Itching is a reaction the skin can exhibit due to many different reasons and may not solely indicate dermatological problems. Itching can be a symptom of various diseases, from liver disorders to kidney failure. For this reason, it is important not to neglect itching that lasts more than a few days and to consult a specialist dermatologist.
Factors Causing Itching
The common causes of itching are,
• Dry skin,
• Food allergies,
• Exposure to heat,
• Kidney diseases,
• Liver diseases,
• Insect and bug bites,
• Psychiatric disorders,
• Eczema,
• Diabetes,
• Thyroid diseases,
• Cancer,
• AIDS,
• Certain drug side effects,
• Certain infections.
How is Itching Treated?
The most common cause of itching is dry skin. To prevent dry skin, it is crucial to regularly moisturize the skin. Some dermatological diseases can also cause itching.
Fungal Infections
Fungus, a frequently encountered dermatological condition, is an infectious disease. It causes infection, redness, swelling, and itching on the skin. The treatment involves a method to slow down the growth of the fungus. The duration of the treatment may vary depending on the location and type of the fungus.
Scabies
Scabies, a contagious disease, might be confused with allergies or insect bites due to the itching and skin rashes it causes in the early stage; however, the symptoms caused by scabies mites can be distinguished by your doctor for a quick and accurate diagnosis.
Scabies itch usually lasts all day but is characteristically more intense at night. The most common treatment for scabies is lotions and pills aimed at killing the mites and alleviating symptoms. Treatment quickly eliminates scabies mites, but the allergic symptoms they cause may continue for a while longer.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a lifelong condition, and its treatment follows a route to alleviate and eliminate symptoms. It is characterized by itchy plaques in various areas of the body, pitting on nails, and nail thickening.
Eczema
Eczema is a skin disease that appears with blisters and symptoms of skin dryness. Being a chronic condition, eczema is treated symptomatically to alleviate and eliminate symptoms.
Hives (Urticaria)
Known as hives among the public, urticaria manifests as raised red itchy spots. Recurrent cases may raise suspicion of chronic urticaria. In the treatment of urticaria, in addition to symptom-relieving medications, antidepressant drugs may also be utilized.
Chickenpox
Chickenpox, presenting with water-filled and itchy rashes, is often seen in prepubescent children. Scratching the rashes can pave the way for bacterial infections. Treatment usually involves prescribing anti-itch and antipyretic medications.
Inflammatory Skin Diseases
Skin inflammation can occur due to various dermatological diseases such as shingles, folliculitis, and impetigo. First, the cause of the infection is identified, followed by the creation of a treatment plan.
What Causes the Sensation of Itching in the Body?
The sensation of itching in the body is a condition that often negatively affects daily life. Itching should not be considered solely a problem of the skin surface; some systemic diseases can also cause itching. Especially in cases of long-lasting and recurrent itching, it is crucial to investigate the underlying cause. Itching can be a symptom of not only dermatological conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and fungus but also internal diseases such as liver, kidney, and thyroid disorders.
Dry skin is one of the most common causes of itching. During seasonal transitions or in dry weather conditions, moisture loss in the skin can especially cause itching on the legs. Although itching due to the weakening of the skin’s natural barrier can be resolved with moisturizing care products, it may become chronic if the underlying disease is not treated.
Why Does Itching Increase at Night?
The most common factor among the causes of night itching is the increase in body temperature. Increased skin sensitivity during sleep makes the itching sensation more intense. Parasitic diseases like scabies particularly manifest with intensified night itching. Besides, conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may also lead to intense itching due to sleep sweating and skin friction. This condition, which disrupts sleep quality, can also negatively affect the quality of life.
Itching in the Legs: Just Dry Skin?
Itching in the legs is a common complaint in daily life, but the causes are often overlooked. Although many associate this situation solely with dry skin, the underlying reasons can be much more complex. Persistent, night-intensified itching or itching accompanied by visible changes in the skin can be an indicator of some health issues.
Dry skin is one of the most common causes of itching in the legs. Especially cold weather, climates with low humidity, harsh soaps, frequent hot showers, and insufficient water consumption weaken the skin’s protective barrier, leading to moisture loss. This can result in tension, flaking, and itching in the legs. As one ages, the skin becomes drier, which can increase itching complaints.
