Itching (Pruritus)

Itching can be very annoying and it can be caused by many things, which include an allergic reaction to something one has eaten or an insect bite. Itching can be local (in one area) or it may be all over your body.
Constant scratching can damage the skin, which can lead to further aggravation.

Itching can also develop from dry or inflamed skin, which could be caused by cosmetic products or detergents. Certain medications can cause itching.
It can occur as a symptom of many underlying conditions, such as:

• Infections (chickenpox, scabies)
• Pregnancy
• Drug allergy
• Senile pruritis (itch in the elderly)

How do I treat it?

You can treat the symptoms of the affected area. If you are itchy as a result of dry skin then, you should moisturise the affected area. If your skin becomes hot from scratching you can use over the counter medicines such as calamine lotion, which will cool the affected area.

If your skin is itchy, it may become sensitive and easily irritated. You should avoid using perfumes and strongly scented bath products as this may cause further irritation. Similarly certain types of fibres can also affect your skin, such as woolly jumpers. You should wear well-ventilated cotton clothes to stop your skin from sweating which can irritate the affected site further.
Another tip is to keep your fingernails short to minimise damage caused to your skin when scratching.
If the itching persists and nothing seems to work, or the itching gets progressively worse you should arrange to see your GP. 

Written by Medpages Editorial Team
Last Editorial Review: 18/1/2010