It can interfere with daily activities and can be as debilitating as chronic pain.
There are many different causes of chronic itching.
It can be from a rash, an underlying medical condition, or dry skin.
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The first step in relieving a chronic itch is to find the cause.
After the cause is identified, it can be treated.
Some treatments can be done at home, while others require a healthcare provider’s prescription or assistance.
This article will cover some reasons chronic itching may occur along with ways to treat it.
The itch sensation can be sparked by an underlying medical condition or by something simply touching the skin.
When the itch sensation begins, it causes the urge to scratch.
Scratching can temporarily relieve itching but can also cause itching to worsen.
This is called the itch-scratch cycle.
Determining what is causing theitchy skinis the first step toward a cure.
Itching can be brought on by a range of issues, including skin conditions and psychological issues.
Here are some categories that can cause chronic itching.
For many people, dry skin is what causes their chronic itchy skin.
If there is no known cause, then treating the symptoms is the next step.
It may help to avoid hot showers and frequent tub bathing, which can cause dry skin.
Also, avoid scratching as much as possible.
It irritates the skin and can cause further damage.
Many treatments can be tried at home, but some require a healthcare provider’s prescription.
Treatments include:
Lotions:Moisturizing dry skin improves skin barrier protection.
Numbing creams:Capsaicin and menthol cream interrupt the itching sensation and provide relief.
Steroid cream:This helps reduce inflammation, which can reduce the itch.
Prescription creams:Protopic (tacrolimus) cream is used for certain types of eczema and psoriasis.
Antihistamines:Medications likeBenadryl (diphenhydramine) can reduce itching but be aware that they can cause sleepiness.
Seizure medication:Neurontin (gabapentin) is useful in treating itching associated with CKD and neurologic-related itching.
Behavioral therapy:This includesstress managementand coping techniques to stop the itch-scratch cycle.
This treatment is typically used in addition to medication.
Chronic itching can cause serious life interruptions and skin irritation.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
Itching is something that everyone has experienced.
But itching can become chronic itching that needs attention from ahealthcare provider.
The key to treating chronic itching is to find the cause.
Skin conditions, medications, stress, and anxiety can all cause chronic itching.
A Word From Verywell
Chronic itching can be frustrating to cope with.
Your sleep and daily routines may be interrupted by the sensation to itch.
Thankfully, there are many treatment options that may help, and you don’t have to suffer.
Talk to your healthcare provider or adermatologistto determine the best treatment methods for you.
Remember to tell them about any medications you may be taking or any other conditions you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no specific vitamin deficiency that causes itchiness.
Itchiness can seem worse at night for a variety of reasons.
One reason is that people tend to be more aware of the itchiness when less is happening around them.
Other causes are body temperature changes, hormones, and dry skin.
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