Itching
Introduction
Source: NHS
In this topic (3)
Itchy skin is usually just an annoying buttemporary problem, and rarely indicates a serious underlying cause.
But you should see your GP if your itch:
- is severe
- lasts for a long time
- keeps coming back
- is associated with other symptoms such asredness and swelling, or yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes(jaundice)
- is all over your body, with no obvious cause
Findyour local GP.
Diagnosing the cause
The medical name for itching is pruritus.
Your GP will ask you about your symptoms for example, if anything makes your itch worse, or if your itch comes and goes. They'll also examine your skin to look for visible symptoms.
In some cases, they may take a skin scraping or a swab so it can be tested to help identify the cause of your itching.
A blood testmay also be carried out to look for underlying problems, such as thyroid or kidney disease.
Depending on the cause ofyour itch, you may be referred to ahospital specialist for a further assessment and specific treatment.
Common causes of itching
Itching can be caused by a number of different conditions, including:
- skin conditionssuch aseczema
- allergies or skin reactions
- parasitic infestationssuch asscabies
- insect bites andstings
- fungal infectionssuch asathlete's foot or vaginal thrush
- hormonal changes during pregnancy or the menopause
- an underlying condition such as liver or kidney problems,or an overactive thyroid gland
Read aboutthe possible causes of itching.
Managingitching
If you experience troublesome itching, the following advice may help:
- pat or tap the itchy area, rather than scratching it
- hold a cold compress, such as adamp flannel, over the affected area to cool it down
- bathe or shower in cool or lukewarm water
- use unperfumed personal hygiene products
- avoidclothes that irritate your skin, such as wool or man-made fabrics
- usea moisturiser oremollient if your skin is dry or flaky
Over-the-countermedicines, such asantihistamines and steroid creams, may help relieve itching caused by certain skin conditions.
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Articles for Itching
Causes
Read about the causes of itching. An itch is often caused by a condition affecting the skin, but it can be a sign of a more serious underlying problem.
Introduction
Itching (prutitis) is an unpleasant sensation that compels a person to scratch the affected area.
Treatment
Read about treatments for itching. The treatment for itching will largely depend on the cause.