Table of Contents
- Itch facts
- What is an itch?
- What are associated symptoms and signs of itching (pruritus)?
- What causes itching?
- What causes itching? (Continued)
- How do health care professionals diagnose itching?
- What types of health care specialists treat itching?
- Should people scratch the itch?
- What are topical itch treatments? Are there any home remedies for itching?
- What are topical itch treatments? Are there any home remedies for itching? (Continued)
- What are oral medications that treat itch?
- Is it possible to prevent itching?
- When should the doctor be consulted for itching (pruritus)?
- What are possible complications of itching?
- What is the prognosis (outlook) for itching?
Quick GuideRosacea, Acne, Shingles: Common Adult Skin Diseases
Is it possible to prevent itching?
Itching can be prevented only to the extent that the underlying cause(s) of the itching sensation can be prevented. For example, careful use of sunscreen products can prevent the itching associated with sunburn. Keeping well hydrated and using moisturizers can prevent the itch associated with dry skin. It is also possible to take preventive measures to avoid contagious conditions like sexually transmitted diseases, or tick or bug bites, or lice infestations that may be the sources of itching. Itching associated with serious conditions like skin cancers and liver or kidney disease cannot typically be prevented.
Butler, David F. "Pruritus and Systemic Disease." Medscape.com. Mar. 8, 2016. <http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1098029-overview>.
Mann, Julianne. "Brachioradial Pruritus." Medscape.com. Aug. 12, 2016. <http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1355312-overview>.
United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Cercarial Dermatitis." Jan. 10, 2012.<http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/swimmersitch/faqs.html>.
United States. National Cancer Institute. "Pruritus." June 15, 2016. <http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/supportivecare/pruritus/Patient/page1>.
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Patient Comments
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