Itching
Definition
Itching is a tingling or uneasy irritation of the skin that makes you want to scratch the affected area.
Alternative Names
PruritusConsiderations
Itching may occur all over the whole body (generalized) or only in a specific location (localized).
Causes
There are many causes of itching. The following may cause localized or generalized itching:
- Insect bites and stings
- Sunburn
- Hives
- Parasites such as pinworm (Also see:body lice, head lice, pubic lice)
- Dry skin
- Aging skin
- Contact dermatitis (poison ivy or poison oak)
- Contact irritants (such as soaps, chemicals, or wool)
- Atopic dermatitis
- Rashes (may or may not itch)
- Superficial skin infections such as folliculitis and impetigo
- Pityriasis rosea
- Psoriasis
- Seborrheic dermatitis
Generalized itching may be caused by:
- Childhood infections (such as chicken pox or measles)
- Allergic reactions
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease with jaundice
- Reactions to medications and substances such as antibiotics (penicillin, sulfonamides), gold, griseofulvin, isoniazid, opiates, phenothiazines, or vitamin A
- Pregnancy
- Hepatitis
- Iron deficiency anemia
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