Arm itching can be caused by environmental factors or an underlying health-related condition. According to The Mayo Clinic, one cause of arm itching is contact dermatitis. Other possible causes of arm itching include psoriasis and keratosis pilaris. If arm itching becomes painful or begins to look infected, contact a health care provider.
Contact Dermatitis
According to the Mayo Clinic, contact dermatitis is a skin condition that is typically caused by contact with an allergen. Allergens are substances that cause your body's immune system to overreact upon contact. Poison ivy, laundry detergent, certain chemicals and metals can all be allergens that cause contact dermatitis. The result of this contact can cause itchy, red and inflamed skin. If your arm or any other part of your body comes into contact with an allergen, you may develop a temporary case of contact dermatitis. This condition is not life threatening, but can be extremely uncomfortable. Avoiding the irritant is often the best prevention for contact dermatitis. If contact dermatitis develops, medication in the form of oral corticosteroids or topical creams can help relieve symptoms.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a skin condition caused by rapid cell turnover under the skin. Normally, skin cells are produced deep under the skin and rise to the surface around once a month. In people who suffer from psoriasis, this growth process happens faster than normal leaving a buildup of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Psoriasis can affect any part of the body, including the arms, scalp, legs and back. Symptoms of psoriasis include skin that itches or becomes inflamed. Other signs include patches of dry, scaly-looking skin; dry cracked skin that can bleed and thick or pitted nails. Some people may experience swollen or stiff joints. Treatment for psoriasis includes light therapy, oral medication and topical ointments.
Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition. According to the Mayo Clinic, keratosis pilaris is caused by a buildup of keratin. Keratin is a hard protein that guards the skin from damaging substances and infection. When this buildup of keratin occurs the skin begins to develop rough patches or groups of small acne-like bumps. This can give the affected area a sandpaper-like texture. Although keratosis pilaris can make the skin feel and look rough, the condition is not serious. Aside from tiny acne-like bumps, other symptoms of keratosis pilaris include itching, dry patches of skin and bumps that may become inflamed. According to the Mayo Clinic, keratosis pilaris typically affects the upper arm, legs and buttocks. It can also appear on the face and be mistaken for acne. Keratosis pilaris is more common in children, but people of any age can be affected. Keratosis pilaris can gradually disappear on its own but medication is available to temporarily lessen or clear up symptoms. If you stop the medication, the condition will return.
