Symptoms

Itching is due to allergies, but scratching an allergic itch can make a rash or hives. It is a peculiar tingling or uneasy irritation of the skin that causes a desire to scratch the affected region.

Causes

There are many causes of itching, which is from the simple to the complex. Other common causes of itches are insect bites and stings, Dry skin also causes itch, it happens in winter when cold breeze outside and heated air inside causes low humidity, makes the skin more dry. Sometimes skin loses moisture and may crack and peel,or become inflammed and irritated. Even bathing with harsh soaps causes itch.

When contact with wool clothing or irritants, such as cosmetics or solvents causes itching. Dry skin which is very common in old people, can cause severe, itching. Dry skin also can result from cold weather or prolonged exposure to water.

Diagnosis

Doctors try to diagnose the cause of itching to eliminate it. Often, the cause is obvious, such as an insect bite or sometimes poison ivy. Itching which lasts longer than a few days or that comes and goes most often without an obvious cause usually requires testing. If an allergy is suspected, then certain skin tests may be performed

Treatment

If Itching may be of any cause, bathing should be kept short and preferably in cool or lukewarm water with no harsh soap. The skin should be patted dry gently with smooth towel rather than rubbed vigorously. Many people with itching apply moisturizing cream right after bathing. The moisturizer should be without smell and colorless, because it may irritate the skin and even cause itching. Fingernails should be kept short to minimize abrasions from scratching. Coating the affected area with soothing compounds, such as, camphor, eucalyptus, or calamine, also can help.