Itch (Itching): Check Your Symptoms and Signs

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Itching

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Itching Symptoms & Signs

Medical Author: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

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Symptoms & Signs

Itching is a symptom we have all experienced. Nevertheless, itching can be difficult for a person to describe to others. While itching symptoms vary, it typically leads to a peculiarly uncomfortable skin sensation. It may feel as if something is crawling on (or in) your skin. Itching can be diffuse (generalized all over the body) or localized -- all over or confined to a specific spot -- and there are many causes of diffuse and localized itching. Itching symptoms can be associated with

rash,
dry skin,
cracked skin,
flaky skin,
flaky scalp,
skin redness,
bumps on the skin,
blisters, or
spots on the skin.

Itching may be most noticeable at night (nocturnal), during the day, or both. When there are itching symptoms, there can be a leathery or scaly texture to the skin depending on the cause.

Itching can be caused by toxins on the skin (contact dermatitis, such as from poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, or grass oils), medications, liver disease, kidney disease, insect bites, hives (urticarial), rare forms of skin cancer (mycosis fungoides and T-cell lymphomas), infections (including chickenpox and fungal infections such as athlete's foot and jock itch), irritation from clothing, eczema, dermatitis herpetiformis, hemorrhoids, and many other conditions, or it can remain unexplained. Infectious causes of itching include sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), parasites (such as scabies, fleas, bedbugs, pinworms, and lice), and viral rashes.

Perhaps the best definition of itching is by the response it evokes -- it is a feeling that makes you want to scratch. Rash or redness can be present with itching from scratching or from the underlying condition. Medically, itching is known as pruritus. Something that is itchy is said to be pruritic.

Summary of Common Itching Symptoms by MedicineNet Staff
A review of our Patient Comments indicated that people with itching may also have coexisting symptoms. One patient reported a sensation of something crawling on her skin, while another mentioned a feeling of something moving in his blood. Sometimes cramping and blistering accompany the itching. A couple of patients noted that taking certain medications caused itching while other medications calmed their itching. Read on to learn more about itching symptoms in our Patient Comments.

Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 5/4/2017

Health concern on your mind? Visit the Symptom Checker.

REFERENCE:

Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.

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Is Scabies Contagious? Article
- What is scabies?
- Is scabies contagious?
- What is the contagious period for scabies?
- How will I know if I have scabies? What is the incubation period for scabies?
- How is scabies transmitted?
- How will I know if I am cured of scabies?
- When should I contact a medical caregiver about scabies?
Jock Itch Jock itch is an itchy red rash that appears in the groin area. The rash may be caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. People...learn more »
In This Article
Jock Itch Article
- Jock itch (tinea cruris) facts
- What is jock itch? What does jock itch look like?
- What causes jock itch?
- What are risk factors for jock itch?
- What are jock itch symptoms and signs?
- Does jock itch affect the entire body?
- Which health care professionals diagnose and treat jock itch?
- How do health care professionals diagnose jock itch?
- Is jock itch curable? Is jock itch contagious?
- What is the treatment for jock itch?
- What home remedy can I use for jock itch?
- What holistic jock itch treatments are available?
- How do I treat fungal jock itch?
- How do I treat bacterial jock itch?
- How is itching from jock itch treated?
- What is the best drug for jock itch?
- Why is my groin still discolored?
- What are possible complications of jock itch?
- When should someone call a doctor about jock itch?
- What is the prognosis with jock itch?
- Is it possible to prevent jock itch?
Kidney Failure Kidney failure can occur from an acute event or a chronic condition or disease. Prerenal kidney failure is caused by blood loss,...learn more »
$Latex Allergy$

