who to contact for cause and treatment of itching

Common Causes

Depending on the cause, a person may experience an itching sensation all over their body or in one specific area. The itching can vary from mild to extreme. If a person is concerned about unexplained itching, extreme itching, or itching that lasts a long time, they should see their doctor to determine the cause and get advice about treatments.

Related Conditions

You may need to undergo more tests if your doctor can’t determine the cause of your itching from your answers and a physical exam. Once your doctor has pinpointed the cause of your itchiness, you can be treated. If the cause is a disease or infection, they will suggest the best course of treatment for the underlying problem.

When to see a doctor for itching all over the body?

If the itch is due to dry skin, your dermatologist may recommend making some skin care changes and using generous amounts of moisturizer. Medication or cancer treatment. Itch can be a side effect of taking some medications, such as aspirin, prescription-strength pain relievers called opioids, and some blood-pressure drugs.

What should I do if I have itchy skin?

Avoid items or situations that cause you to itch. Try to identify what's causing your symptoms and avoid it. This might be heavy, rough clothing; an overly heated room; too many hot baths or exposure to a cleaning product. Moisturize daily.

Why does my skin itch when I go to the dermatologist?

What can I do about an itchy scalp?

What doctor do I see for itching?

You're likely to start by seeing your family doctor or primary care doctor. In some cases, you may be referred to a specialist in skin diseases (dermatologist).

What do dermatologists do for itchy skin?

If you have a skin condition that is causing your itch, your dermatologist will prescribe medicine to treat that skin condition. This may include oral medications that you take by mouth, topical medications that you apply to your skin or medications that are injected via a shot.

What causes body itching and treatment?

Itching can be caused by toxins on the skin (contact dermatitis, such as from poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, or grass oils), medications, liver disease, kidney disease, insect bites, hives (urticarial), rare forms of skin cancer (mycosis fungoides and T-cell lymphomas), infections (including chickenpox and ...

How do I stop severe itching?

How to relieve itchy skinApply cool treatments. Apply a cold compress or a wet washcloth to small areas of skin that may be itchy due to a rash, bug bite, or burn. ... Take an oatmeal bath for additional relief. ... Apply moisturizer to damp skin. ... Consider combination therapies for chronic itchy skin.

What deficiency causes skin itching?

You may experience red, dry and itchy skin due to vitamin D deficiency. Intake of vitamin D can help you treat such skin problems. It can also reduce skin rashes.

Which tablet is best for itching?

Drugs for Itchy SkinCetirizine. Cetirizine is an antihistamine, prescribed for allergic reactions. ... Fluoxetine. Fluoxetine is an antidepressant, prescribed for depression and anxiety. ... Gabapentin. Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant, prescribed for postherpetic neuralgia, and epilepsy. ... Hydrocortisone. ... Piperazine. ... Tacrolimus.

What infection causes itching?

Itching may be a symptom of an infection, such as: chickenpox or another viral infection. athlete's foot – a fungal infection that causes itching in between the toes. ringworm – a fungal infection that causes a ring-like red rash to develop on the skin and can cause an itchy scalp.

Which antihistamine is best for itching?

Claritin and Zyrtec are popular over-the-counter antihistamines. Doctors consider them safe and effective treatments for minor allergies. Both are second-generation antihistamines. These cause less drowsiness than first-generation antihistamines.

What cancers cause itching skin?

Itching is a common symptom of skin lymphoma, T-cell lymphoma, and Hodgkin's lymphoma. Itching is less common in most types of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

What to drink to stop itching?

Colloidal oatmeal Colloidal oatmeal can help to relieve dryness and itching. Colloidal oatmeal also has known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, both of which help to reduce skin irritation.

What part of the body itches with liver problems?

Symptoms of itching with liver disease Itching associated with liver disease tends to be worse in the late evening and during the night. Some people may itch in one area, such as a limb, the soles of their feet, or the palms of their hands, while others experience an all-over itch.

What home remedy can I use to stop itching at night?

Home remedies and lifestyle changesApply a lubricating, alcohol-free moisturizer to your skin during the day and before bed.Apply cool, wet compresses to soothe the itch.Take a bath in lukewarm water and colloidal oatmeal or baking soda.Turn on a humidifier.