Skin conditions such as eczema (atopic dermatitis), psoriasis, and contact dermatitis are also significant causes of itching in the legs. These diseases usually aren’t limited to itching alone but also include redness, scaling, rashes, or acne-like formations. Conditions like eczema can worsen after exposure to stress, soaps, detergents, or certain fabrics.
Circulatory disorders are another common but non-skin-related cause of leg itching. Those who suffer from varicose veins might develop venous insufficiency. In such cases, the insufficient return of blood from the legs to the heart can cause redness, bruising, and itching on the skin. Over time, brown spots and thickening can also appear on the skin.
Some individuals may experience allergic reactions from cosmetics used, post-shaving lotions, laundry detergents, or chemicals in clothing. This may cause irritation and itching on the skin. Allergy-induced itching usually starts suddenly and spreads quickly. In such cases, identifying and avoiding the allergen is crucial.
Although rare, itching that occurs in the legs could be indicative of certain systemic diseases. Liver, kidney, and thyroid disorders, or conditions like iron deficiency, may cause widespread or localized itching in the body. Diabetics may also experience leg itching due to skin dryness and affected nerve endings.
Psychological conditions such as stress, anxiety disorders, and depression can also increase the sensation of itching on the skin. Itching feeling might develop without any physical cause and worsen with scratching. Psychologically originated itching typically isn’t confined to a specific area and is felt more widely.
When to Consult a Doctor?
If itching in the legs has been ongoing for a long time and is accompanied by wounds, color changes, flaking, or rashes on the skin, consulting a dermatologist is a must. If the itching is spreading to other parts of the body or significantly affecting daily life, an investigation into underlying systemic diseases may be necessary.
While itching in the legs could be a simple dryness problem, it might also be a sign of more serious health issues. Therefore, the duration, severity, and accompanying symptoms of the issue should be carefully monitored and medical assistance sought if necessary. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment enhance quality of life and prevent potential complications.
Leg itching is often linked to dryness of the skin. Sometimes, this could be a sign of a more serious health issue. Circulatory problems, venous insufficiency, eczema, or psoriasis, like chronic skin diseases, can cause itching in the legs. The habit of showering with hot water, in particular, can disrupt the skin’s moisture balance and exacerbate this condition.
What Can Be Done Against Itching?
The answer to what is good for itching on the body varies depending on the cause of the itch. The basic recommendation is to keep the skin hydrated and avoid irritating products. In addition:
· Take short showers with lukewarm water,
· Avoid scented soaps and detergents,
· Prefer loose, cotton clothing,
· Stay away from allergens,
· If necessary, use medical products prescribed by a dermatologist.
If the itching complaint lasts more than a few days and reaches a level that disrupts quality of life, consulting a specialist is essential. Besides dermatological diseases, systemic diseases may also need to be investigated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between eczema and psoriasis?
Eczema is a chronic skin disorder typically characterized by dry skin, redness, and itching. It's mostly triggered by allergic reactions or environmental factors. Psoriasis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder that appears due to an overactive immune system, resulting in thick, white-scaled plaques on the skin. In eczema, the skin is more sensitive and lacks moisture, while psoriasis exhibits thicker and more crusty lesions.
What relieves body itching?
To alleviate the sensation of itching on the body, the factor causing the itch should first be identified. If dry skin is the issue, moisturizers and lotions can be very effective. Using a moisturizer after showering helps reduce itching. In skin diseases like eczema or psoriasis, corticosteroid creams or immunosuppressive drugs recommended by a doctor may be required. Applying cold compresses and avoiding irritating clothes also help ease symptoms.
Why does body itching occur?
Body itching can develop due to many different reasons. Dermatological conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and fungal infections, as well as systemic disorders like liver, kidney diseases, and thyroid dysfunctions, can lead to itching. Side effects of some medications, food allergies, psychological stress, and seasonal changes are also among the causes of itching. In cases of prolonged and persistent itching, a dermatology specialist should be consulted.
What are the causes of night itching, and why does leg itching occur?
Night itching is usually exacerbated by factors such as increased skin temperature, sweating, hormonal changes, and certain dermatological diseases. Parasitic infections like scabies intensify night itching. Leg itching is mostly due to dry skin, circulation problems, or post-shaving irritation. Chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis can also cause itching and plaques in the leg regions. The cause of such complaints should be evaluated by a specialist to create an appropriate treatment plan.