Ask a doctor - What causes itching in the body?

Q. What causes itching in the body?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Itching, also known as pruritus, can be caused by various factors. It's your body's way of signaling that something isn't quite right. Here are some common causes:

1. Dry Skin: This is one of the most common reasons for itching. When your skin lacks moisture, it becomes dry and irritated, leading to itching.

2. Allergies: Allergic reactions to certain foods, medications, or environmental factors can cause itching. Your immune system reacts to these allergens, releasing histamines that can trigger itching.

3. Skin Conditions: Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis can cause itching due to inflammation and irritation of the skin.

4. Insect Bites: Mosquitoes, bed bugs, fleas, and other insects can leave bites that cause itching. Their saliva contains compounds that can trigger allergic reactions in some people.

5. Contact Dermatitis: This occurs when your skin comes into contact with substances that irritate it, such as certain soaps, cosmetics, or plants like poison ivy.

6. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions like liver disease, kidney failure, thyroid problems, and diabetes can cause itching as a symptom.

7. Stress and Anxiety: Psychological factors can also contribute to itching. Stress and anxiety can lead to the release of certain chemicals in the body that can make your skin more sensitive and prone to itching.

8. Medications: Some medications can cause itching as a side effect. Antidepressants, antibiotics, and opioid pain medications are examples of drugs that can cause itching in some people.

9. Infections: Fungal infections like athlete's foot and yeast infections, as well as parasitic infections like scabies and lice, can cause itching as they affect the skin.

10. Dry Climate: Living in a dry climate or being exposed to dry air for extended periods can lead to dry skin and itching.

It's essential to identify the underlying cause of itching to determine the appropriate treatment. If you're experiencing persistent or severe itching, it's best to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management. They can recommend appropriate treatments or lifestyle changes to alleviate the itching and address the underlying cause.