Itching Treatment: Causes, Symptoms and Effective Solutions

Itching (pruritus) is a symptom that creates a feeling of discomfort on the skin and triggers the urge to scratch. Itching can be caused by skin diseases, allergic reactions, infections or systemic diseases. Chronic itching can negatively affect daily life and can lead to skin injury, infection and irritation if left untreated. Adana dermatologist Specialist Dr. Hatice Coşkun Güngördü investigates the causes of itching and offers effective treatment methods to her patients. In this article, you can find detailed information about the causes, symptoms and treatment methods of itching.

1. What is Itching?

Itching (pruritus) is an uncomfortable sensation felt on the skin and triggers the skin's urge to scratch. Although itching is usually a temporary condition, it can be a symptom of serious skin diseases when it becomes chronic. Itching can be felt locally (in a certain area) or generally (all over the body). Scratching can relieve itching for a short time, but in the long term it can irritate the skin and cause more serious problems.

2. Causes of Itching

Itching can be caused by many different reasons. Skin disorders, allergic reactions, infections or systemic diseases are among the common causes of itching. The most common causes of itching are:

Skin Diseases

Many skin diseases can cause itching. Skin diseases such as eczema, psoriasis, hives (urticaria), atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis are among the main causes of itching.

Dry Skin (Xerosis)

Dry skin is a common problem, especially in the winter months. As a result of the disruption of the skin's moisture balance, the skin dries, cracks and causes itching. Dry skin is more common in older people.

Allergic Reactions

The skin can have an allergic reaction to certain substances. Pollen, dust, animal hair, cosmetics, detergents and some foods can cause allergic itching. This reaction, known as Contact dermatitis, occurs when the skin comes into contact with certain substances.

Infections

Infections caused by bacteria, fungi and parasites can also cause itching. Tinea (fungal infections), scabies and fungal nail infections are common infections that cause itching on the skin.

Drug Side Effects

Some medications can cause itching. Some medications, such as antibiotics, antihypertensive drugs, opiates and aspirin, can cause itching. This may develop as a drug allergy or side effect.

Systemic Diseases

Itching is not limited to skin diseases only, but can also occur as a symptom of some systemic diseases. Kidney failure, liver diseases, thyroid disorders and cancer can cause itching.

Stress and Psychological Factors

Itching can also be caused by psychological reasons. Psychological conditions such as stress, anxiety and depression can trigger itching. Psychogenic itching usually occurs without a physical cause and may increase during periods of high stress levels.

3. What Are the Symptoms of Itching?

The symptoms of itching can vary depending on the condition that causes itching. Itching is often accompanied by other skin problems such as redness, dryness or scaling. The main symptoms of itching are:

• Intense desire to scratch: Itching creates an irresistible urge to scratch the skin.
• Redness: Redness and inflammation may occur on the skin in itchy areas.
• Blisters or rashes: Depending on the disease causing the itching, blisters, rashes or flaking may occur on the skin.
• Skin irritation and cracks: Constant scratching irritates the skin and causes cracks. This can increase the risk of infection.
• Dryness: Excessive dryness of the skin may be seen along with itching.

4. Can Itching Be Treated?

Treatment of itching depends on the underlying cause of itching. Specialist Dr. Hatice Coşkun Güngördü determines the condition causing itching and offers personalized treatment options to her patients. The methods used in the treatment of itching aim to calm the skin, relieve itching and eliminate the underlying problem.

5. Treatment Methods for Itching

The methods used in the treatment of itching vary depending on the cause of itching. Adana’da Specialist Dr. Hatice Coşkun Güngördü determines the most appropriate treatment method after identifying the condition that causes her patients' itching.

Moisturizing Creams

Protecting the skin's moisture is one of the most effective ways to relieve itching. Moisturizing creams relieve itching, especially caused by dry skin. Products that soothe the skin and have moisturizing properties should be used regularly.

Topical Corticosteroids

Topical corticosteroids are used to reduce inflammation and itching in the skin. These drugs are an effective treatment option for allergic reactions and inflammatory skin diseases that cause itching.

Antihistamines

When itching is caused by allergic reactions, antihistamine drugs are used. Antihistamines relieve allergy symptoms and control itching. They can also be effective against sleep problems if itching increases at night.

Oral Steroids

In cases of severe itching, oral steroid treatment can be applied under the supervision of a doctor. These drugs quickly suppress inflammation in the skin and provide relief from itching.

Phototherapy (Light Therapy)

In cases of chronic and severe itching, phototherapy is an effective treatment method. UVB rays regulate the skin's immune response, relieve itching and speed up the skin's healing process.

Antibiotic and Antifungal Treatments

When itching is caused by fungal or bacterial infections, antifungal or antibiotic treatments are used. As the infection is eliminated, the itching also decreases.

Soothing Lotions and Itch Reliever Products

Soothing lotions with natural ingredients such as chamomile oil and aloe vera can temporarily relieve itching. Itch-relieving creams and lotions provide instant relief by cooling the skin.

6. Home Remedies for Itching

There are also some simple methods that can be applied at home to relieve itching. These methods can be especially effective for mild itching and can help soothe the skin. Uzm. Dr. Hatice Coşkun Güngördü offers the following suggestions to relieve itching at home:

• Moisturize your skin: Keep your skin moist by using moisturizing cream or lotion. Moisturizing your skin, especially after bathing, reduces itching.
• Apply cool compress: You can relieve itching by compressing itchy areas with a cool, damp cloth.
• Wear cotton clothes: Prevent your skin from getting irritated by choosing cotton and soft-textured clothes. Avoid wool and synthetic fabrics.
• Take a warm bath: Soothe your skin by taking a short bath with warm water. Hot water should be avoided as it can dry out the skin.
• Stay away from irritants: Avoid chemical soaps, detergents and cosmetic products that damage your skin.
• Keep your nails short: Keep your nails short and clean to avoid scratching your skin when itching.

7. Psychological Effects of Itching

Chronic itching can negatively affect patients' quality of life and lead to psychological problems. The constant urge to scratch, especially at night, can cause sleep disorders and make daily life difficultIt can also cause psychological effects such as social shyness, anxiety and depression due to itching. Specialist Dr. Hatice Coşkun Güngördü helps her patients cope with the emotional effects of itching by providing not only physical treatment but also psychological support.

8. The Importance of Early Diagnosis of Itching

Itching can sometimes be a symptom of serious health problems. Correct diagnosis of the underlying cause of itching allows appropriate treatment to be started quickly and helps relieve symptoms. If you experience prolonged or severe itching, it is important to see a dermatologist. Early diagnosis can help prevent skin irritation and infections caused by itching.

In Adana, Specialist Dr. Hatice Coşkun Güngördü helps improve the skin health of her patients by offering modern and personalized treatment methods for itching. You can contact our clinic for more information about your itching complaints and treatment options.