About this topic
Itch is also known as pruritus. It is an unpleasant feeling. You may want to scratch the skin to get relief. Itchy skin is annoying and may cause distress. You may have anxiety and low mood if your activities are bothered by itching. Scratching all the time can harm the skin. You may have just one area that feels itchy or it may be over your whole body. ‚
Most often your skin feels itchy because it is dry. It may also be caused by a much more serious health problem. ‚
What are the causes?
Many things can case your skin to itch. You may have: ‚
- Dry skin
- Allergy to metal or something your skin is touching
- Problem with your skin like hives, psoriasis, or eczema
- Infection like thrush or scabies
- Health problem like diabetes, change in hormones, or kidney problem
What are the main signs?
You may not see any changes on the skin. Sometimes, your skin is dry and red. You may or may not have a rash. ‚
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. The doctor will look at your skin with care. You may need tests to see if there is a problem causing your skin to itch. The doctor may order tests like: ‚
- Blood tests
- Skin biopsy
- Chest x-ray
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your care will be based on what is causing the itching. Your doctor may order drugs or wet dressings. In some cases, the doctor may order a procedure like light therapy. Your skin is exposed to a set amount of a special kind of light. This may help ease some of the itchiness. You may need to have ongoing treatment to keep the itching under control. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- Avoid foods that may make your skin itch.
- Take extra care when taking a bath or shower.
- Use lukewarm water and limit bath or shower time to 5 to 10 minutes.
- Use only mild and unscented soaps and bath products.
- Apply moisturizing products to keep your skin moist. Use water-based moisturizers only.
- Stay away from things that bother your skin. These may include household cleaners, detergents, aftershave lotions, gasoline, and other liquids.
- Do not wear tight-fitting clothes. Avoid clothes made of wool or synthetic fabrics.
- Do not scratch or rub the skin, if possible. Try gently patting or tapping instead.
- Keep your fingernails trimmed and short to avoid damage to the skin.
- Use a cool compress on the skin. Dip a cloth in cold water and apply it directly to your itchy skin. This may help with swelling and itching.
- Avoid too much exposure to heat and humidity.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Control and ease itching
- Help with swelling and redness of the skin
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
Learn how to handle stress. Changing your activities may help lower stress. Your doctor can help you learn how to cope with stress. ‚
Where can I learn more?
FamilyDoctor.org ‚
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/pruritis.printerview.all.html ‚
NHS Choices ‚
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Itching/Pages/Introduction.aspx ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