It's hard to keep your hands away from an itchy patch of skin, no matter how hard you try. The itching-scratching cycle may seem as if it will never end, particularly if you aren't sure what is causing your problem. Narrowing down the cause of your itch will help you and your doctor find an appropriate treatment for your symptoms.
Identification
Itchy skin, also called pruritis, can occur alone or may be accompanied by other symptoms, including a rash, blisters, bumps or dry skin. Itching can be so intense that you find it hard to sleep and may feel anxious or depressed due to your condition. Although the exact cause of itching is unknown, the American Academy of Dermatology reports that itching is a complex process that involves nerves that respond to certain chemicals released in the skin and nerve signal processing in the brain.
The Role of Skin Conditions and Diseases
If you have a skin condition, such as a fungal infection, psoriasis, scabies, lice, dermatitis, hives or chicken pox, you probably aren't surprised that in addition to red bumps or blisters, you also have an irritating itch. Less obvious as a cause of itching are internal diseases, such as anemia, celiac disease, cancers, thyroid problems, kidney failure or liver disease. If itching is caused by an underlying disease, the itching usually affects the whole body, rather than one specific area, according to MayoClinic.com. Itching can also occur as side effect of medication used to control diseases, including narcotic painkillers, antibiotics and antifungal medication.
Identifying Allergies
When itching skin is a recent occurrence, food or other types of allergies may be to blame in some cases. An allergic reaction to chemicals or other ingredients may be the cause of your problem if the itching started after you changed your usual brand of laundry detergent, lotion, makeup or soap. Some types of fabrics, such as wool, may also cause an allergic reaction in some people. If the itching started after a walk in the woods and is accompanied by a red rash, poison ivy may be the culprit.
Ruling Out Dry Skin
While dry skin may seem like a minor problem, a lack of moisture in your skin can lead to itching, particularly if there is no rash. Dry skin often gets worse in the winter, when there is less humidity in the air. Both central air-conditioning and heating systems can contribute to dry skin. Sun exposure, too frequent bathing, smoking and using harsh soaps, antiperspirants or perfumes can also cause dry skin. Cleveland Clinic reports that the loss of sweat and oil glands as you age may worsen dry skin.
Treatment
Treating an underlying condition or disease will help resolve itching. Over-the-counter ointments and creams that contain topical numbing agents can help treat itching, whether it is caused by poison ivy or hives. If itching is annoying, your doctor may also recommend that you take an oral antihistamine or use a topical medication that includes a corticosteroid. Soaking in an oatmeal bath or applying cool compresses to itchy areas can temporarily provide relief of itching. Using moisturizers and a humidifier can help relieve dry skin and reduce itching. Doctors recommend phototherapy for people who have severe itching. During phototherapy, ultraviolet light rays are aimed at your skin to slow skin cell growth.
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