What foods cause itching?

When it comes to food allergies, peanuts, wheat, eggs, cow's milk, soy and shellfish are among the most common culprits. The itchiness caused by these foods and subsequent scratching can then lead to flare-ups or worsening of dermatitis symptoms.

What to do if your skin is itchy?

It’s important to see a doctor for itchiness if the cause isn’t obvious. They can find the underlying cause and provide treatments for relief. Several home remedies such as over-the-counter creams and moisturizers work well for itching.

What to do if your itch is more superficial?

When the cause is more superficial, you may receive a prescription for a cream that will help relieve the itching .

Where is the rash on the nose?

Common in babies and children. Rash is often located in the area around the mouth, chin, and nose. Irritating rash and fluid-filled blisters that pop easily and form a honey-colored crust. Read full article on impetigo.

What are the causes of skin rash?

The following can affect any area of skin on the body: dermatitis: inflammation of the skin. eczema: a chronic skin disorder that includes itchy, scaly rashes. psoriasis: an autoimmune disease that causes skin redness and irritation, usually in the form of plaques.

How long does poison ivy rash last?

Rash appears approximately 4 to 48 hours after contact with the plant and may last up to a month after exposure. Intense itching, redness, and swelling as well as fluid-filled blisters.

What causes a long lasting itch?

Bugs that can cause long-lasting itch, include bed bugs, lice, and mites (scabies). Itchy skin condition. The list of skin conditions that can cause intense itch is long and includes: How to get relief: To get relief, you must know which skin condition you have.

Why does my skin itch when I bite a mosquito?

When a mosquito bites you, the cause of your itchy skin is usually obvious, and the itch tends to go away quickly. When bugs live on your skin or feed on you every night, the itch can be long-lasting and uncontrollable. Bugs that can cause long-lasting itch, include bed bugs, lice, and mites (scabies).

Why do I get blisters on my skin?

Seabather’s eruption is caused by newly hatched jellyfish or sea anemones getting trapped between your skin and your swimsuit, fins, or other gear. Because it can take time for the itchy rash to appear , some people are unaware of the cause.

What happens if you get an allergic reaction?

If you develop an allergic reaction, you’ll likely have a rash and an uncontrollable itch. How to get relief: You must find out what’s causing your allergy so that you can stop touching (or using) what’s causes the itchy rash. This can be challenging and often requires the help of a dermatologist or an allergist.

How long does shingles itch last?

Long after the shingles rash clears, you can have pain, numbness, itching, and tingling that can last for months — or years. How to get relief: If you have severe itch (or pain), tell your dermatologist, who may prescribe a medication.

How to get relief from atopic dermatitis?

How to get relief: To get relief, you must know which skin condition you have. The best way to get an accurate diagnosis is to see a board-certified dermatologist. If you have been diagnosed with atopic dermatitis or psoriasis, relieving the itch can be a challenge.

What are some products that are allergic to nickel?

Products that contain nickel include cell phones, jewelry, eyeglass frames, zippers, and belt buckles.

What causes itching on the body?

When itching occurs on only one part of the body, it is usually caused by a problem in the skin. 1 The specific area of the body that itches may give a clue as to the cause of the itch. Causes of localized pruritus by body part include: 1 Whole body: Atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, psoriasis 2 Scalp : Psoriasis, head lice, seborrheic dermatitis 3 Eyelids : Allergic conjunctivitis, allergic dermatitis 4 Nose : Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) 5 Ears : Otitis externa (swimmer's ear) 6 Trunk: Psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, folliculitis, scabies 7 Arms : Psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, brachioradialis pruritis 8 Legs : Atopic dermatitis behind the knees, pruritic rashes of the knee, xerosis (dry skin), dermatitis herpetiformis 9 Hands and feet : Contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, pompholyx, ringworm, scabies 10 Groin or armpits: Tinea cruris (jock itch), yeast infections 11 Anus : Pruritus ani, pinworms, hemorrhoids

Why does my skin itch?

Itching occurs when nerve fibers in the skin send a message to the brain. Itching and pain are closely related sensations, in that the same nerves transmit both signals to the brain. In addition to whatever causes an itch in the first place, scratching can often lead to even more itching.

What causes a rash on one part of the body?

