Skin Disorders

Itchy skin or pruritus is an uncomfortable and irritating sensation that makes you want to scratch your skin. Itchy skin can be worsened by xerosis or dry skin. As we age, skin tends to become drier and hold lesser moisture. Thus, itchy skin is more commonly observed in older adults.

There are various causes of itchy skin. According to the cause, your skin could appear normal, red and swollen, rough or bumpy. Due to constant scratching, the affected area could thicken and skin may bleed or get infected.

Deciding the cause of your itch can take time and a number of examinations. The doctor might also ask you questions about your medical history and medications. They can even suggest blood tests, thyroid, liver and kidney function tests and chest x-rays if they suspect that your itchy skin is a result of a medical condition.

While itching skin can be cured gradually by medication, there are some lifestyle changes you can adopt and some home remedies you can follow to temporarily decrease the itchiness.