Strange symptom

Catherine.

Registered User
Mar 26, 2015
32
0
My 86 year old dad is newly diagnosed with mixed dementia: Alzheimer's and vascular. For about 2 years prior to diagnosis he complained of (amoungst other things!) a feeling of sweating especially in his lower legs, although no sweat being produced. To help with this he vigorously rubs his legs on a regular basis. It is distressing for him. He has had every blood test going and seen several different specialists who have drawn a blank. We have come to the conclusion it must be due to the changes in the brain, but are wondering if anyone else has suffered with this symptom?
 

Kevinl

Registered User
Aug 24, 2013
6,050
0
Salford
Hi Catherine
I think there is a lot of psychosomatic illnesses around and it's hard to know what to take seriously. Sweaty lower legs is a new one on me although to be fair I rub my lower legs too, I think it's a combination of cheap nylon socks and hairy legs in my case.
I'd try a different type of sock material, cotton is best (I think) mixed with nylon or wool and if he's of a larger built get the correct size so they're not too tight.
If all that fails wax his legs :D
K
 

Catherine.

Registered User
Mar 26, 2015
32
0
Hi Catherine
I think there is a lot of psychosomatic illnesses around and it's hard to know what to take seriously. Sweaty lower legs is a new one on me although to be fair I rub my lower legs too, I think it's a combination of cheap nylon socks and hairy legs in my case.
I'd try a different type of sock material, cotton is best (I think) mixed with nylon or wool and if he's of a larger built get the correct size so they're not too tight.
If all that fails wax his legs :D
K

Believe me, we have tried every sock going ;)
But I will make sure they are 100% cotton. Thanks for the reply
 

Catherine.

Registered User
Mar 26, 2015
32
0
Have you tried bamboo socks they are very thin, cool and


I wonder if it could be bad circulation causing the feeling as that could cause the itchiness as well,

I had a look at these and he likes longer socks I'm afraid, but thanks for the suggestion.
He generally wears long johns under his trousers but is constantly aware of this strange feeling in his legs...it is hard to describe...sweating but not !?:confused:
 

marionq

Registered User
Apr 24, 2013
6,449
0
Scotland
My husband has a lot of trouble with itching skin though no real reason for it that we can see. He takes an antihistamine every day but this is not enough. I buy Skin so Soft moisturising oil and a big pump action anti itch E45. Slathered on at night helps him sleep.

It may be that your Dad feels his skin uncomfortable but can't explain exactly what he is feeling.
 

Catherine.

Registered User
Mar 26, 2015
32
0
Although your Dad complains of sweating I wonder if he is experiencing pins and needles or numbness?
Does he appear wobbly on his feet or have to sit or lie down immediately?

He doesn't have to sit or lie down immediately. He says it is a sweaty feeling but there is not sweat.
 

Catherine.

Registered User
Mar 26, 2015
32
0
My husband has a lot of trouble with itching skin though no real reason for it that we can see. He takes an antihistamine every day but this is not enough. I buy Skin so Soft moisturising oil and a big pump action anti itch E45. Slathered on at night helps him sleep.

It may be that your Dad feels his skin uncomfortable but can't explain exactly what he is feeling.

I don't think its itching. I wonder if the part of the brain that controls temperature has been affected , either that or anxieties cause this odd feeling. :(
 

Sue J

Registered User
Dec 9, 2009
8,032
0
Hi Catherine, I get very hot and feel sweaty but don't sweat and I believe my temp control has gone but is sometimes worse than others but distressing when it happens.

Gentle leg massage would help the circulation and may alter/change the sensation for him. Anything is worth a try.
Best wishes
Sue
 

Catherine.

Registered User
Mar 26, 2015
32
0
Hi Catherine, I get very hot and feel sweaty but don't sweat and I believe my temp control has gone but is sometimes worse than others but distressing when it happens.

Gentle leg massage would help the circulation and may alter/change the sensation for him. Anything is worth a try.
Best wishes
Sue

Thanks Sue
Sorry to hear you too are suffering like my dad is. It is very distressing for him too. I think him rubbing his legs is his version of a massage. Take care x