About Itchy Skin
Red and swollen skin accompanied with a small rash or bumps is often considered a condition of itchy skin. Flaking and scaling also may occur. Triggers of itchy skin are numerous, but the most prevalent are poison oak, poison ivy, eczema, pregnancy, menopause, or an underlying internal disease.
The itchy skin condition must first be diagnosed. A doctor should be contacted if the condition lasts longer than five days or is spreading rapidly. If weight loss, fever, or nausea occurs alongside the skin condition, then there may be a deeper underlying issue that needs to be addressed. In this case, a doctor should be seen promptly.
Contact dermatitis occurs when an individual has had physical contact with a substance that caused a negative reaction. Allergic reactions are commonly triggered by poison oak or ivy, certain jewelry, foods, chemicals or dyes, and harsh, abrasive fabrics. To treat contact dermatitis, moisturize daily, or purchase a hydrocortisone cream over-the-counter. Seek medical attention if necessary.
Eczema is a skin condition that often begins in childhood and continues throughout the individual’s life span. It is often an allergic reaction to something in the environment, such as food. Eczema is itchy and appears as leathery, scaly skin. It is treated with corticosteroids. If the trigger is unknown, an allergy test may take place. To reduce itch, lukewarm baths with baking soda or oatmeal will be suggested. TIMs, or topical immunomodulators, are another option, but are not often prescribed due to side effects.
Internal diseases and itchy skin: It is rare to have external symptoms of itchy skin if there is an internal diseases, meaning the skin may itch, but there are no bumps or rash. Liver disease, kidney failure, anemia, thyroid problems, cancer, and more are all examples of diseases that can produce itchy skin (Mayo Clinic).
What is Psoriasis? This skin condition is associated with scaly skin that is due to dead skin cells layering on top of one another. The most common treatment for psoriasis is corticosteroids.
Pregnancy may cause itchy skin, as may menopause. A gentle moisturizer is recommended to soothe the itching skin. Lukewarm oatmeal baths are also recommended. Oatmeal is a natural ingredient that soothes itch.
Summary of Itchy Skin: Various environmental factors could stimulate itchy skin. Removing the triggers or causes will help an individual be preventative. Don’t use soaps, shampoos, or any detergent that may have chemicals, dyes, or perfumes that could cause a reaction. Moisturize daily with lotions or oils. Creams may be prescribed, such as corticosteroids, or purchased over-the-counter, cortisone cream. If the entire body is itching, contact a doctor.
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