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Persistently itchy skin seems like a small irritation but it could hint at a more severe medical issue.
What causes itchy skin?
Itchy skin – the medical term is pruritus – can vary enormously in intensity, frequency and duration and it can affect a tiny little spot or your entire body. Some of the possible causes include the following:
- A skin condition like eczema, psoriasis, dandruff, or prurigo.
- An allergic reaction to certain fabrics, cosmetics, dyes, metals, food or medications.
- Insect bites.
- A fungal infection like thrush (yes, men can get it, too), ringworm or athlete’s foot.
- Some chronic long-term conditions like liver disease, thyroid problems and certain cancers;
- Parasites like lice or scabies (a contagious skin condition where tiny mites burrow into the skin).
- The common cold.
- Dry skin (xerosis).
- Hormonal changes or disorders.
- Contact with irritants like chemicals, detergents, poison ivy or stinging nettles.
- Sunburn.
- Conditions affecting the nervous system such as multiple sclerosis, shingles, pinched nerves or diabetes.
- Excessive sweating.
- Psychological causes like anxiety or stress.
- Nutritional deficiencies including iron and Vitamin A deficiencies.
7 quick fixes
Once the cause has been identified treat your itch using tested methods that will help to calm and soothe your skin. These include:
1. Applying a good quality moisturising lotion.
2. Wet compresses (damp, cool cloth).
3. A cool shower or bath (adding some baking soda or uncooked oatmeal to the bath helps).
4. Mild soaps without perfumes or dyes.
5. Smooth-textured, loose-fitting cotton clothing.
6. Mild, unscented washing powder to wash bedding, towels and clothes.
7. Ice packs.
Time for the doctor?
It might not be easy to identify the true cause of your itch and you should consult a doctor or skin specialist (dermatologist) if the condition lasts more than two weeks and doesn’t respond to any self-care measure. You should also see a doctor if the itch affects your entire body, is so severe that it prevents you from functioning effectively, or if other symptoms include weight loss, fever or extreme tiredness.
If the itching is accompanied by a difficulty in breathing and a swelling of the tongue and face, it may be due to a severe allergic reaction and anaphylaxis – a life threatening emergency that needs medical assistance immediately.
Medication
Depending on the diagnosis, your doctor may prescribe one of the following types of medication:
- Antihistamines like Benadryl (generic: diphenhydramine), Atarax (hydroxyzine) or Claritine (loratidine) in the case of allergies.
- Corticosteroid creams to soothe the itching.
- Topical local anaesthetics like Lidocaine or Benzocain or ointments containing menthol, camphor or calamine for short-term relief.
- Light therapy, involving the exposure of the affected areas of skin to certain wavelengths of ultraviolet light for several sessions.
- Medication to treat an underlying disease such as kidney or thyroid problems.
Avoid!
Steer clear of heat, humidity and itchy fabrics (including polyester and wool) and whatever you do, do not scratch!
