The medical term for itching is pruritus. Most people have felt its effects. Itching may cause tingling or irritations that demand scratching and appear anywhere on the skin. Irritants, skin disorders, medication, certain diseases and various other factors can cause the condition. Types of itching usually relate to cause and where itching is present, because the skin constantly exposes to irritations. A health care professional can assist in treating itching and diagnosing cause.
Jock Itch
Jock itch occurs from fungal infections called dermatophytes. These fungi live on dead tissues on the skin and thrive in warm, most areas where infections can grow. Jock itch appears most often at the inner thighs, genitals and anal area. It can spread from person to person by direct contact or through sharing clothing. Symptoms of jock itch include itching, cracked skin, peeling, redness and burning sensations. It's a very common fungal infection that often affects those who sweat easily, explains kidshealth.org. Jock itch closely relates to other types of itching and fungal infections, such as athlete's foot and ringworm.
Swimmer's Itch
Swimmer's itch, also called cercarial dermatitis, refers to skin rashes caused by shistosome parasites. These parasites release from infected snails and into water, where they are capable of penetrating a person's skin. The rash usually appears as patchy red pinpoints on parts of the body exposed to infected water. Itching usually occurs within 48 hours, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Those who swim in freshwater and coastal environments may experience this type of itching. The reaction can last for up to seven days and all age groups are susceptible, the AOCD says.
Hives
Hives are allergic reactions that cause areas of itchy, swollen red skin. They occur when the immune system has an abnormal reaction to a substance that it finds harmful. Reactions to these substances release histamines in the body that produce hives. Certain foods, medications, stress, contact with animals and plants, heat and infections can cause hives. An estimated 10 percent to 20 percent of the population gets hives at some point, and most episodes disappear within days or weeks, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Hives usually only cause mild skin reactions, but some people may experience outbreaks that cause difficulties in swallowing and breathing.
