Itchy skin, also known as pruritus, is a common problem that can make you uncomfortable and can be frustrating at times as well. Usually, your skin itches when you have a rash or red bumps, making it easier for a Dermatologist in Rawalpindi to identify the cause. At times, you feel itching on your skin but do not notice any rashes or visible signs that may result in itching. The cause in such scenarios may be hard to recognize. It can be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
7 Causes of itchy skin without rash
It is advisable to consult any of the Best Dermatologists in Lahore if the itchiness prolongs. Here are some probable causes of itchy skin without any obvious symptoms:
1. Bug Bites
Insect or bug bites, such as mosquito bites can lead to skin itching. Most bug bites are identifiable as they leave a mark or a red bump. Though some insect bites may not be as easily detectable as others, for example, a tick bite might not show any signs once it leaves your skin.
2. Dry skin
Itching is a usual symptom of dry skin. Having dry skin can be due to a loss of moisture in the skin. It can occur because of genetics, environment, or an underlying disease, such as eczema. You can use a humidifier to control the moisture in the house, especially if you live in places that have extreme weather. Using a moisturizer regularly can also combat dry skin. Take necessary precautions if you genetically have dry skin. If it gets worse, consult a dermatologist.
3. Side effects of medication
Itching can happen as a side effect of certain medications. It can also be due to allergies to some medicines, such as blood pressure medicine can be the reason. Taking opioids for pain relief can also result in itchy skin. Itching can also be a sign of damage to the organs from medicines. It can happen when medication is self-prescribed or prescribed incorrectly. Other medicines such as blood thinners, anti-biotics, etc., can lead to itchiness of the skin too. Read the manual before taking any medicine, so that you are aware of its side effects.
4. Mental Health issues
A decline in mental health can also lead to skin becoming itchy. Mental health issues, such as stress, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder can present themselves as physical symptoms, which include itching. Compulsive scratching can also be a symptom of a mental health illness. Maintain good mental health by managing your stress and anxiety levels and getting help.
5. Underlying medical problem
In some cases, itchy skin can occur because of an underlying medical issue, such as diabetes, shingles, and stroke. It is also one of the symptoms of lymphoma. It can result in itching all over the body. Other symptoms of lymphoma include:
- Fever
- Sudden weight loss
- Night sweats
- Breathing issues
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
6. Pregnancy
Pregnant women are likely to feel itchy. It can be due to the stretching of the around your stomach. In some cases, it can also be due to a liver condition that usually occurs during pregnancy, it is known as intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). It mostly happens in the third trimester. It mainly happens on the palms or soles of the feet, but can spread to your upper body. It can be concerning, so it is better to consult a specialist to get treatment.
7. Diagnosing why your skin is itching
Itching goes away on its own in most cases. Your doctor may check off the most common causes first, such as dry or side effects of medication. If these are not the reason behind the itching, they may need to do tests for diagnosis. If there is a medical condition that is causing the itch, your doctor may provide you with the right course of treatment or refer you to the right specialist.
