Itching

Alternative names

Pruritus

Definition

Itching is a peculiar tingling or uneasy irritation of the skin that causes a desire to scratch the affected area.

Considerations

Itching may be over the whole body (generalized), or only in a particular location (localized). There are many causes of itching, ranging from the simple to the complex.

Insect bites and stings may cause localized itching and skin irritation.

Either localized or generalized itching may be caused by:

• Chemical irritation, such as from poison ivy or stinging nettle
  
• Environmental causes such as sunburn
  
• Hives
  
• Parasites (body lice, head lice, pubic lice)
  

Generalized itching may be caused by:

• Infectious diseases (chicken pox)
  
• Allergic reactions
  
• Kidney disease
  
• Liver disease with jaundice
  
• Reactions to medications
  

Common Causes

• Insect bites
  
• Dry skin
  
• Contact dermatitis (poison ivy or poison oak)
  
• Contact irritants (such as soaps, chemicals, or wool)
  
• Atopic dermatitis
  
• Rashes (may or may not itch)
  
• Childhood infections (such as chicken pox or measles)
  
• Aging skin
  
• Allergy caused by food or drugs (antibiotics)
  
• Superficial skin infections such as folliculitis and impetigo
  
• Pregnancy
  
• Hepatitis
  
• Iron deficiency anemia
  
• Parasites such as pinworm
  
• Pityriasis rosea
  
• Psoriasis
  
• Seborrheic dermatitis
  
• Urticaria
  
• Drugs such as antibiotics (penicillin, sulfonamides), gold, griseofulvin, isoniazid, opiates, phenothiazines, or vitamin A
  

Home Care

For persistent or severe itching, see your health care provider for a precise diagnosis and specific treatment instructions.