This can be pretty uncomfortable, this irritating feeling that makes you go crazy because of the itching. Some doctors may refer to it as Pruritus.
The itchy skin could be caused by dry skin, it is normal for older people because their skin gets drier with the aging. The skin could appear to be red, rough or just normal (bumpy sometimes), but when you’re scratching it too much, it could make the area of this skin thicker and even get infected. The itchy skin could be on certain small areas, it could be a leg, arm, or even bigger portions of your body. Itchy skin could occur without changes on the skin itself, or it could be associated with :
- Dry skin
- Leathery skin
- Redness
The reason behind itchy skin could be an underlying illness :
- Liver illness;
- Kidney failure;
- Iron deficiency;
- Thyroid problems;
Causes of itchy skin could include :
- Internal diseases;
Some reasons could be liver illnesses, thyroid problems, kidney failures, and iron deficiency problems.
- Nerve Disorders;
MS and diabetes could cause itchy skin too.
- Psychiatric diseases;
Anxiety, OCD and depression are proven to be causing severe itchy skin.
- Pregnancy;
Some women experience itchy skin during their pregnancy period.
It is a good idea to see a doctor if you have any of the symptoms of itchy skin. There are signs which tell you when you should see a doctor, in that case.
These five sings are enough for you to seek a professional help for your itchy skin :
- If it lasts for more than two weeks;
- Affects the whole body;
- It distracts you from your routines and even prevents you from sleeping well;
- Itâs severe and constant;
- Gets worse as the days pass;
The ideal would be if you visit a dermatologist as soon as these problems become severe and persistent, the amount of three months despite treatment is a sign the issue is serious and you should consider an appointment for the doctor.
Summary
Many reasons could cause itchy skin, but in every case, you should visit your doctor as soon as it gets more severe and serious (2 weeks period for example) and if it gets worse. There are many illnesses and everyday life things that could lead to itchy skin, but it is important to note that in the most serious cases, they are – Liver illnesses, Kidney failures, Iron deficiency, and Thyroid problems. With that being said, an intervention of a doctor is mandatory.