Body Itching: 6 Causes and Remedies
Learn the six most common causes of body itching and how you can find relief.
1. Dry Skin>
2. Eczema>
3. Allergies>
4. Other Skin Conditions>
5. Dehydration>
6. Internal Diseases>
Home Remedies>
Body itching, also known as pruritus, is frustrating. You toss and turn and scratch and scratch (even when you’re not supposed to). Moreover, it could also be a symptom of a serious, underlying issue. The first step to finding relief is to discover the cause. Unfortunately, triggers are a dime a dozen. To narrow things down, here are six causes of itchy skin – plus remedies that can alleviate the situation.
1. Dry Skin
Check your skin for any bright red bumps or sudden changes in texture. Nothing? Then dry skin could be the culprit. Your face and body itching is a consequence of parched skin, which, in turn, could be caused by weather changes, products, or your environment. Dry skin also becomes more common as you get older.
A good moisturizer can help solve this issue. If you can't be bothered to lotion up, try a bar that can do it all. Dove Men+Care Clean Comfort Body + Face Bar helps maintain hydration levels thanks to its ¼ moisturizing cream.
2. Eczema
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, could be the reason behind your body itching. In this case, your skin barrier is compromised, allowing irritants and allergens to enter the surface freely and making it more prone to irritation and inflammation. Those with this condition must always keep their skin moisturized and protected because they’re also more at risk for infection.
3. Allergies
Contact with allergens can also spur itchy skin. Pet hair, food, and certain chemicals and substances in products can prompt allergic reactions. If you suspect an allergy, consult a specialist to pin down your triggers. Use over-the-counter medication or prescription creams if you break out in a rash after exposure.
4. Other Skin Conditions
There’s a long list of skin problems that might trigger your intense itching. Some of these include chicken pox, folliculitis, hand-foot-and-mouth disease, hives, psoriasis, neurodermatitis, and ringworm. A dermatologist would be able to diagnose your specific condition so that you can receive proper treatment.
Many of these situations are caused by poor sanitation and hygiene. Remember to keep your skin clean and dry always. Choose a soap like LIFEBUOY Antibacterial Soap Mild Care which has Activ Silver to give you 100% germ protection.
5. Dehydration
When your fluid intake is low, your body goes into a state of dehydration. Dehydration dries out your skin, which you know makes it itchy. Your skin will also appear dull and sunken, a look that probably won’t win you the attention of that new girl at work. You can remedy mild cases of dehydration by increasing your fluid intake and avoiding diuretics like caffeine and alcohol. More serious cases require medical attention.
6. Internal Diseases
Severe itching on the entire body could also be a symptom of graver matters, such as liver disease, kidney disease, anemia, diabetes, thyroid problems, and more. Consult your doctor if your itching is severe and unmanageable. You might be given diagnostic tests to target and treat your specific condition.
Home Remedies
Apart from creams and over-the-counter remedies, there are some home remedies you can do to help you find relief from body itching. Putting an ice pack over the affected area will provide comfort and cool your inflamed skin. Top it off with a good moisturizer or a petroleum jelly-based product. The best time to moisturize is after bathing when the skin is still damp.
If your itchiness worsens during bedtime, taking an antihistamine before you hit the hay will target the itchiness and work as a sedative to help you sleep through the night. Always consult your doctor before trying any new medication.
Wear loose-fitting clothing with cool, breathable fabrics so that moisture in your skin doesn’t get trapped. It will help keep your skin cool and avoid heat flushes that can trigger itching.
If all else fails and your condition persists, it might be time to seek medical help. Body itching is a nuisance that disrupts daily activities, sleep, and concentration, but you don’t have to let it take over your life. If you’re itching for a solution, the first thing you need to do is determine the root cause, so that you can get the right treatment.
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