Itching

About Itching

Itch is an irritation in the skin that elicits an urge to scratch. It is a common problem and can be localized (limited to one area of the body) or generalized (occurring all over the body or in several different areas).

Causes

• Dry skin (Xerosis)
• Sun exposure
• Endocrine disorders – Hyperthyroidism, Hypothyroidism or Diabetes
• Skin conditions like –

  Allergic reactions like Urticaria, Angioedema

  Drug reactions

  Stings and insect bites or Prurigo mitis

  Fungal infections or Tinea infections.

  Viral infections like Chickenpox, measles or Herpes Zoster

  Parasitic infections like pediculosis or scabies

  Eczemas and Dermatitis

  Other causes like Iron-deficiency anaemia and during pregnancy.

• Metabolic disorders – Liver diseases like cholestasis and kidney diseases
• Cancers

Potential Complications

Complications of itching skin depend on the underlying disease, disorder and condition. Identifying and treating the underlying cause of itching skin is important to minimize any potential complications. In some cases, itching skin itself can lead to complications, especially if the itch-scratch cycle is severe and leads to a breakdown of the skin.

Over time, itching skin can lead to various complications

• Bacterial or fungal infection of the skin and surrounding tissues
• Permanent change in skin texture (neurodermatitis)
• Permanent skin discoloration
• Scarring

Treatments

• Identify the cause of the condition and cure it, thus causing symptoms of itching to settle down.
• Use of sunscreens regularly to prevent sunburns and skin damage.
• Use skin creams and lotions that moisturize your skin and prevent dryness.
• Use a mild bath soap and laundry detergent that won't irritate your skin.
• Take a bath in warm –  not hot/very cold – water.
• Avoid certain fabrics, such as wool and synthetics that can make your skin itch. Switch to cotton clothing instead.
• Use cold applications as cold and itch travel along the same nerve fibres and thus, the use of cold applications can "jam the circuits" and reduce itching. Cool water/cool showers by running tap water over the affected area or placing a cool clean washcloth on the skin can help.
• Anti-itch creams and lotions – Look for over-the-counter (OTC) remedies with these ingredients – Camphor, Menthol, Pramoxene – caladryl lotion, Diphenhydramine, Benzocaine (or one of the other "caine" anaesthetics). You can apply these products as needed. They help numb the nerve endings and stop you from a scratching frenzy, which leaves the skin raw, sore, and even itchier.
• Oral medications with h1 and h2 antihistamines can be prescribed. These should be consumed under medical supervision and guidance due to associated side effects.