What makes you itchy

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For You Children Patient Handouts. What is itching? What causes itching? Itching is a symptom of many health conditions. Some common causes are Allergic reactions to food , insect bites , pollen , and medicines Skin conditions such as eczema , psoriasis , and dry skin Irritating chemicals, cosmetics , and other substances Parasites such as pinworms , scabies , head and body lice Pregnancy Liver , kidney , or thyroid diseases Certain cancers or cancer treatments Diseases that can affect the nervous system, such as diabetes and shingles What are the treatments for itching?

Most itching is not serious. Itchy skin that is severe or lasts more than six weeks chronic pruritus can affect the quality of your life. It might interrupt your sleep or cause anxiety or depression.

Prolonged itching and scratching can increase the intensity of the itch, possibly leading to skin injury, infection and scarring. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Itchy skin is an uncomfortable, irritating sensation that makes you want to scratch.

Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Fazio SB, et al. Pruritis: Overview of management. Accessed Sept. Pruritus without rash. Mayo Clinic; James WD, et al. Pruritus and neurocutaneous dermatoses. Khetarpal says. When skin is very dry, it may require a prescription ointment or cream, she says. Does it seem like the more you scratch, the more your skin itches? Usually, itchy skin is caused by dry skin. Learn more about vaccine availability.

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