Itching

itching groin

Last Updated December 20th, 2021

Overview of itching

The scenario of skin diseases and infections is very grave in India. According to the statistics of Biospectrum India, the incidence rate of different types of skin diseases was nearly 10% in the year 2013. They also predicted that around 18.8 crore people (12% of the total population) are likely to suffer from serious skin diseases by the year 2015.

Skin irritation is a persistent problem and impacts the normal life in some way or the other. It may arise due to multiple skin problems. People having allergies, skin rashes or in the extreme cases, skin cancer tends to have mild to moderate skin irritation. A by-product of skin irritation is “itching”, which is the main focus of this article. Nearly 3% of the global population has serious skin problems accompanied by itching.

 

What is itching?

Itching rashesItching, medically termed as “pruritis” is a skin condition marked by an uncontrollable reflex to scratch or rub the skin, mainly in the area of irritation. Itch is not a disease in itself. It is rather a symptom of any existing skin disease. It may arise from numerous environmental, pathological, psychological and dietary factors and may manifest in a serious form if left untreated. In some cases, itches may arise from minor problems like seasonal allergies or some temporary infections, whereas in many other cases, they might threaten a healthy lifestyle and can even lead to death. In either case, skin itches should be diagnosed and treated after consultation with a dermatologist.

 

What are the main signs and symptoms of itching?

Itching is easily identifiable through the following symptoms-

  • A tendency to rub and scratch the skin frequently
  • Pinprick or tingling sensation in some parts of the skin (evokes scratching)
  • Reddish discoloration of the skin after repeated scratching
  • The appearance of flakes at the site of itching
  • Formation of rashes or bruises on the skin on being scratched by some sharp object
  • Dryness and tenderness of the affected skin

 

What causes itching?

itching groinThe wide range of aetiological factors causing an itchy skin are given below-

Infections

Infection-induced itches may arise from the following conditions:

  • Allergic reaction: It may be caused by chemicals (Eg: Urushiol) or other allergic agents like pollen grains, animal dander etc.
  • Louse: Head louse or body louse common in people living in unhygienic conditions.
  • Diseases: Psoriasis, Dermatitis, Eczema and a few more can cause itch.
  • Insect bites: Mainly the ones due to mosquitoes and bugs.
  • Shaving: Using an infected razor or epilator, shaving with the same razor a number of times, not sanitizing the razor before use.
  • Swimmer’s itch: It is an immune reaction.

 

Environmental and allergic reaction

It is caused by

  • Presence of foreign objects on the skin
  • The occurrence of hives (urticaria)

 

Skin disorders

The following diseases lead to chronic itches

  • Dandruff: Causes itching and flake formation on the scalp.
  • Palmoplantar keratoderma: Results in an abnormal thickening of the palm and sole skin.
  • Skin conditions: Psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema, athlete’s foot.
  • Scab: It is characterized by the development of pimples, moles, scars and ingrown hairs from below the epidermis.
  • Xerosis: Dry and flaky skin resulting from dry weather or bathing in hot water.

 

Medical disorders

The following medical disorders can give rise to skin itch

  • Diabetes mellitus: High blood glucose.
  • Thyroid disorders: Hyperactive parathyroid gland.
  • Anemia: Caused by iron deficiency.
  • Jaundice: High bilirubin.
  • Menopause: Cessation of menses, hormonal fluctuations.
  • Polycythemia: Itching occurs due to the release of excess histamines.
  • Uraemia: Itching, in this case, is known as uremic pruritus.

 

Medications

Itching can occur as a side effect of any of the following drugs

  • Opioids: Triggers the release of histamines that induce itches.
  • Chloroquine

 

Pregnancy

  • Gestational pemphigoid: This is a form of dermatosis found in pregnant women.
  • Intrahepatic cholestasis
  • Pruritic Urticarian Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy (PUPPP): Appearance of hives.

 

What are the different types of itching?

itchng woundsThe classification of itching is done mainly based on the source of origin of the sensory reflexes. It can originate either in the central or the peripheral nervous system. The different types of itching are as follows-

  • Dermal itch: It originates in the skin and is also known as pruritoceptive itch. It can arise from thermal, chemical, mechanical and electrical stimulation. Dermal itch arises from the stimulation of the nociceptors present in the epidermis and the epidermal/dermal transition layers.
  • Neuropathic itch: This arises due to damage to the nervous system. It can originate at any point in the afferent pathway. Neuropathic itch is commonly seen in people suffering from diseases like- brain tumors, brachioradial pruritis, multiple sclerosis and nerve irritation.
  • Neurogenic itch: It originates in the central nervous system, but is not accompanied by any neural damage. It is mainly associated with an excess accumulation of exogenous and synthetic opioids.
  • Psychogenic itch: Certain psychiatric disorders like obsessive-compulsive disorders, tactile hallucinations, can give rise to psychogenic itching.

