Common Causes of Itchy Skin & Its treatment

Dr.Kanu Verma, 4 mins read

Itchy skin is very irritating. Most of the time, it’s temporary and can be eased by a gentle rub or scratch. But sometimes, it happens more than usual and may point towards an underlying medical condition. Here, we’ve listed some conditions that can cause itchy skin.

• Dry Skin

This is a fairly common cause of itchy skin. The problem is more common in older adults as skin tends to become dry with age due to slower cell regeneration. Dry skin feels like rough patches of skin that can cause flake and itching. 

Consult a dermatologist. He or she may prescribe you a moisturiser, which will heal the skin and keep your skin moisturised. Use a humidifier at home to keep a suitable humidity level in your home. Clean your skin with a gentle cleanser and avoid skin from harsh exposure. 

• Bug Bites
  

When an insect bites, the skin around the bite becomes red, itchy and swollen. The severity of bites and stings depends on the sensitivity of the person and the type of insect involved. In many cases, the itch goes on its own. But when insects live on your skin and feed on you every night, the itch can be uncomfortable and long-lasting. These insects are usually bed bugs, scabies and head lice.

The treatment depends on the type of bug involved. For bedbug treatment, a dermatologist usually recommends anti-itch creams, antihistamines or other medications based on your condition. In the case of scabies, doctors usually prescribe creams, ointments and lotions. And for head lice treatment, use wet combing, medicated lotions and creams to get relief.

• Skin Conditions

Some conditions, like chickenpox, folliculitis, dyshidrotic eczema, ringworm, shingles, atopic dermatitis and hives, can contribute to itchy skin. 

Talk to your doctor. He or she will evaluate your condition and begin your treatment based on underlying problems. 

• Medication
  

Taking some medications like aspirin, certain blood pressure drugs and pain relievers can result in itch. Talk to your doctor and ask them for tips to reduce the itch.

• Reaction to a Plant
  

Having a backyard, roof or balcony full of flowers and plants seems wonderful, but following plants are known to cause skin reactions.

• Tomato
• Garlic
  
• Strawberry
  
• Boarge
  
• Rose hips
  
• Tulip bulbs
  
• Hot peppers
  
• Hyacinth bulbs
  

If you have a history of having an itch from these plants, immediately rinse your skin and apply wet compression. For a severe problem, seek medical help.

• Medical Conditions
  

The long-standing itch can be a sign of the following underlying medical conditions:

• Diabetes
  
• HIV
  
• Liver disease
  
• Blood disease
  
• Overactive thyroid gland
  
• Kidney disease
  
• Nerve problems, like shingles and strokes
  

Getting a timely and proper treatment for the underlying condition can provide you relief from the itch.

• Allergic Skin Reaction
  

Some people have an allergic reaction to several substances. One of the common substances is nickel, which is found in many daily use things. To get relief from it, first, find out the cause of allergies and avoid those things. 

Also, Read: Skin Care Home Remedies