Itching all over causes serious discomfort that can significantly disrupt sleep and affect quality of life. Itching is a common symptom of skin diseases and is one of the most common reasons for consulting a dermatologist. Itching can also be a sign of a potentially serious disease in another part of the body, according to American Family Physician.
Skin Allergies
The most common skin conditions caused by allergies are eczema, allergic contact dermatitis, hives and angioedema, according to the American Academy of Allergy and Immunology. Signs of a skin allergy can include itching, an unusual rash, dry and flaking skin, inflamed skin, blisters and swelling of the deeper layers of skin on the eyelids, mouth or genitals. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Serious allergic reaction that causes difficulty breathing require immediate medical attention.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C causes itching in 20 percent of patients, explains the Hepatitis C Support Project. It is more common when the disorder has caused advanced liver disease and cirrhosis. Itching may be the only sign of chronic hepatitis C, and may be caused by a buildup of toxins not filtered by a damaged liver. It can also be a side effect of interferon/ribavirin treatment. Treatment includes medications that reduce the itch and remove bile salts from the blood, stopping the use of tobacco, filtering the plasma and UV light treatments. In advanced liver disease, the only way to stop itching is with a liver transplant.
Cholestasis of Pregnancy
Cholestasis, a common liver disease that only happens during pregnancy, can cause severe itching late in pregnancy, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Pregnancy hormones slow or stop the normal flow of bile from the gallbladder, resulting in a buildup of bile acids in the liver and the bloodstream. Itching may be the only symptom, although dark urine, yellowing of the skin and eyes, light-colored stools, tiredness and loss of appetite can also result.
Polycythemia Vera
Polycythemia vera is a disorder of the bone marrow that causes too many red blood cells to be produced, explains MayoClinic.com. The extra red blood cells thicken the blood and can cause life-threatening complications without proper medical care. Itchiness, especially after a warm bath or shower, is a possible symptom of polycythemia vera. Other symptoms include shortness of breath, dizziness, headache, fullness in the upper left abdomen caused by an enlarged spleen, skin redness, chest pain and tiredness. According to MayoClinic.com, complications include gout, kidney stones, leukemia and blood clots that can lead to a stroke or heart attack.