 

What are the different diagnostic tests for itching?

The following diagnostic tests are usually recommended by the dermatologists-

  • Radioallergosorbent test (RAST)
  • Blood tests (CBC)
  • Biopsy (to rule out cancer)

 

How to treat itches?

Topical medications, mainly the antipruritics prove to be effective for treating itches. The commonly prescribed drugs are as follows-

  • Antihistamines: Benadryl
  • Corticosteroids
  • Anti-irritants: Menthol, mint oil
  • Crotamiton (Eurax): A lotion used to treat scabies.
  • Local anesthetics: Lanacane

Itching caused by renal failure is best treated by phototherapy.

 

Treatment and prevention

There are no specific treatment methods aimed at treating this condition. The correct diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause of itching are usually how itching is controlled. Antihistamines and OTC ointments can help in treating itching if the underlying reason for itching is an allergic reaction or simply dryness. In order to prevent itching, one must be aware of the what he/she is allergic to and protect oneself from exposing to these elements. Similarly, if any itching sensation prevails for a longer time, one should consult a doctor and find out what the is the causing agent.

Nearly 280 million people all over the world have the problem of itching. Dermatologists usually emphasize on understanding the nature of skin itch in order to carry out a proper diagnosis and treatment. Nothing can be done about the factors that cannot be controlled such as genetic factors. It is therefore advisable to regulate the factors such as diet and protection against environmental pollution to minimize the complications that cause skin irritation.

 

Dos and Don'ts

Dos
  • The best way to get instant relief from itching is using soothing moisturizing lotions on the affected area, cold packs, and taking lukewarm baths.
  • Over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone creams are helpful in reducing itching.
  • Sometimes, corticosteroid medications may also be prescribed to help with the itching. Camphor, menthol, Benadryl etc are also beneficial.
Don'ts
  • Rub alcohol at the point of itching. Though it might help kill the bacteria, alcohol tends to dry out the skin which aggravates itching.
  • Delay the treatment if the allergic reaction/insect bite etc is causing severe itching and formation of hives.

 

 

 

