Itching Or Itching Of The Skin: Causes And Recommendations

Itchy skin or itching is often a reason why adults and children go to the dermatologist. There are many causes of this phenomenon, from trivial problems to more serious problems.

Specialists define itching or itching of the skin as an annoying feeling that causes the desire to scratch you. Itching is usually a consequence of the body’s reflex response to immune or chemical stimuli. Histamine is almost always seen.

What is itching or itching of the skin?

It is important to clarify that itching is a symptom, not a disease in itself. It can take a wide variety of forms, and some of them may not be related to the skin. It can also be localized or generalized.

It is important to analyze the itching from the onset. Are there any factors that triggered it? What attenuates it? Has this ever happened to you? Have you dealt with anything before? If so, what was the body’s response to that treatment? All these details will serve as a diagnostic guide and will help determine the origin of the pruritus.

Acute pruritus occurs when symptoms last less than six weeks. If it lasts longer, it becomes a chronic problem. It can appear on the scalp, trunk or extremities.

The main causes of itchy skin

As already mentioned, primary skin lesions can accompany itching. In this case, you may have a dermatological disorder.

In contrast, in those without skin lesions or in those who have only secondary lesions caused by itching, it is likely to be an external cause. This category includes neurological and psychogenic disorders.

Localized itching that occurs without a rash suggests the possibility of psychogenic or neuropathic itching. In these people, symptoms associated with burning, pain or loss of sensitivity may occur.

Itching occurs due to nerve transmission disorders that are related to neuropathies. Peripheral nerves transmit information poorly and generate the itching sensation inside the skin, causing the affected person to scratch constantly.

Itching is a common disorder, but experts do not fully understand the pathogenic mechanisms that cause itching. A key part of assessing this problem is based on the presence of a primary skin disorder.

If primary skin lesions are identified but the diagnosis remains uncertain, a skin biopsy may be helpful. In general, the absence of clear and visible problems implies a non-dermatological cause.

Despite the fact that many of the causes are trivial and the lesions heal spontaneously, there are other forms that require medical care.

It is best to have short and clean nails and rub the itchy area only with the palm of your hand. Avoid tight clothing, wear more cotton than synthetic fabrics or wool and avoid hot baths.

Use only neutral soaps and moisturizers. Specialists advocate the consumption of coffee, alcohol or spicy foods, as they can stimulate the release of histamine in the body. There are many treatment options, but it is best to consult your doctor first.