Causes of body itching in humans

Reasons why the whole body itches in different places. What to do if your skin constantly itches in different places in turn. How to treat severe itching in different parts of the body.

Sometimes the desire to scratch does not present any problem if it is not obsessive and systematic. When the body itches in different places, such a desire is classified by dermatologists as itching: it is imperative to establish the reasons for its occurrence, and often requires medical intervention. Almost any person can independently find out why his body itches or turn to a doctor to get rid of this problem.

Sometimes a sensation of itching in different parts of the body accompanies a malfunction of the internal organs. And generalized itching (the whole body itches) is a symptom of a huge number of pathologies. In any case, the cause of scabies can only be determined by a highly qualified specialist.

Etiological factors

The mechanism of itching is simple. It is similar to a pain impulse that travels along nerve endings. A person itches, irritating skin receptors, thus suppressing itching.

Often itching is a signal that indicates that a person has a disease. In itself, it is not a pathology and is caused by the presence of nerve endings on the skin that react to various external influences. For example, on street temperature, hand touch, chemicals. When the human body comes into contact with an allergen, it releases histamine into the tissue, which causes scabies.

The body also produces substances that irritate the skin nerves, such as bile acids and bilirubin. To find out the cause of the itching, you need to take tests: OAC, OAM. If there is a suspicion that a person has an allergy, modern laboratories provide their services to determine the cause of this disease. This could be insect bites, a reaction to street dust, food, cleaning chemicals, or medications. Sometimes urticaria appears, which disappears after about a day.

If the body itches very much, then the reasons may be:

1. Chronic renal failure. In this case, itching indicates a severe course of the disease.
2. Oncology. Cancer at an early stage usually does not manifest itself in any way. Its only symptom may be itching caused by intoxication of the body.
3. Cholestasis. It is a condition when the outflow of bile is disrupted; this usually occurs with cholelithiasis, cirrhosis of the liver, or cholecystitis. This is a very common cause of itching without visible external manifestations. With such ailments, the body itches in different places due to excessive amounts of fatty acids in the body.
4. Metabolic disease. The body itches for the following reasons: diabetes, thyroid disease, hypovitaminosis, gout.
5. Parasites. For example, ascariasis, lamblia.
6. Excessive dryness of the skin. Sometimes associated with age-related changes in the body.
7. Impaired blood circulation. It happens, for example, with varicose veins.

If the body itches in different places, the reasons may be different. And if the body itches, but there are no rashes, then this usually indicates pathologies of the internal organs. To get rid of scabies, it is necessary to treat the underlying disease. You cannot do this on your own; you must visit a doctor.

Itching without rash

This type of scabies all over the body occurs in the following cases:

1. liver diseases;
2. oncology;
3. pathologies of the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract;
4. diabetes;
5. while taking medications;
6. presence of parasites;
7. mental disorders;
8. blood diseases.

A very interesting case is psychogenic itching. Appears in people over 40 years of age, more often in women than in men. In this case, itching is a symptom of stress. People who have diseased kidneys experience itching after a hemodialysis procedure. In diabetes, scabies is generalized, which is associated with decreased sensitivity.

Some medications cause scabies, which is a side effect of taking them. And with dry skin, itching usually bothers people over 50 years of age. This is the so-called senile itch. If scabies has spread over the entire body, it may be a symptom of cirrhosis of the liver or lymphoma.

Itching with rashes

The causes of this itching can be various diseases and allergies. The rash is expressed by the following elements: blisters, nodules, bubbles, ulcers, etc. They can be located in different places of the body and are of the following types:

1. the so-called goose rash;
2. light-colored bubbles scattered throughout the body;
3. dark or red spots that disappear when pressed with a finger;
4. red blisters that are very itchy;
5. ulcers, nodules;
6. herpetic rash.

The cause of the rash can be fungi, viruses, bacteria, etc. It is often of non-infectious origin and appears with allergies or acne. One way or another, for any itching that spreads throughout the body, you need to go to a medical facility and undergo an examination.

