When Should You Be Worried About Itchy Skin? Read To Find Out

Irritation and uncontrollable sensation could actually make you scratch your body a lot which might worsen an underlying condition. Itchy skin is related to a lot of skin problems including dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, hives, ringworm, shingles and other types of skin allergies. Do not ignore itching for an insect bite at all times. In this article, we will explain to you when itching can become a cause of concern for you, and what are the ways to prevent it. 

When should you be concerned about itchy skin?

We spoke to Dr. Shubhrat Goswami, Consultant - Department of Dermatology, BNK Hospital, Bangalore. He said that itchy skin is also known as pruritus, this could usually result in irritation and uncomfortable sensation on the skin that makes you scratch yourself. The possible causes of itching could include dryness, infection, skin disease, neuropathic itch, etc. 

Itching that goes away after applying a moisturizer or dusting powder is usual, but you should be concerned if it is causing redness, acne, blackness or a similar problem. Doctor has advised not to scratch your skin, rather consult a dermat if it continues for 2 days or more. 

Skin Diseases to be Worried About

Itching and irritation on the skin could cause a number of severe complications if not treated at the right time. Doctor Shubhrat explains about 4 common conditions that might be causing an itching sensation on your body. 

1. Dermatitis

Skin Irritation  is usually medically treated under dermatitis. It has many forms and can be caused because of multiple factors. Most common  symptoms  include-

• Dry skin
• Itchy skin
• Rashes
• Skin blisters
• Crust on skin
• Flaky skin

Dermatitis is not contagious, and can be treated easily by applying medicated moisturizers. These control symptoms and reduce inflammation in the skin.

Also Read- Debunking Top 5 Myths About Atopic Dermatitis

2. Eczema

Chronic skin disorder that makes skin itchy and scaly. In this condition rashes pop out from the skin, usually in legs or arms. Eczema could cause long-lasting effects on your skin such as patches, discoloration of skin, etc. This skin disorder could affect daily lifestyle and make general activities hard to perform. 

3. Psoriasis

Itchiness could also be a symptom of psoriasis. This is an autoimmune disorder that could lead to skin discoloration and irritation in the form of plaques. Unfortunately, this disorder does not have any medical cure. However, your dermatologist can suggest some tips and remedies to lower the symptoms of psoriasis. 

Also Read- Psoriasis and Male Fertility: What Is The Link, Risks and Complications

4. Hives on skin

Hives are extremely itchy, raised and discolored like structures on the skin. This could look very ugly and usually symptoms are evident in a few days of infection. Hives are caused due to allergic reactions on the skin. Sometimes, these raised welts can sting or hurt when you walk. You must consult a doctor before taking any medication because the allergic reactions are often the result of irritants caused by environmental or drug components. Symptoms of hives include-

• Severe itching in skin
• Painful swelling on eyelids, lips or inside throat
• Welts that vary in size
• Red or coloured welts that could appear anywhere on the skin

Welts: They are raised bumps on the skin. It causes redness and swelling texture on the skin. It does not cause any severities in the majority of cases. 

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