Chronic itchingItching that lasts longer than six weeks or recurs frequently.
Itching is sometimes accompanied by redness, rash, or dryness of the skin. However, some people may experience severe itching even though their skin appears completely normal.
1. What are the causes of itching?
There can be many reasons for itching:
Skin diseases
Eczema
Psoriasis
Hives (urticaria)
Dry skin
Allergic skin reactions
Scabies
Diseases related to internal organs
Kidney diseases
Liver diseases
Diabetes
Thyroid diseases
Iron deficiency and anemia
Some blood diseases
Other reasons
Side effects of some medications
Diseases related to the nerves
Stress and certain psychological problems
2. How can you tell if you have itching?
Patients may experience the following symptoms:
Itching in different parts of the body
Itching that worsens especially at night.
Sleep disruption
Redness and sores due to scratching.
Skin thickening and discoloration
3. How is the diagnosis made?
First, a skin examination is performed by a dermatologist.
Some blood tests may be ordered to investigate the cause of the itching:
Blood count
Iron and ferritin
Liver tests
Kidney tests
Thyroid tests
Blood sugar
Further tests may be conducted if necessary.
4. How is the treatment performed?
Treatment varies depending on the cause of the itching.
Regular moisturizing of the skin
Treating the underlying cause of the itching.
Antipruritic drugs for suitable patients.
Special creams for conditions like eczema.
Light therapy (phototherapy) when necessary.
In severe and resistant cases, specific systemic treatments are used.
5. What can be done to reduce itching?
Use moisturizer every day.
Avoid showering with very hot water.
Do not irritate your skin with harsh scrubs and loofahs.
Avoid perfumed soaps and shower gels.
Wear cotton and comfortable clothes.
Avoid scratching as much as possible.
Remember:Itching that lasts longer than six weeks should be investigated. This is because itching is not always caused by a skin disease; sometimes it can be the first sign of another health problem in the body.
With accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, it is possible to control chronic itching.
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