Localized Pruritus. When itching occurs on only one part of the body, it is usually caused by a problem in the skin. 1 The specific area of the body that itches may give a clue as to the cause of the itch. Causes of localized pruritus by body part include: Whole body: Atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, psoriasis.

What tests are done for pruritus?

Tests for generalized pruritus may include a complete blood count, kidney function tests, liver function tests, thyroid function test, a stool culture, and an HIV test.

What causes a rash that is not present?

2  Some of the conditions and causes of generalized itching, especially when a rash is not present, include: Allergies, including anaphylaxis and systemic dermatitis.

How to get rid of priuritus?

Only apply soap to the groin, armpits, anal area, under the breasts, and areas of oily skin. Apply a mild moisturizing cream immediately after bathing. Humidify your home to at least 40%, especially during dry, cold months.

What is it called when you scratch your body?

Pruritus refers to an unpleasant sensation that causes the need to scratch, commonly called itching by most people. Pruritus may be localized to a certain area of the body or can be all over or generalized. When a rash goes along with the pruritus, it's usually easy to determine the cause and treat it. The most difficult cases of pruritus are those ...

What to do if you are on a medication that makes your skin itchy?

If a person suspects that a medication is causing itching skin, they should speak to a doctor before coming off the drug. The doctor can advise about the best course of action and alternative medications if needed. Sometimes, a doctor may halt the current medication to see whether that is causing the itching.

Why does my skin itch?

The causes of skin itching, or pruritis, are usually harmless. They are often linked with temporary issues, such as dry skin or a bug bite. Less commonly, problems with the nerves, kidneys, thyroid, or liver can cause itching sensations without necessarily causing a rash. Depending on the cause, a person may experience an itching sensation all ...

What medications cause itching?

The following drugs have itching skin as a possible side effect: 1 prescription pain relievers in the opioid category, such as acetaminophen, morphine, and fentanyl 2 some medications that lower blood pressure

Why does my kidney itch without a rash?

Kidney disease, especially in the advanced stages, can cause itching without a rash. The cause of itching in kidney disease is not well known, but scientists believe that many factors are involved. If a person knows that they have kidney problems and starts to develop itching skin, they should contact their doctor.

How to get rid of dry skin?

The following tips can help relieve dry skin and prevent it from drying out further: Avoid using soaps with harsh chemicals, as these can dry out the skin. Instead, try to use hypoallergenic and fragrance free soaps and skin care products. Use a humidifier at home to add moisture to the air.

Can you get a rash without itching?

Diagnosis. Takeaway. Itching and rashes are symptoms that seem to go together. However, it is possible to experience itchy skin without having a visible rash or any noticeable skin changes. The causes of skin itching, or pruritis, are usually harmless.

Can you get dialysis for itching?

In some cases, a person may need dialysis. This is a medical procedure wherein a doctor uses a machine to act in the place of the kidneys to filter the blood. Dermatologists can prescribe one of several medications to help people with itching skin from kidney disease. 6.

Why does my skin itch when I touch it?

Contact dermatitis: This itchy rash is caused by a reaction to something touching your skin. You may have to do some detective work to figure out where it’s coming from. It could be the metals in your jewelry or the chemicals in cosmetics, toiletries, and cleaning products.

What to do if you have a rash on your face?

Start with the simplest solutions. Try a different fabric, take care of your skin, and avoid anything that seems to trigger the itch. If that doesn’t help, ask your doctor, who will check on the cause and the treatment you need.

Why do I get a rash when I scratch my face?

It can happen because of: Fungal and bacterial infections like impetigo and folliculitis. See a photo of what impetigo looks like. Bugs: When you get bitten by a mosquito or spider, you know it.

Why does my skin itch when I'm pregnant?

Psoriasis: It makes your body overproduce skin cells, which pile up in itchy, inflamed patches on the skin’s surface. This is a result of an overactive immune system. See a photo of what psoriasis looks like. Pregnancy: More than 1 in 10 pregnant women say itching is a problem.

Why do I get hives?

Hives: You get them from allergies. They look like raised welts that show up alone or in clusters, and they are usually itchy. Stress, heat, exercise, or exposure to the sun can also bring them out. See a photo of what hives look like.

Why do I scratch my skin?