Latex Allergy Latex allergy is a condition where the body reacts to latex, a natural product derived from the rubber tree. The reaction can...learn more »
In This Article
Latex Allergy Article
- Latex allergy facts
- What is latex and where is it found?
- What caused the rise in latex allergies?
- Who is at risk for developing a latex allergy?
- What are the symptoms and signs of the two forms of latex allergy?
- How do health-care professionals assess and diagnose a latex allergy?
- What is the treatment for a latex allergy?
- Latex-containing products (partial list)
Leukemia Leukemia is a type of cancer of the blood cells in which the growth and development of the blood cells are abnormal. Strictly...learn more »
In This Article
Leukemia Article
- Leukemia facts
- What is leukemia? What are the different types of leukemia?
- What causes leukemia? Is leukemia hereditary?
- What are leukemia risk factors?
- What are leukemia symptoms and signs?
- How do physicians diagnose leukemia?
- What is the treatment for leukemia?
- What are complications of leukemia?
- What is the prognosis of leukemia?
- How often does leukemia recur?
- Is it possible to prevent leukemia?
- What support groups are available for people with leukemia?
- What research is being done on leukemia?
Lichen Planus Lichen planus is a common skin disease that features small, itchy pink or purple spots on the arms or legs. the abnormal areas on...learn more »
In This Article
Lichen Planus Article
- Lichen planus facts
- What is lichen planus?
- What are causes and risk factors for lichen planus?
- How is the rash of lichen planus different from that of most other common rashes?
- What are lichen planus symptoms and signs?
- What does lichen planus look like?
- What physicians diagnose and treat lichen planus?
- How is lichen planus diagnosed?
- Are there home remedies for lichen planus?
- What is the treatment for lichen planus?
- What is the long-term prognosis of lichen planus??
- Is it possible to prevent lichen planus?
Lichen Sclerosus Lichen sclerosus is a skin disease that causes white spots to form on the skin, which later grow into large, thin, and crinkled...learn more »
In This Article
Lichen Sclerosus Article
- *Lichen sclerosus facts
- What is lichen sclerosus?
- Who gets lichen sclerosus?
- What are lichen sclerosus symptoms and signs?
- What causes lichen sclerosus?
- How is lichen sclerosus diagnosed?
- What is the treatment for lichen sclerosus?
- Can people with lichen sclerosus have sex?
- Is lichen sclerosus related to cancer?
- What kind of doctor treats lichen sclerosus?
- Where can people find more information about lichen sclerosus and other related conditions?
Liver Disease Liver disease can be cause by a variety of things including infection (hepatitis), diseases such as: gallstones, high...learn more »
Makeup Allergy Fragrances and preservatives in cosmetics may cause allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms include redness, itching, and...learn more »
In This Article
Makeup Allergy Article
- Makeup allergy facts
- What are cosmetics? What is in makeup?
- What are the risk factors for cosmetics reactions?
- Where do cosmetic skin reactions occur? What are symptoms and signs of a makeup allergy?
- What is on the cosmetic label?
- What health care specialists diagnose and treat makeup allergies?
- How do health care professionals diagnose makeup allergies?
- What else could the rash be aside from a cosmetic rash?
- What is the treatment for a makeup allergy?
- What is the prognosis of a cosmetics allergy? How long do they last?
- Is it possible to prevent a cosmetics allergy?
- What makeup brands are allergy tested? Which cosmetics brands are the safest?
Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is cancer of the lymphatic system, a vital part of the body's immune system. Symptoms and signs include...learn more »
In This Article
Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma Article
- Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) facts
- What is non-Hodgkin's lymphoma?
- What is the difference between non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and Hodgkin's disease (or Hodgkin's lymphoma)?
- What causes non-Hodgkin's lymphoma?
- What are non-Hodgkin's lymphoma risk factors?
- What are non-Hodgkin's lymphoma symptoms and signs?
- What kind of doctors treat non-Hodgkin's lymphoma?
- How do physicians diagnose non-Hodgkin's lymphoma?
- What are the types of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and how is non-Hodgkin's lymphoma staging determined?
- What is the treatment for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma?
- What is the prognosis and survival rate for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma?
- Is it possible to prevent non-Hodgkin's lymphoma?
- What is the latest research on non-Hodgkin's lymphoma?
- Where can people find more information about non-Hodgkin's lymphoma?
Onchocerciasis Onchocerciasis, or river blindness, is a parasitic disease that may cause blindness. It is transmitted by the bite of a female...learn more »
In This Article
Onchocerciasis Article
- Onchocerciasis facts
- What is onchocerciasis?
- What causes onchocerciasis?
- What are risk factors for onchocerciasis?
- Is onchocerciasis contagious?
