Itching is an uncomfortable and often irritating sensation. The Mayo Clinic indicates there are several possible causes for excessive itching, including internal diseases such as kidney failure. It is important to seek medical treatment if excessive itching persists. Excessive itching can lead to bacterial infections or worse skin conditions when left untreated.
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is also referred to as eczema and is a chronic skin disorder. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, eczema is similar to an allergy of the skin. It leads to long-standing inflammation. Blisters that ooze and crust on the skin in addition to inflammation provokes the itching sensation. This condition becomes worse when scratched, causing rawness and thickened areas of the skin. Using a cold compress and over-the-counter antihistamines offer temporary relief from excessive itching. Consultation with your physician may also offer solutions for long-term care.
Allergic Reactions
An allergic reaction to chemical irritants such as soap or food causes itching. The National Library of Medicine explains that hives are often a result of the irritant. Hives are visible as red raised welts on the skin. The allergic reaction to the irritant forces the body to release histamine into the bloodstream, which is the culprit that causes the itch. Swelling underneath the skin and around the eyes and lips are possible symptoms in the case of a severe allergic reaction. Severe allergic reactions require medical intervention, especially if swelling of the throat occurs. However, mild cases with excessive itching are treatable with antihistamines.
Internal Diseases
The Mayo Clinic indicates that generalized itching is often a result of an internal disease such as kidney failure. When the kidneys fail, they fail to remove waste products from the body, causing an excess of waste to build up in the blood. This becomes toxic to the body and a variety of symptoms ensue. Excessive itching is one symptom common for people with kidney failure. The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse explains that itching becomes worse when the toxin buildup is not removed from the body. Additionally, increased levels of parathyroid hormone cause itching in people with kidney failure. In the case of kidney failure, medical intervention is necessary to manage the underlying disease as well as to offer relief for excessive itching.
