Itching over the whole body may occur because of an immune reaction, a benign condition related to the environment, or a more serious condition. When itching lasts more than a week, and becomes severe enough to interfere with sleep or daily activities, or is accompanied by fever, fatigue, weight loss or changes in elimination, then people should seek treatment from a physician.
Allergy
Itching that is accompanied by welts or hives most likely occurs because of an allergic reaction. Difficulty breathing indicates a need for emergency medical care. Common food allergies now noted on grocery labels include milk, wheat, fish, shellfish, peanuts, corn, soy or tree nuts, says MayoClinic.com. The list of possible allergens is longer, however, and could include citrus, strawberries, or other items. Exposure to soaps, lotions and fragrances may also cause itching in sensitive individuals. It may take some investigation to determine what new product was used prior to the appearance of an itchy rash. Treatment centers on the elimination of the offending substances. Antihistamine medications may provide temporary relief from allergic reactions.
Dry Skin
Dry skin, or xerosis, commonly occurs in cold climates where heated indoor air is very dry. The air pulls water from the skin, leaving it scaly, red, and rough to the touch, reports American Family Physician. Dry skin may also result from excessive bathing and the use of drying soaps. The use of humidifiers and moisturizing lotions help to remedy the problem. Corticosteroid creams may be recommended to reduce inflammation.
Narcotics
Pain relievers and opiate medications such as morphine have effects on the nervous system, releasing histamine and dilating blood vessels in the skin, notes the DrugText website. These actions lead to a flushed appearance, perspiration and severe itching. Other common reactions to drugs in this class include nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Higher doses will likely cause side effects. Except for constipation, they tend to fade with continued use.
Liver Disease
Cirrhosis, or scar tissue in the liver, usually occurs as the result of damage caused by chronic alcohol abuse or hepatitis C infection, says the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Cirrhosis slowly impairs the ability of the liver to aid digestion and cleanse the blood of toxins. A poorly functioning liver affects all areas of the body. The buildup of bile products in the skin results in intense itching. Jaundice, or yellowing of the complexion occurs because the liver cannot recycle red blood cells effectively, and spider veins are the result of the liver's inability to regulate hormone production.
Hodgkin's Disease
A type of lymphoma, or cancer of the lymph system, Hodgkin's disease affects three out of every 100,000 Americans, according to the Nemours Foundation website KidsHealth. Lymphomas affect teens and young adults as well as persons over age 55. The most common sign of Hodgkin's disease is painless swelling of lymph nodes in the neck or groin area. Other symptoms may include itching, hives, poor appetite and night sweats.