- What are onchocerciasis symptoms and signs?
- Is there an incubation period for onchocerciasis?
- What types of specialists treat onchocerciasis?
- How do health-care professionals diagnose onchocerciasis?
- What is the treatment for onchocerciasis?
- Is it possible to prevent onchocerciasis?
- What is the prognosis and possible complications of onchocerciasis?
Pancreatic Cancer Pancreatic cancer is a malignant tumor of the pancreas. Pancreatic cancer has been called a "silent" disease because early...learn more »
In This Article
Pancreatic Cancer Article
- Pancreatic cancer facts
- What does a pancreas do?
- What is cancer?
- What is pancreatic cancer and its types?
- What are pancreatic cancer causes and risk factors?
- What are pancreatic cancer symptoms and signs?
- How is the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer made?
- How is pancreatic cancer staged?
- What is the treatment for resectable pancreatic cancer?
- What is the treatment for locally advanced unresectable pancreatic cancer?
- What is the treatment for metastatic pancreatic cancer?
- What are the side effects of pancreatic cancer treatment?
- What is the survival rate with pancreatic cancer?
- What research is being done on pancreatic cancer?
- Is complimentary or alternative medicine effective in pancreatic cancer treatment?
- Is it possible to prevent pancreatic cancer?
- Where can people get support when coping with pancreatic cancer?
- Where can people find additional information about pancreatic cancer?
Peanut Allergy About 1% to 2% of people in the U.S. have a peanut allergy. Symptoms and signs of a peanut allergy include rash, hives, redness,...learn more »
In This Article
Peanut Allergy Article
- Peanut allergy facts
- What is a peanut allergy?
- How common is a peanut allergy?
- Why is peanut allergy increasing and what are risk factors for a peanut allergy?
- What are peanut allergy symptoms and signs? How do physicians diagnose a peanut allergy?
- How are peanut allergies managed? What is the treatment for a peanut allergy?
- Can a peanut allergy be cured or outgrown?
Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis) Pinkeye, also called conjunctivitis, is redness or irritation of the conjunctivae, the membranes on the inner part of the eyelids...learn more »
Pityriasis Rosea Pityriasis rosea is a rash that begins with a large pink patch with well-defined scaly borders on the back, chest, or neck. In...learn more »
In This Article
Pityriasis Rosea Article
- Pityriasis rosea facts
- What is pityriasis rosea?
- Who gets pityriasis rosea?
- What causes pityriasis rosea? Is pityriasis rosea contagious?
- What are pityriasis rosea symptoms and signs?
- How do health care professionals make a diagnosis of pityriasis rosea?
- What are some common misdiagnoses of pityriasis rosea?
- What is the treatment for pityriasis rosea? How long does pityriasis rosea last?
- What home remedies can I use for pityriasis rosea?
- Is pityriasis rosea dangerous during pregnancy?
- Can pityriasis rosea be prevented?
- What is the prognosis for pityriasis rosea?
- Where can I find more information and facts about pityriasis rosea?
Poison Ivy Poison ivy, oak, and sumac contain a substance called urushiol, which causes a rash on people who come in contact with them....learn more »
In This Article
Poison Ivy Article
- Poison ivy, oak, and sumac facts
- What are poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac?
- What causes a poison ivy, oak, or sumac rash?
- What are risk factors for poison ivy, oak, or sumac rash?
- What are symptoms and signs of a poison ivy, oak, or sumac rash?
- What types of doctors treat poison ivy, oak, and sumac rash?
- How do physicians diagnose poison ivy, oak, and sumac rashes?
- Are there any home remedies for a poison ivy, oak, or sumac rash?
- What is the treatment for a poison ivy, oak, or sumac rash?
- What is the prognosis of a poison ivy, oak, or sumac rash?
- Is it possible to prevent a poison ivy, oak, or sumac rash?
Porphyria Porphyria is a group of disorders that affect the nervous system, skin, or both. Porphyria is often an inherited condition that...learn more »
In This Article
Porphyria Article
- Porphyria facts*
- What is porphyria?
- What are the types of porphyria?
- What causes porphyria?
- What are the symptoms of porphyria?
- How is porphyria diagnosed?
- How is porphyria treated?
Postherpetic Neuralgia Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a painful complication of shingles. Symptoms include: severe pain, itchy skin, and...learn more »
In This Article
Postherpetic Neuralgia Article
- Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) facts
- What is postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)?
- What causes postherpetic neuralgia?
- What are postherpetic neuralgia symptoms and signs?
- What are the risk factors for postherpetic neuralgia?
- How is postherpetic neuralgia diagnosed?
- How is postherpetic neuralgia treated?
- How long does postherpetic neuralgia last?
- What are the complications of postherpetic neuralgia?
- What is the prognosis for postherpetic neuralgia?
- Can postherpetic neuralgia be prevented?
Psoriasis Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition that may cause large plaques of red, raised skin, flakes of dry skin, and skin scales....learn more »