Itching with burning

Itching all over the body, accompanied by a burning sensation, usually represents the body's reaction to mechanical stimuli. For example, it may appear after shaving body hair, when using wax or depilatory. Also, itching with burning can occur with poorly healing skin inflammations in diabetes, because this disease changes the pH of the tissues.

Another reason is pathology of the veins in the legs. In this case, the skin swells greatly and becomes slightly bluish, but there are no rashes on it. The combination of the above symptoms appears in a person with various types of skin rashes. Itching along with burning may also indicate the presence of eczema, urticaria and other dermatitis.

How to get rid of scabies

Once the causes of scabies are clarified, you can get rid of it either with the help of a doctor or on your own. The first thing you need to do is relieve the itching sensation. A cool shower, cold lotions and ice treatment on itchy skin areas will help with this. It is allowed to use ointments and creams containing menthol if it does not cause an allergic reaction. But you can’t wash with hot water, because the skin’s sensitivity increases when heated. Having found out the cause of scabies, you can try to get rid of it. Need to change:

1. perfume, cosmetics, do not wear synthetic clothing;
2. daily diet, excluding dishes that provoke an allergic reaction.

Dry skin should be constantly smeared with a nourishing cream (regular children's cream will do). The area where the insect has bitten can be treated with alcohol tincture.

When the causes of itching are psychological in nature, chamomile tea, soothing compounds, and cool baths help well. If scabies does not go away after taking independent measures, and even becomes stronger and spreads throughout the body, then you should immediately contact a specialist.

Treatment of the disease

First of all, you need to be examined by a doctor to find out the exact cause of the itching, because each of them may require a different approach to treatment. Itching caused by allergies is treated according to the following scheme:

1. First of all, you need to stop all contact with the irritant.
2. Prescribing antihistamines that reduce the body's release of histamine, which causes body itching.
3. Taking sedatives that reduce nerve stimulation.
4. Taking sorbents that remove toxins from the intestines. The latter sometimes cause allergies.
5. Prescription of glucocorticoids that suppress the immune system. The latter is responsible for allergic reactions of the body.

If the doctor during diagnosis finds pathologies of the kidneys, liver, and gastrointestinal tract, the patient is hospitalized.

Disease prevention

Some useful preventive measures:

1. it is necessary to regularly visit the clinic and undergo examinations, especially if any symptoms are observed that indicate the occurrence of various diseases;
2. maintaining a properly balanced sleep and rest schedule, as well as proper alternation of work and rest;
3. It is important to avoid situations that can provoke stress;
4. maintaining a proper diet;
5. timely treatment of diseases, if any.

When a person constantly itches his body in different places (it is almost impossible to determine the cause on his own), he should consult a doctor. But even doctors cannot always determine the cause of itching based on the patient’s complaints and external examination of the body.

You need to realize that if a person follows the rules of hygiene, then his body will not itch just like that. Therefore, you should not waste time, hoping that the itching will go away on its own. It’s better to get tested right away and find out what’s causing it and get rid of it. You need to fight not the consequence of the problem, but its “root”.

Itching is not a disease, but only a symptom. According to doctors, the body cannot itch without a reason. Most often, the reason that the body itches is some kind of disease, even if peeling, dryness and itching go away for no apparent reason.

It is necessary to understand the reasons before starting treatment. Itching is dangerous because the patient can scratch the skin, which will lead to inflammation, infection and dehydration.

Skin diseases

The most common cause of itching is skin diseases. An inflammatory process appears, which is accompanied by itching.

Most often occurs due to hereditary predisposition. Stress, anxiety and poor living conditions are also prerequisites for the development of dermatitis.

Eczema

An inflammatory skin disease that causes blistering and burning. Also characterized by redness and itching. When scratching the blisters, erosions appear that turn into crusts.

Most often appears on the hands and face. It occurs in a chronic form and is accompanied by respiratory tract infections, as well as metabolic disorders.

Dermatophytosis

The answer to the question of why the body itches for no apparent reason may be the disease dermatophytosis. It is caused by fungi that live in the soil, the body of animals and humans.