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Amylase Test Amylase test is done by checking the level of this protein in the blood sample and also in…
fructosamine test
Fructosamine Test A fructosamine test measures blood sugar glucose content. Fructosamine level can indicate blood sugar level in past 2-3…
Rubella IgM test
Rubella IgM Test The Rubella IgM test is a blood test that is performed to diagnose the presence of the rubella…
antiHEV IgM test
Anti hepatitis E virus (Anti HEV) IgM Test Anti HEV IgM test determines the level of the IgM antibodies in the blood, The disease is often…
sodium blood test
Blood Sodium Test A blood sodium test measures the amount of sodium (an important electrolyte) in your body. It is also…
leptospira Igm test
Leptospira-IgM Test A Leptospira-IgM test is a blood test which is carried out to detect anti-Leptospira IgM antibody. Leptospirosis is…
iron deficiency profile
Iron Deficiency Profile An iron deficiency profile is a battery of blood tests which are performed in order to determine the…
Diabetes blood test
Diabetic Profile The diabetic profile is a set of tests used for testing and monitoring the various kinds of Diabetes…
Hymenoplasty
Hymenoplasty Read on to find out all about hymenoplasty, the procedure, post-surgery care, the risks, and the benefits.
Dragon Fruit – Blessing from Nature’s Basket Dragon fruit is packed with nutrients but low on calories. It is the dream food that can help…
How can berberine supplements help you live longer and healthier? Berberine is a turmeric look-alike herbal extract that is credited with numerous health benefits ranging from diabetes cure…
Urologist: When should you visit one and why? A urologist can treat not only genitourinary problems of both men and women but also can treat various…
The Cabbage Soup Diet: The healthiest way to instant weight loss Cabbage soup diet rapid weight loss diet for those who want to shed those extra pounds in less…
Quinine: How gin and tonic came to be known as a potent health elixir The discovery of quinine-containing tree bark is sometimes considered the most serendipitous medical discovery of the 17th century.
Inhale oxygen, exhale worries: The top breathing exercises and how to perform them Performing the breathing exercise is like becoming mindful of how you breathe.  Here is a list of breathing…
GGt test
GGT – Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase Test GGT or gammaglutamyl transferase test is a liver function test that is used to detect the extent of…
anoscopy
Anoscopy Anoscopy is an invasive diagnostic procedure where a small device known as anoscope will be inserted in the…
malarial antigen test
Malaria Antigen Test A malaria antigen test is a rapid diagnostic test (RDT) that can detect malarial antigens (proteins) in your…
sugar toxic health
Sugar: 7 new shocking truths revealed about the sweet poison Can drinking soda bring you closer to death? Is sugar slowly poisoning you and your family? You would…
avocado benefits
Avocado: 15 reasons why this fruit should be a staple in your diet Did you know that the word avocado literally means "testicles". Don't get grossed out as this power-packed fruit…
Cayenne: The remarkable benefits of these red hot chili peppers These may make you rush for a glass of water, but cayenne pepper is actually a healthy additive…
Kava: Is it the healthy substitute for alcohol you have been waiting for? Native to the beautiful South Pacific islands, Kava is a famous beverage rooted in the local culture. It…
How seitan proved to be a blessing in disguise for vegans worldwide Can only meat-eaters enjoy delicious juicy steaks and burgers? With seitan, the best meat substitute available today,even vegans…
How to correctly perform nasal irrigation using a Neti Pot? Neti pot has been a part of Ayurveda since centuries. This ancient tool is extremely effective in treating…
What is the right way to take a pregnancy test? A pregnancy test is undertaken to determine if you have conceived. A home pregnancy test is the most…
Appendix pain: Recent findings on this not-so vestigial organ The exact function of the appendix is still not clear. Some consider it as an organ that once…
glucose-tolerance
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test – GTT Glucose tolerance test (or Oral GTT) is used to detect the onset of diabetes or prediabetes conditions. It…
LFT-test
Liver Function Test – LFT LFT or Liver Function Test is a blood test used to determine the levels of hepatic enzymes which…
ASTtest-liver
AST- Aspartate Aminotransferase Test AST test is a blood test that is used to measure the level of a particular liver enzyme…
ANTIPHOSPHOLIPIDANTIBODY(APL)_IgG
Antiphospholipid (APL) antibody-IgG The Antiphospholipid Antibody testing is a blood test used to determine an autoimmune disorder called Antiphospholipid syndrome linked…
Strep throat pain
Anti-Streptolysin-O Test The ASO or Anti-Streptolysin-O is a blood test designed to check for the presence of streptococcus bacterial infection…
vdrl test syphilis
VDRL Test The VDRL test is a blood test that is used to diagnose sexually transmitted or venereal diseases, primarily…
Period sanitary napkin-menstruaion-blood-colors
Period blood – what it says about your health Your period blood color and consistency indicate what is happening in your body. Is your blood bright red…
Hepatitis A virus infected liver
Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) Total Blood test to look for IgM antibodies to know if you are infected with Hepatitis A virus (HAV),…
hidden benefits walking
9 benefits of walking we bet you didn’t know! Did you know walking can be the miracle pill for eternal youth? Everyone knows walking is good for…
liver detox facts
7 liver detox facts and why ignoring these could kill you! Are you taking care of this organ that handles over 500 different vital functions in your body? Your…
L-theanine attention
L-Theanine: Better sleep, higher focus, and many other benefits Did you know that L-theanine found in green tea can make you sleep better and be focused at…
aspartame or sugar
Aspartame – Hidden truths about this storm in a teacup Aspartame, the artificial sweetener, has gone under the scanner on several occasions for allegedly doing more harm than…
High Fiber Diet – Fire up your fiber intake for these health benefits! Regular bowels, healthy detox, higher immunity, and guaranteed weight loss - a high fiber diet can bring all…
Agave nectar: The bitter truth about this sweetener revealed Agave nectar is considered to be sweeter than the normal table sugar and even contains higher amounts of…
gout diet purines
Gout Diet : Get relief from painful joints by eating these foods Are you a victim of this painful condition? Are medications providing only short relief? Find a list of…
DHEA wrinkles
DHEA: Now get unbelievable age defiance with this wonder hormone! DHEA is known popularly as the age-defying hormone. This supplement is widely used to slow down aging and…
Oil of Oregano: The one-stop essential oil you’ve been looking for Are you plagued by a weak immune system? High body inflammation accompanied by pain and infections? Why not…
Love tea, hate tannins? Rooibos tea is just what you need The market is brimming with a multitude of herbal teas. But what makes rooibos tea (or red bush)…
Pescatarian Diet 101: What are the inherent health advantages of this diet? People opt to become a pescatarian in order to enrich their bodies with the essential health benefits that…
Mood swings
The real reasons for your mood swings and how to overcome them Are you prone to heated moods frequently? Do you also feel bouts of depressive feeling creeping up on…
shakeology woman
Meal replacement or protein drink? Learn all about Shakeology and its claims Shakeology from Beachbody claims to be the most suitable shake that can aid in weight loss, regulate blood…
hemoglobin variant analysis
Hemoglobin Variant Analysis Hemoglobin variant analysis is a blood test that is used to detect the presence of hemoglobin variants which…
cystatin C
Cystatin C Test Cystatin C is a specific single-chain protein that is found in body fluids and is a biomarker for…
piles fissure fistula
Allopathy vs homeopathy vs ayurveda treatment for piles, fissures, and fistula Read to know the best form of treatment among allopathy, homeopathy,or ayurveda for piles, fissures, and fistula

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