In This Article
Psoriasis Article
- Psoriasis facts
- What is psoriasis?
- What are psoriasis causes and risk factors?
- What are the different types of psoriasis?
- Can psoriasis affect my joints?
- Can psoriasis affect only my nails?
- What are psoriasis symptoms and signs? What does psoriasis look like?
- How do health care professionals diagnose psoriasis?
- Eczema vs. psoriasis
- How many people have psoriasis?
- Is psoriasis contagious?
- Is there a cure for psoriasis?
- Is psoriasis hereditary?
- What health care specialists treat psoriasis?
- What are psoriasis treatment options?
- What creams, lotions, and home remedies are available for psoriasis?
- Are psoriasis shampoos available?
- What oral medications are available for psoriasis?
- What injections or infusions are available for psoriasis?
- Is there a psoriasis diet?
- What about light therapy for psoriasis?
- What is the long-term prognosis with psoriasis? What are complications of psoriasis?
- Is it possible to prevent psoriasis?
- What does the future hold for psoriasis?
- Is there a national psoriasis support group?
- Where can people get more information on psoriasis?
Pubic Lice (Crabs) Pubic lice (crabs) are parasitic insects found in the genital area, and are primarily spread through sexual contact. Symptoms of...learn more »
In This Article
Pubic Lice (Crabs) Article
- What are pubic lice?
- What do pubic lice look like?
- Where are pubic lice found?
- What are the signs and symptoms of pubic lice?
- How did I get pubic lice?
- How is a pubic lice infestation diagnosed?
- How are pubic lice treated?
Rabies Rabies is a viral disease that is transmitted via the bite of an infected animal. Symptoms include fever, headaches, and...learn more »
In This Article
Rabies Article
- Rabies facts
- What is rabies?
- What causes rabies?
- What are risk factors for rabies?
- What are rabies symptoms and signs?
- How do physicians diagnose rabies?
- What is the treatment for rabies?
- What is the prognosis of rabies?
- Is it possible to prevent rabies? Is there a rabies vaccine?
Rash The word "rash" means an outbreak of red bumps on the body. The way people use this term, "a rash" can refer to many different...learn more »
Retinal Detachment Retinal detachment is the separation of the retina from its attachments to the underlying eye tissue. Symptoms of retinal...learn more »
In This Article
Retinal Detachment Article
- Retinal detachment facts
- What is the retina?
- What is a retinal detachment?
- What are retinal detachment symptoms and signs?
- What are retinal detachment causes and risk factors?
- Which diseases of the eyes predispose to the development of a retinal detachment?
- How does cataract surgery lead to a retinal detachment?
- What other factors are associated with a retinal detachment?
- Why is it mandatory to treat a retinal detachment?
- What types of doctors treat retinal detachment?
- What is the treatment for retinal detachment?
- What are complications of surgery for a retinal detachment, and what is recovery like after retinal detachment surgery?
- What are the results of surgery for a retinal detachment?
Ringworm The term "ringworm" or "ringworms" refers to fungal infections that are on the surface of the skin. A physical examination of...learn more »
Scabies Scabies are itch mites that burrow under the skin and produce intense itching that's usually worse at night. Symptoms of scabies...learn more »
Scalp Psoriasis (Psoriasis of the Scalp) Scalp psoriasis causes red, raised, scaly patches that may extend from the scalp to the forehead and the back of the neck and...learn more »
In This Article
Scalp Psoriasis (Psoriasis of the Scalp) Article
- What is scalp psoriasis? When can scalp psoriasis begin?
- What are causes and risk factors of scalp psoriasis?
- What are scalp psoriasis symptoms and signs? Can scalp psoriasis cause hair loss?
- Scalp psoriasis vs. seborrheic dermatitis
- What physicians treat scalp psoriasis?
- How do health-care professionals diagnose scalp psoriasis?
- What are scalp psoriasis home remedies and topical treatments? Are there shampoos for scalp psoriasis?
- What are office treatments for scalp psoriasis?
- What medications treat scalp psoriasis?
- What is the prognosis of scalp psoriasis? Is there a cure?
- Are there support groups for individuals with psoriasis?
Seborrheic Dermatitis Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition. Symptoms and signs include a red, scaling rash on the scalp, face, ears, and...learn more »
In This Article
Seborrheic Dermatitis Article
- Seborrheic dermatitis facts
- What is seborrheic dermatitis?
- What are risk factors for seborrheic dermatitis?
- What causes seborrheic dermatitis?
- What are seborrheic dermatitis symptoms and signs?
- How is seborrheic dermatitis diagnosed?
- What is the treatment for seborrheic dermatitis?
- What are complications of seborrheic dermatitis?
- What is the prognosis of seborrheic dermatitis?
- Can seborrheic dermatitis be prevented?
Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Women (STD) Sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs, are infections that are transmitted during any type of sexual exposure, including...learn more »
In This Article
Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Women (STD) Article
