Itching, or pruritus, is the skin's response to some type of internal or external irritant. The skin sends signals to the brain that alert the body's senses to the need to scratch. Skin scraping or a biopsy may be needed to determine the cause of itching, especially for cases in which the skin becomes irritated, inflamed or infected.
Dry Skin
Itching, scaling and cracks in the skin are the most common symptoms of dry skin, according to MedlinePlus.com. Itchy skin is most likely to appear on the arms, thighs and lower legs. Causes of dry skin include changes in the air to a low humidity level, such as cold outside air and heated inside air during the winter months.
As the skin loses moisture, it can crack and become inflamed or infected. Treatment suggestions include warm water for bathing, mild soap or cleansers, quick baths or showers and gently pat skin dry. The daily use of moisturizers, drinking plenty of water and the use of a humidifier in dry conditions may reduce the amount or severity of dry skin and itching.
Spider Bites
The two most common spiders noted for serious spider bites are the brown recluse and the black widow; however, according to Merck, almost all spiders are poisonous. Since the fangs of most are unable to penetrate human skin, about 60 species in the United States are noted for biting people.
Symptoms of a black widow spider bite include itching and pain at the site, muscle pain and stiffness, nausea, headache, rash, severe breathing problems and weakness. The area around a brown recluse bite may itch and become red and bruised. The itching may spread to the entire body and a blister may form, rupture and cause an open sore at the bite site.
Treatment includes cleaning the site and using ice to reduce the pain and swelling. Muscle relaxants and analgesics may be necessary during the course of healing. Severe symptoms or people with pre-existing medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart disease, indicate treatment by a physician may be required.
Mosquito Bites
Mosquito bites are not just an irritating source of itching, redness and swelling, but can be a source of serious diseases, such as malaria, dengue fever and West Nile virus, reports OhioHealth online. Oral antihistamines and topical lotions are options to relieve the itching.
Symptoms that can indicate the presence of a serious illness related to mosquito bites include fever, vomiting, confusion, body aches and severe headache. For mosquito bites that become infected, or if symptoms of a more serious condition arise, it is important to consult a physician.
