Medline Plus defines itching as a tingling sensation on the skin that makes you want to scratch. According to the National Institutes of Health informational resource, itching all over the body is referred to as generalized itching, while itching in spots is called localized itching. There are a number of causes of the condition, and each is treated according to the diagnosis.
Causes
Generalized itching can occur from an underlying medical condition or a skin disease. According to Medline Plus, common causes of the irritating skin condition include allergies, liver disease that produces jaundice, iron deficiency anemia and hepatitis. Childhood diseases such as chicken pox and measles can cause generalized itching, as can reactions to certain medications such as vitamin A supplements or antibiotics.
Identification
Looking for an obvious irritant or illness can solve most itching problems. Once the culprit has been identified, such as poison ivy or chicken pox, you can apply home remedies and wait for the irritations to pass. If common home remedies and over-the-counter anti-itching treatments don't alleviate the problem, it may be due to an underlying medical condition. When other symptoms are present, you should seek medical advice. If the itching does not go away, becomes severe or cannot be explained, see a doctor for a diagnosis.
Features
Viral or fungal infections can cause skin irritations that become generalized when you have a compromised immune system. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, people with acquired immune deficiency syndrome, or AIDS, often develop generalized skin irritations that cause itching. The symptoms lead to an early diagnosis of the disease, which then can be treated accordingly. Scabies is another skin condition that can cause severe itching. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a mite that gets under the skin and leads to a pimply rash and intense itching causes scabies.
Considerations
Dry, flaky skin is a common occurrence that happens with age. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, dry skin can cause severe itching, especially for people who live in cold, dry climates. While the natural oils in the skin that lubricate and keep skin moist cannot be replaced, moisturizing on a regular basis can help relieve the itching. Look for lotions that contain petrolatum. Bathing less frequently and using mild soaps also can lessen the itching that occurs all over the body.
Consequences
While waiting for a condition to pass or to find out what is causing the itching, there are precautions you should take to prevent scarring and infections from scratching. According to Medline Plus, wearing lightweight clothing that doesn't irritate the skin can help reduce itching. Cutting your fingernails can help prevent scratching open the skin. Lukewarm baths in oatmeal or cornstarch, cold compresses and soothing lotions can reduce the need to scratch.
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