General Itch
Itch (your doctor may call it pruritus) is an uncomfortable sensation in the skin that often provokes an urge to scratch or rub the area for relief. Itch can be intense or just a nuisance.
Depending on the cause, itch can occur in only one area of the body (localized) or all over the body (widespread). Itch can be benign (no cause for concern) or the symptom of a serious medical condition.
Most people will experience itch during their lifetime, but some people are more susceptible to itch than others-such as people with seasonal or food allergies, diabetes, HIV/AIDS and certain types of cancer, pregnant women, and the elderly.
Although most people with itch do not have a serious underlying condition, see your doctor for accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.
Symptoms
Itch is a symptom of many health conditions. The causes of itch are many, but can be generally classified into the following categories:
- Localized–such as insect bites or stings
- Systemic–either physical or psychological
- - Physical–such as allergic reactions to food or medications or diseases such as having HIV or diabetes
- - Psychological–such as anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Skin Disease–such as eczema, seborrhea, or psoriasis
- Exposure–related (environmental)-such as sunburn or irritating chemicals
- Hormonal–such as pregnancy (cholestasis of pregnancy) or menopause
Since itch is sometimes a symptom of a condition that requires medical care, see a doctor for a correct diagnosis.
Prevention
No matter what the cause of the itch, keeping your skin healthy is an important preventative measure. Drinking plenty of liquids, eating a healthy diet, and protecting your skin from the elements with hypoallergenic moisturizing face and body lotions and sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) and protective clothing will help prevent some skin conditions that may lead to itch.
Avoiding harsh soaps, laundry detergents and other chemicals, extreme temperatures, and irritating clothing can also help prevent skin irritation that may lead to itch. Using a humidifier in your home to maintain a moist environment may also help with the itch that sometimes results from dry skin.
Treatment
Removing or managing the cause of the itch is the first step toward itch relief. Since itch can be a symptom of a condition that requires medical care, make sure to see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.