Fungi penetrate into the upper layers of the skin, decompose proteins and feed on decay products. Dermatophytosis can occur on the scalp or body, on smooth skin, and on the nails.

Lichen

A skin disease that is caused by fungi or viruses. Most often develops after direct contact with an infected person or animal. There are several varieties: pink, cutting, weeping, girdling.

Most often appears on the scalp. The affected area becomes bright red, flaky and itchy. The main factor in contracting lichen is a weakened immune system.

Pediculosis or human lice infestation

The main factor of infection is unsanitary living conditions. Lice can be contracted in villages and villages, from people without a fixed place of residence.

Pediculosis is an ancient disease that most often occurs as an epidemic. You can become infected with it in a military barracks, children's camp, or school.

Blood-sucking parasites cause a lot of trouble. Their bites cause severe itching, but the main danger is that they carry typhus. Lice live on the scalp or pubic area.

Important point! To avoid becoming infected with lice, do not use other people's combs and do not give yours to anyone. Also be careful about the cleanliness of your pillows, and try not to sleep on a shared bed.

Note! You can only get lice from other people. Other types of lice live on the body of animals, which are not dangerous to humans.

Psoriasis

A type of scaly lichen. Inflammation is caused by the body's immune cells. The disease is characterized by red, dry spots that are covered with a white coating.

Most often they appear on the bends of the elbows, on the head, and lower back. They can also affect other parts of the body, as well as the mucous membrane of the genital organs. Factors that cause psoriasis: heredity, infections, HIV, certain medications.

Scabies

A disease caused by parasites. Scabies mites feed on the upper layers of human skin. The first sign of the disease is blisters in the interdigital folds. They itch a lot, the itching gets worse in the evenings.

Scabies can be contracted from contact with a sick person, through bed, clothing, and household items. In this case, the incubation period of the disease can last up to 4 weeks.

Hives

An allergic disease characterized by a red rash. The patient may scratch it vigorously, which only aggravates the disease. Often accompanied by Quincke's edema.

Causes may include food allergens, digestive disorders, insect bites, and hypothermia. With disorders of the kidneys, liver or intestines, urticaria takes a chronic form.

Xerosis

Abnormal dry skin. This is a consequence of severe itching or infectious diseases. The skin becomes rough, peels, itches, and turns red.

Xerosis can be a symptom of other disorders: psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema, seborrhea.

In addition, xerosis is caused by cirrhosis of the liver, hepatitis, and renal failure.

It may be caused by a cancerous tumor. When xerosis appears, it is especially important to examine the internal organs.

Systemic diseases

Systemic diseases are diseases of internal organs that may be accompanied by itchy skin. To accurately diagnose a particular disease, listen to other symptoms and consult a doctor.

Why the body itches for no apparent reason - the answer may lie in diseases of the internal organs.

Most often, this is not the only symptom and the disease can be diagnosed by other symptoms. But it is best to immediately consult a doctor who will conduct an examination and make the correct diagnosis.

Other common causes of itching for no apparent reason

Itchy skin is not always caused by serious illnesses. This may be a consequence of stress, age-related changes in the body, or a reaction to allergens and medications.

Infection with immunodeficiency virus

HIV does not manifest itself in the body for a long time, and the infected person may not be aware of the disease. But he has signs that indicate immunodeficiency. Skin signs are:

Fungal and viral diseases are accompanied by itching. Most often, herpes affects the mucous membranes, which are very itchy at the initial stage of the disease. Eczema can occur on the hands and face.

Mental disorders: psychogenic itching

Our body is sensitive to stress and anxiety. It often responds with redness in certain areas, itching, and chest pain. If you are sure that you are healthy and there can be no other reason for the itching, try to be less nervous and the itching will go away.

Allergic skin itching in adults and children

Food allergens cause irritation of the intestinal walls, which immediately affects the skin. Rashes and itching appear. Allergies to cosmetics, shampoos, soaps, and cleaning products may also occur. It is recommended to find the cause and not come into contact with this reagent.