- Sexually transmitted disease (STD) definition and facts
- What are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?
- 1. Gonorrhea
- 2. Chlamydia
- 4. Syphilis
- 5. Genital herpes
- 6. Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) and genital warts
- 7. Chancroid
- 8. Pubic lice and scabies (ectoparasitic infections)
- 9. HIV and AIDS
- 10. Hepatitis B
- 11. Hepatitis C
- 12. Zika virus
- Which specialties of doctors treat STDs in women?
- Conclusions
Shingles Shingles, or herpes zoster, is a painful rash caused by the varicella zoster virus. Other shingles symptoms include headache,...learn more »
Sick Building Syndrome Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) or also referred to as sick building syndrome or environmental illness is the name given by...learn more »
In This Article
Sick Building Syndrome Article
- Sick building syndrome facts
- What is sick building syndrome?
- Why is sick building syndrome controversial?
- What types of specialists treat sick building syndrome?
- What causes sick building syndrome?
- What are risk factors for sick building syndrome?
- What are sick building syndrome symptoms and signs?
- How is sick building syndrome diagnosed?
- What is the treatment for sick building syndrome?
- What are complications of sick building syndrome?
- What is the prognosis of sick building syndrome?
- Is there a way to prevent sick building syndrome?
Skin Cancer Skin cancers occur when skin cells undergo malignant transformations and grow into tumors. The most common types of skin cancer,...learn more »
In This Article
Skin Cancer Article
- What is skin cancer?
- What are the risk factors for skin cancer?
- Is skin cancer hereditary?
- What causes skin cancer?
- What are the different types of skin cancer?
- What are the signs and symptoms of skin cancer?
- When is a mole dangerous or high-risk for becoming a skin cancer?
- What are the most common sites where skin cancer develops?
- How do physicians diagnose skin cancer?
- What is the staging for skin cancer?
- What is the treatment for skin cancer?
- What kinds of doctors treat skin cancer?
- What is the prognosis and survival rate for skin cancer?
- Is it possible to prevent skin cancer?
- Sunscreen use and vitamin D
STDs in Men Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections transmitted during sexual contact. They may be caused by viruses, bacteria,...learn more »
In This Article
STDs in Men Article
- STDS in men: Common infections and facts
- What are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?
- Who is at risk for STDs?
- What causes STDs in men?
- What are the signs and symptoms of STDs in men?
- List of STDs in men
- 1. Chlamydia
- 2. Gonorrhea
- 3. Trichomoniasis
- 4. HIV
- 5. Genital herpes
- 6. Genital warts (HPV)
- 7. Hepatitis
- 8. Syphilis
- 9. Zika virus
- Which specialties of doctors treat STDs in Men?
- How are STDs in men diagnosed?
- What is the treatment for STDs in men?
- What is the prognosis for STDs in men?
- Can STDs in men be prevented?
Sunburn (Sun Poisoning) Sunburn is caused by overexposure to UV radiation from the sun. UV rays can also damage the eyes. Repeated overexposure to UV...learn more »
In This Article
Sunburn (Sun Poisoning) Article
- Sunburn and sun poisoning facts
- What is sunburn?
- Can sunburn cause permanent damage?
- What is UV light and where are UV rays most intense?
- What are the symptoms of sunburn?
- What are the symptoms of severe sunburn (sun poisoning)?
- Sunburn pictures
- What first-aid measures should be taken with sunburn?
- What is the treatment for sunburn?
- Are there any home remedies to treat sunburn?
- Is a follow-up visit with a physician necessary?
- Who is most susceptible to sunburn?
- Can diseases cause a heightened sensitivity to UV rays?
- What kinds of skin cancer can UV rays cause?
- How can sunburn and skin cancer be prevented?
- How do sunscreens work?
- What is SPF?
- What is the best way to apply sunscreen?
- Do sunscreens expire?
- Can antioxidants protect against sunburn?
Thrush and Other Yeast Infections in Children Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of a type of fungus called Candida. Oral thrush is a yeast infection of the mouth...learn more »
In This Article
Thrush and Other Yeast Infections in Children Article
- What are yeast infections?
- Why do yeast sometimes cause symptoms and signs?
- How do babies get yeast infections?
- What is oral thrush? What are oral thrush symptoms and signs?
- How do children (and adults) acquire thrush?
- How does yeast affect diaper rash?
- Can thumb sucking cause problems with yeast?
- Can a nursing mother acquire yeast infections from her infant?
- What is the treatment for thrush and other yeast infections?
- What if the medication does not effectively treat the yeast infection?
- Should a child with yeast infection be kept out of child care?
- Are there other names for yeast infection?
Ticks Ticks are known transmitters of disease to humans and animals. Tick-borne diseases include Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted...learn more »
Yeast Infection (in Women and Men) Vaginal yeast infections in women are caused by an organism called Candida albicans. Symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection...learn more »