Itching can be caused by insects, parasites or the presence of a health-related illness. According to Mayoclinic.com, everything from bug bite to skin conditions can cause mild to severe itching. If body itching becomes increasingly painful or starts to look infected, contact a health-care provider immediately.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a condition that occurs when there is an uncontrolled production of skins cells. These skin cells build up in the outermost layer of the skin, causing the surface of the skin to itch, according to Mayoclinic.com. Other symptoms of psoriasis include patches of skin that are red and scaly, with a characteristically silver sheen. Joints may become stiff or swollen. Treatment of psoriasis is geared toward lessening the severity of symptoms and disrupting the cycle that causes skin cells to buildup in the skin. Topical and oral medication are common forms of treatment as well as light therapy.
Contact Dermatitis
There are several forms of dermatitis, all of which can cause itching on the body. Contact dermatitis is a condition in which external irritants cause an allergic reaction. When these irritants come into contact with the skin, they can cause redness and itching. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, common irritants that can cause contact dermatitis are laundry detergent, soap and poison ivy. Jewelry and fabric can also cause an allergic reaction on the skin. Other symptoms can include swelling and skin lesions. Treatment for contact dermatitis related itching includes the application of topical creams containing hydrocortisone and other stronger steroidal creams.
Insects and Parasites
An insect bite or parasite infection can cause itching on any part of the body that has been infected. Common insect bites that cause itching can come from mosquitoes, bed bugs, fleas and scabies. Mosquitoes are usually found near places where there is stagnate water present. Pools, ponds, or puddles are all havens that mosquitoes use to proliferate. Fleas are often ushered into the home through pets--often dogs and cats. Bed bugs are typically found in places where there is a high turnover of night-time occupants such as hotels or hospitals. Swimmers itch is caused by specific parasites that typically live on waterfowl and freshwater snails, according to Mayoclinic.com. These parasites are released into the water during hot, sunny weather and can burrow into a persons skin during a swim in an infested area. Fortunately these parasites cannot survive very long in humans and they die out within a few days. Typical treatment for itching caused by insect bites and parasite infections include applying topical antihistamine--to control itching--and hydrocortisone.
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