Itching

Itching an uncomfortable irritation sensation produced on the skin surface probably makes one rub it with nails. Itchiness can be generalized (all over the body) or localized to a small region or spot. Itches can occur with or without skin lesions, bumps, blisters, rash, redness, etc. Mild, short-lived itching is common, but the problem can occasionally be severe and frustrating. In case of severe itching only, sometimes, we probably feel like scratching it. However, the relief from scratching will be short-lived due to mosquito bites, chickenpox, or chronic skin diseases like eczema. Under such circumstances, scratching might worsen the problem.

Itchy rash due to (a) poison ivy and (b) poison oak plants

Itching can be caused by stress, anxiety, or other emotional problems. Dry skin, prolonged exposure to the sun, etc., can cause itching. Other causes of itching include skin conditions, eg, eczema; parasitic infestations, eg, scabies; insect stings and mosquito or flea bites; kidney disease; reactions to drugs, diseases of the blood, eg, polycythemia, and certain cancers, particularly Hodgkin's disease. Itching is common with allergic reactions, such as food allergies, autoimmune diseases like Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), hives, jock itch, ringworm, and latex allergies. Infections that can cause itching are measles, fungal infections, chickenpox, bites by bed bugs, pinworms, scabies, and body lice.

Internal disorders like anemia, cirrhosis, thyroid disease, and lymphoma might cause itchiness. Other causes might be side effects after several illnesses, including kidney dialysis, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy. Genital itching or anal/Vaginal itching occurs due to genital infections, as in sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Medications including antifungals, antibiotics, and even pain relievers can also cause widespread itching.

Irritation of the skin from contact with wool, fabrics, cosmetics, soaps, or other substances like poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, and wood nettle can lead cause rashes and itching. Conditions, including dandruff, can cause itching of the scalp. [Ishrat Jabeen]