Results for: Itching
Emergency Warning Signs
Call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain or pressure
- Sudden numbness or weakness in face, arm, or leg
- Sudden confusion or trouble speaking
- Severe allergic reaction (swelling, difficulty swallowing)
- Heavy bleeding that won't stop
- Loss of consciousness
- Signs of stroke (face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty)
20 Possible Conditions
These conditions are listed by likelihood based on the symptom. This is not a diagnosis.
Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
Chronic inflammatory skin condition causing red, itchy patches, often on flexural areas.
Psoriasis
Autoimmune disease characterized by thick, scaly plaques that can be itchy or painful.
Contact dermatitis
Skin irritation caused by direct contact with allergens or irritants, leading to localized itching and redness.
Scabies
Infestation by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, producing intense nocturnal itching and a burrowed rash.
Lichen planus
Inflammatory condition presenting with flat-topped, violaceous papules that can be itchy.
Urticaria (hives)
Transient, raised welts that appear suddenly and cause itching, often triggered by allergens or stress.
Fungal infection (tinea corporis)
Ring-shaped, scaly lesions caused by dermatophyte fungi, frequently accompanied by itching.
Dry skin (xerosis)
Loss of skin moisture leading to rough, flaky patches that often itch, especially in cold climates.
Cholestatic liver disease
Impaired bile flow can cause generalized itching without a rash, often worsening at night.
Uremic pruritus (kidney failure)
Chronic kidney disease can lead to widespread itching due to toxin accumulation.
Iron deficiency anemia
Low iron levels may cause generalized itching, often accompanied by fatigue and pallor.
Hyperthyroidism
Overactive thyroid can produce warm, itchy skin due to increased metabolism.
Diabetes mellitus
High blood glucose can lead to dry skin and peripheral neuropathy, both of which may cause itching.
Hodgkin lymphoma
Certain lymphomas can present with pruritus that is persistent and unexplained.
Polycythemia vera
Myeloproliferative disorder that often causes intense itching, especially after a hot shower.
Medication-induced pruritus
Certain drugs (e.g., opioids, antibiotics) can trigger itching as an adverse effect.
Food allergy
Allergic reactions to foods may cause oral itching, hives, or systemic pruritus.
Insect bites
Bites from mosquitoes, fleas, or bedbugs often produce localized itching and a small wheal.
Pregnancy-associated pruritus
Hormonal changes can cause generalized itching, sometimes preceding cholestasis of pregnancy.
Psychogenic itching (delusional)
Psychiatric conditions may manifest as persistent itching without dermatologic cause.
When to Seek Emergency Care
While many conditions can be managed with home care or a doctor's visit, some situations require immediate medical attention. Seek emergency care if:
Heart-Related
Chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or shortness of breath
Brain-Related
Severe headache, confusion, or sudden vision changes
High Fever
Fever above 103°F (39.4°C) or fever with stiff neck
Severe Bleeding
Uncontrolled bleeding or coughing up blood
Medical Disclaimer
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately.
Sources: Mayo Clinic, WebMD, CDC, NIH