Itching of the skin often begins as a tingling or irritation, according to MedlinePlus. The majority of the time, itching is not serious, even in the presence of small bumps. Instead, it can indicate an external reaction to a variety of things. Using over-the-counter anti-itch creams, antihistamines and lotions can effectively quell the itch. Nonetheless, if itching and skin bumps persist or become exceedingly bothersome, contact a medical professional.
Allergies
Allergies to items such as wool, chemicals, soaps or other items can irritate the skin and cause itching, according to MayoClinic.com. It is common to have small red bumps appear accompanied by itching. In some instances, hives can appear, which are red, itchy, raised areas on the skin that can appear anywhere an allergen comes in contact with, reports the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology. External contact doesn't have to occur for allergic reactions to take place. Food and drug reactions are also responsible for the presence of itchy skin bumps such as hives. Generally, the itching and bumps will disappear on their own or with the help of over-the-counter products. However, should they persist, contact an allergy specialist for testing.
Insect Bites and Stings
In most cases, insect bites from mosquitoes, fleas or mites generally go undetected until red, itchy bumps appear. The bites from these minuscule organisms usually cause minor swelling, redness and itching that can be more annoying than painful. These common insects can attack more than once, leaving many red itchy bumps over several regions of the body. Applying hydrocortisone cream can help reduce itching and redness.
Alternately, insect stings are a little more serious, in that allergies to the venom of hornets and bees, for example, can quickly prove problematic. Fortunately, many insect stings require nothing more than in-home treatments, and itchiness appears as stings begin to heal, according to MedlinePlus. However, those exhibiting allergies require immediate medical attention, as symptoms can quickly progress, causing anaphylaxis, or the systematic inflammation of the body's tissues, including the airways, warns MedlinePlus.
Dry Skin
The most common cause of itching and bumps is dry skin, according to MayoClinic.com. This condition usually results from external factors that a person may or may not be able to control. Extreme weather conditions such as hot and cold with low humidity levels can cause the skin to dry out due to the lack of moisture in the air. Additionally, long-term use of central heat and air conditioning can also deplete the moisture in the skin, as can overwashing or -bathing, MayoClinic.com says. Drinking adequate amounts of water and applying lotions or creams to dry areas can help eliminate itching and bumps on the skin.
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