Itching skin and skin irritation may begin as a tingling or slight discomfort that causes the urge to scratch, MedlinePlus says. There are several causes of this condition that are generally mild in nature and often require little more than a cold compress or lotion.
However, a severe eruption can be indicative of a more pressing issue that often requires medical attention should the itching and irritation become troublesome or appear in conjunction with other symptoms. Individuals experiencing heightened sensitivity or irritation should contact a health care provider for treatment and evaluation.
Allergies
Allergies is the immune system's response to an external factor that can cause severe itching and skin irritation, according to MedlinePlus. The appearance of rashes, swelling and itching may be due to pollen, mold spores, medicines or dust mites. Atopic dermatitis is an allergic skin reaction also known as eczema. Extreme itchiness, red skin, flaking or peeling can occur causing the sufferer extreme discomfort, according to MayoClinic.com. Drug, food and insect allergies can all cause itchy skin, hives or excessive swelling and often require immediate medical attention as symptoms may not be confined to the skin.
Poisonous Plants
Poisonous plants contain oily sap, which is in the root, stems, leaves and fruit, according to MedlinePlus. Poison ivy, oak and sumac are common plants that cause severe itching and skin irritation upon exposure. It generally causes a blistering skin rash when sap makes direct contact with the skin or indirectly from clothing, pet fur, gardening tools or sport equipment, the American Academy of Dermatology says. Identifying factors of ivy and oak are leaflets of three where sumac exhibits a row of paired leaflets that contain an additional leaflet at the end. Usual treatment for mild cases includes over-the-counter anti-itch products. However, severe cases require prescription medication and the evaluation by a physician.
Fungus
Fungal infections often appear on the skin as a rash accompanied by sensitivity and extreme itching, according to MedlinePlus. Ringworm, for example, appears as a red, ring-formation rash that causes itching, burning and cracking of the skin. It can appear anywhere on the body but usually occurs in the groin, scalp and toes. Yeast infections of the skin, known as cutaneous candidiasis, causes intense skin itching and pimple-like skin lesions. Diagnosis for both fungal infections require little more than visual assessment by a physician. Severe instances require prescription antifungal medications that are either topical or oral depending on the progression and intensity.