Seasonal itching

For no apparent reason, the body may itch in the fall and spring in patients with vegetative-vascular dystonia. Why this happens cannot be said with certainty. Most likely, this is due to a lack of vitamins in the diet and weather changes.

Dehydration

If your body itches, but there is no visible reason for it, it may be a consequence of dehydration. It is difficult to say why this condition occurs. The reason may be insufficient fluid intake or a large loss of fluid if you were in extreme conditions.

Senile or senile itching

In old age, the body undergoes many changes: metabolism changes, the skin becomes thin and dry, the functioning of the sebaceous glands is disrupted, and cell renewal slows down.

This leads to unpleasant consequences: irritation, peeling, and itching. The skin of the face most often suffers, as it is thinner and more sensitive.

Note! Over many years of life, the body accumulates stress, allergens, and diseases, which can make the body itch. Even if it seems to you that there are no visible reasons, this is not so. That is why you need to take care of your physical and mental health from a young age.

Parasite infestation

Itchy skin can be caused by parasites such as scabies mites and demodex mites. The parasite does not necessarily have to live under the skin. Even worms and roundworms can cause skin rashes and itching.

Most often, antibacterial agents and antipruritic ointments are prescribed to get rid of them. Remember that self-medication with ointments alone will not bring results; you need to identify the cause and treat it.

Menopause

During menopause, women's hormonal levels change, which affects the condition of the entire body. In addition to changes in the sexual sphere, you will feel a change in the condition of your skin and hair. This may include the body itching for no apparent reason.

Why you shouldn't be afraid of it: As soon as the hormones return to normal, the itching will go away. To relieve unpleasant symptoms, use moisturizing creams.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy

Pregnant women often have itchy breasts and stomach. These are normal phenomena, as the body is undergoing restructuring. Other parts of the body may also itch.

This should be treated carefully, as itching indicates allergies or diseases of the internal organs. See your doctor to determine the cause of the itching.

Itching of the body as a result of taking medications

If you are being treated with pills or folk remedies, itchy skin may be a side effect. Read the instructions before diagnosing yourself differently. It is best to replace the medicine that makes your body itchy with a similar one.

Itchy skin can be caused by skin diseases, diseases of internal organs and some other reasons. If you have other symptoms besides itching, consult your doctor.

If there are no apparent reasons, eliminate stress and anxiety from your life, and the itching will go away.

Why the body itches for no apparent reason:

Causes of skin itching:

One of the most common reasons why people consult a dermatologist is itching. At the same time, the person who applied notes that the skin itches all over the body without manifestations. In addition, the patient often cannot independently explain the origin of the unpleasant sensation. In this case, the doctor begins to find out the details: whether some specific places are scratched or the itching covers the whole body, what is its severity, whether it occurs from time to time or worries constantly, at what intervals of the day it begins to bother. The symptoms that accompany the discomfort are also of utmost importance.

Why does the body itch in different places?

Allergies are the first thing doctors associate with itching. A reaction can occur after taking a medicine, applying a cosmetic product, contact with household chemicals, and even due to increased nervous tension. Itching of the body, which occurs in different places, is not an isolated symptom. Also of concern:

1. rash of various types;
2. elevated temperature;
3. discharge from the eyes and nose.

Itching is detected in a number of other systemic diseases. The most common of them are:

