Pharm Promise my whole body itches! What do I do?

Skin itching can be caused by a variety of things from allergies, insect bites, internal illnesses such as kidney or liver disease, poor hygiene and/or skin diseases.

Skin itching may be localized and caused by a skin condition such as eczema, or it may be all over the body with the skin appearing normal. 

Some causes of itching all over the body include:

• Irritants: Certain allergies can cause itching all over the body. For example a food allergy, exposure to tap water that contains nickel (nickel sensitivity), certain perfumes, wool, certain soaps, mosquitoes etc
• Iron deficiency (anaemia) 
• Certain diseases like liver and kidney disease, thyroid dysfunction, neuropathy, cancer. 
• Certain medications: medications like codeine, aspirin, some antibiotics especially sulpha-based antibiotics can cause widespread itching. 
• Pregnancy: some women experience itching when pregnant. It usually occurs on the breasts, abdomen, arms and thighs. 

What can you do to relieve itchy skin? 

• Avoid scratching as it can make itching worse. 
• Avoid skin products that contain alcohol, which could dry out the skin 
• Use good moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated. 
• Stay away from soaps and lotions that are highly perfumed. 
• Take an oral antihistamine 
• Try over the counter anti itch cream

You should seek medical help if your itching is severe with no known obvious cause. 

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