Some mental conditions give people the urge to scratch or pick at themselves. They may feel like their skin is crawling with something. There is no rash, but there may be skin damage from scratching. Compulsive scratching can be a sign of: Depression.

How to treat itchy skin?

To help soothe itchy skin, dermatologists recommend the following tips: 1 Apply a cold, wet cloth or ice pack to the skin that itches. Do this for about five to 10 minutes or until the itch subsides. 2 Take an oatmeal bath. This can be very soothing, especially for blisters or oozing skin due to chickenpox, hives, poison ivy or sunburn. 3 Moisturize your skin. Always choose a moisturizer free of additives, fragrances and perfumes. 4 Apply topical anesthetics that contain pramoxine. 5 Apply cooling agents, such as menthol or calamine. You could also place your moisturizer in the refrigerator to help achieve this cooling effect.

Why does my skin itch?

There are many reasons for itchy skin. It could be the result of a skin condition, such as eczema, shingles, hives, or psoriasis, or it could be a sign of a contagious disease, like scabies or ringworm. To help soothe itchy skin, dermatologists recommend the following tips: Apply a cold, wet cloth or ice pack to the skin that itches.

How to get rid of itch in the winter?

Avoid extreme temperature changes. Maintain a relatively cool, neutral humidity environment in your house. Use a humidifier during winter if you are prone to dry skin and eczema. Reduce stress, as stress can make your itch worse. If your itch does not go away with home treatment, see a board-certified dermatologist.

How to stop itching from a swollen ear?

Try to limit your bath or shower to just 10 minutes. Always use “fragrance-free” lotions, soaps and detergents to minimize irritation.

How to stop itching from scratching?

Bathe with lukewarm – not hot – water. Try to limit your bath or shower to just 10 minutes.

How to treat oozing skin from chickenpox?

This can be very soothing, especially for blisters or oozing skin due to chickenpox, hives, poison ivy or sunburn. Moisturize your skin. Always choose a moisturizer free of additives, fragrances and perfumes. Apply topical anesthetics that contain pramoxine. Apply cooling agents, such as menthol or calamine.

What causes contact dermatitis?

Causes. Contact dermatitis is caused by a substance you're exposed to that irritates your skin or triggers an allergic reaction. The substance could be one of thousands of known allergens and irritants. Some of these substances may cause both irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis.

How long does it take for a rash to clear up from contact dermatitis?

If you can avoid the offending substance, the rash usually clears up in two to four weeks. You can try soothing your skin with cool, wet compresses, anti-itch creams and other self-care steps.

How to prevent rash from a rash?

General prevention steps include the following: Avoid irritants and allergens. Try to identify and avoid substances that irritate your skin or cause an allergic reaction. Wash your skin. You might be able to remove most of the rash-causing substance if you wash your skin right away after coming into contact with it.

What causes red rash on skin?

Symptoms. Contact dermatitis usually affects areas of skin directly exposed to an offending substance. Here, the dry, red rash is likely caused by cosmetics or soap. Blisters such as these are common in a skin reaction to urushiol, the highly allergenic oily substance in poison ivy. Contact dermatitis usually occurs on areas ...

Why does my skin get wet when I scratch it?

Contact dermatitis can lead to an infection if you repeatedly scratch the affected area, causing it to become wet and oozing. This creates a good place for bacteria or fungi to grow and may cause an infection.

What is the reaction to poison ivy?

Blisters such as these are common in a skin reaction to urushiol, the highly allergenic oily substance in poison ivy. Contact dermatitis usually occurs on areas of your body that have been directly exposed to the reaction-causing substance — for example, along a calf that brushed against poison ivy or under a watchband.

How to get rid of poison ivy on skin?

Use moisturizer. Regularly applying moisturizing lotions can help restore your skin's outermost layer and keep your skin supple. Take care around pets. Allergens from plants, such as poison ivy, can cling to pets and then be spread to people.

Itchy, Irritated Skin: What's Happening Inside Your Body

Diagnosis

Treatment

Working with Your Doctor

• Tracking down the cause of your itch can take time and involve a physical exam and questions about your medical history. If your doctor thinks your itchy skin is the result of a medical condition, you might have tests, including: 1. Blood test.A complete blood count can provide evi…

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Summary