1. Liver pathologies. One of the ailments, cirrhosis of the liver, in the initial stages does not manifest itself in a person with anything other than the desire to scratch the skin in one place or another. A sick person feels itching all over the body for no apparent reason, which intensifies as the disease progresses.
2. Diabetes. Most patients suffering from the disease note that the first signal of the onset of the disease was itching. Tiny blood vessels affected by the disease cease to fully nourish the skin cells, the epidermis becomes dehydrated and peels off. As a result, a person complains that his body is constantly itching in different places.
3. Kidney failure. This condition develops as a result of the progression of certain kidney diseases and is accompanied by a number of characteristic symptoms that appear much earlier than those described. Often, skin itching occurs without external manifestations when undergoing a type of treatment such as hemodialysis.
4. Multiple sclerosis. Along with a whole list of unremarkable early warning signs of the disease, itching appears. Sick people do not attach much importance to these signs, because they go away on their own. Often their appearance is associated not with illness, but with some situation: lying for a long time, serving time, etc.
5. Oncological diseases. Some types of cancer are itchy. People with malignant tumors localized in the genitourinary system complain that the whole body itches for no apparent reason. No rash or other symptoms are observed. Particularly intense irritation occurs if colon or pancreatic cancer is diagnosed.
   

In what cases is it necessary to see a doctor?

You cannot ignore the signals sent by your body. If your body itches in different places, you need to look for the reasons together with your doctor and do not wait for the sensation to disappear on its own. A visit to a specialist should be scheduled for the near future if any symptom or several signs from the list are discovered along with the itching:

1. there is depression of the general condition (fever, nausea, weakness);
2. the skin and sclera of the eyes turned yellow;
3. urination has become rare or stopped completely;
4. limbs and body swell;
5. arms and legs sometimes seem to “go numb”, “become “wobbly”, and a tingling sensation appears;
6. vision has deteriorated;
7. at night there is a feeling of heat, an unusual amount of sweat is released.

Even if it seems that the skin is itching for no apparent reason, and after a while the itching completely disappears, this is not a reason to postpone a visit to the doctor. Sometimes the disease manifests itself this way: some symptoms fade away, but others appear, and the disease moves to a new stage. It is also important to listen to your own condition and ask yourself questions: what hurts, are there any changes, are there any relatives in the direct line who suffered from cancer? Even a very attentive doctor who carefully collects anamnesis may miss any important sign signaling the onset of the disease, so it is important to independently analyze the situation.

The body itches in different places: how to eliminate itching

Laboratory examination methods help determine the diagnosis when itching is not due to allergies or any dermatological disease. Depending on the history collected and the suspicions that arise in this regard, the doctor may suggest donating blood for the following tests:

1. general (ESR, leukocytes);
2. bilirubin;
3. biochemistry.

You may also need to provide urine. Tests can help identify problems with the kidneys: general and according to the Reberg-Tareev method. Instrumental diagnostic methods will reveal the picture of a hidden disease even more clearly. As a rule, an ultrasound of the organs and possibly a biopsy are prescribed. As a result, it will be clear: everything itches for no reason, or there is a threat to health.

Pharmacy products

Even if the cause of the itching is an allergy, as the simplest of the above, a person without medical knowledge will not be able to cope with the problem on his own. In this situation, the doctor will determine the allergen using tests and prescribe treatment.

1. Allergy symptoms are eliminated with antihistamines, including: Suprastin, Loratadine, Zyrtec. The same drugs are necessary to relieve itching that occurs due to renal failure.

Regular use of hormonal drugs, especially if they are not prescribed by a doctor, but chosen independently, is unacceptable.

1. Sedatives will help relieve excessive nervousness, suspiciousness and thus help reduce the severity of unpleasant sensations. In the absence of contraindications, doctors, as a rule, prescribe: valerian, motherwort, aminazine.

People's Councils

In the intervals between courses of treatment for the disease that caused itching, you can use the remedies that have always been used by the people. Any herbalist knows the best plant for dermatological diseases and, in particular, for scratching - a string. Dried leaves, flowers and stems are crushed and brewed as tea. Allow to brew, cover with a lid, and drink warm.
Baths with the addition of various medicinal plants will help relieve nervous tension, which often in itself provokes itching, and soothe irritated skin:

1. Buy ready-made lavender extract at the pharmacy and add 1-2 tbsp to the water before bathing.
2. Prepare a decoction of chamomile and celandine in a 1:1 ratio in a water bath. To prevent the healing properties of plants from disappearing, use immediately after preparation.
3. Nettle, mint, pine needles - all of the above are useful to brew and use for washing the body.

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