors, guitar, live music, sports, and spending time with his wife and four children.

Dr. Hunek provides comprehensive dermatology care for adolescents and adults. While specializing in skin cancer detection and treatment, Dr. Hunek also has an interest in medical dermatology, including psoriasis, eczema, acne, rosacea, skin infections, and autoimmune diseases. He utilizes dermoscopy when evaluating all patients to provide the most thorough evaluation.

Dr. Hunek is board certified by the American Board of Dermatology, and is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. He is also a member of the Florida Society of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery and the National Psoriasis Foundation.

Follow the expert:

Our Info

Contact