Itchy Skin

Itchy skin (pruritus) is a common and irritating sensation that provokes scratching. It can be caused by various factors, including skin conditions, allergies, internal diseases, and irritants.

Itchy skin, also known as pruritus, is a common skin condition characterized by an uncomfortable, irritating sensation that makes you want to scratch. It can be localized to a specific area or generalized all over the body. The causes of itchy skin are varied and can include dry skin (xerosis), skin disorders (e.g., eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis), allergic reactions (e.g., to medications, foods, insect bites), internal diseases (e.g., liver disease, kidney disease, iron deficiency anemia, thyroid problems), nerve disorders (e.g., multiple sclerosis, shingles, diabetes), infestations (e.g., scabies, lice), irritants (e.g., chemicals, wool, soaps), and psychological conditions (e.g., stress, anxiety). The appearance of itchy skin can vary depending on the cause; it may be accompanied by redness, bumps, blisters, dryness, scaling, or no visible skin changes at all. Persistent scratching can lead to skin damage, infection, and thickening of the skin (lichenification).