Intense Itching

Intense itching of the skin or pruritus is an uncomfortable and disturbing sensation, in which you tend to scratch most of the time. In fact, one can experience itching in any part of the body, depending upon the root cause of the problem. While some people feel intense itching at night, others manifest intense itchy skin at any time of the day and night. Scratching and irritating skin constantly may lead to a thickened skin condition, which is commonly known as lichenification.

Intense Itching Causes

There are various reasons that may trigger an itchy skin condition. However, as already mentioned, the causes of acute itching vary from one individual to another, based on the underlying problem. Some of the probable causes of severe itching and skin rash are listed below:

• Skin Allergy - Allergic reaction in the skin after coming in contact with allergens or due to insect bites is a common cause of severe itching.
• Eczema - Eczema, a form of dermatitis, is a group of skin problems that causes itching, redness, dryness, inflammation and at times, bleeding. Damage of the skin tissues due to allergens is believed to be the main cause for eczema.
• Food Allergy - For some individuals, consuming certain food items result in skin itching symptoms. If you suspect that food allergy is the primary cause for intense itching, try to erase those from your diet and avoid them.
• Drug Allergy - Not only environment allergens and foods, drugs and medication are also responsible for exacerbating intense itching and skin rash. Talk to the concerned physician, if you have any previous history of skin allergies.
• Dry Weather - Dry air or a low humidity level is another primary reason for aggravating the itchiness. Generally such a condition is seasonal and resolves with proper skin care tips.
• Candidiasis - Yeast infection or candidiasis is again a common cause of intense itchy skin. Itching in localized areas of the body, including the mouth and vagina are signs of a yeast infection.
• Hemorrhoids - Intense itching in the anal region can be a sign of piles or hemorrhoids. Both internal and external piles cause severe itching symptoms.
• Medical Problems - Some of the diseases and disorders that manifest through excessive itching as a symptom are psoriasis, scabies, chickenpox, anemia, herpes, kidney disease, etc.

Localized itching such as, over the eyes and groin are due to allergies and infection. Many people have reported the discomfort of itching with no rash development or other visible signs on the skin such as reddening, bumps, lesions or fluid filled blisters.

How to Stop Intense Itching

Intense itching is manifested as a result of hypersensitivity of the immune system and elevated secretion of histamines. Effective remedies are cool showers and applying ice packs. You can use moisturizers to keep the skin moist and get relief from intense itchiness. Increased sweating may aggravate skin reactions and infection. Thus, it is advisable to keep the body cool and reduce perspiration, so as to get relief from intense skin itchiness. Also, wear loose, comfortable cotton clothes, while avoiding tight fitting outfits at the same time.

Topical ointments and oral medication that contain antihistamines are also a good solution for combating intense itchy skin. If the intense itching condition persists or remains the same for a prolonged period (more than 4-5 days), consult a dermatologist for a correct diagnosis. If necessary, the physician may recommend steroid creams and tablets in specific doses for treatment of this condition.