Itching is an unpleasant sensation that compels a person to scratch the affected area. It is a common symptom but occasionally may be severe and frustrating. The medical name for itching is pruritus.
Itching can affect any area of the body. It can either be:
- generalised – where itching occurs over the whole body
- localised – where itching only occurs in a particular area
Sometimes, there is a rash or a spot where the itching occurs.
Common causes of itching
Itching can be caused by a number of different conditions. For example:
See Itching - causes for more detailed information about these possible causes of itching.
Simple changes
Treating an underlying condition that is causing itching may help to relieve the itching. However, other types of itching may be relieved by making some simple lifestyle changes. For example:
- using unperfumed personal hygiene products
- not wearing clothing that is made from wool, which may irritate your skin
- keeping skin moist
There are also medicines that can help to relieve the symptoms of itching, such as antihistamines and steroid creams.
See Itching - treatment for more information.
