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Itchy
My skin is dry
Itching
Skin peeling
Itch
Dry flaky skin
Itchy skin
Not seeing your symptoms? No worries!
What is Pruritus?
Pruritus is the sensation of itchy skin. Causes vary greatly from dry skin, infections, skin conditions, allergies, and other internal diseases.
Typical Symptoms of Pruritus
- Itchy skin
- Family history of Asthma, Eczema, Allergic rhinitis or Allergic conjunctivitis
- Dry skin that gets worse or cracks in the winter months
- Skin rashes with tiny bumps
- Itchy skin that gets worse at night
- Multiple areas of skin redness or red spots
- Welts appear when skin is scratched or rubbed
- Thick, leathery skin
Diagnostic Questions for Pruritus
Your doctor may ask these questions to check for this disease:
- Do you have itchy skin?
- Does anyone in your family have a history of asthma, allergies, or hay fever?
- Does your dry skin worsen or crack during winter?
- Do you have a skin rash with tiny bumps?
- Does your skin get itchier at night?
Treatment of Pruritus
Mild cases that are tolerable can be managed at home with good moisturizing. If pruritus is accompanied by other symptoms or doesn't improve, prescription creams, ointments, and oral medications can help. Treatment of the underlying cause of the itch is necessary.
Reviewed By:
Sarita Nori, MD (Dermatology)
Dr. Sarita Nori was drawn to dermatology because of the intersection of science and medicine that is at the heart of dermatology. She feels this is what really allows her to help her patients. “There is a lot of problem-solving in dermatology and I like that,” she explains. “It’s also a profession where you can help people quickly and really make a difference in their lives.” | Some of the typical skin problems that Dr. Nori treats include skin cancers, psoriasis, acne, eczema, rashes, and contact dermatitis. Dr Nori believes in using all possible avenues of treatment, such as biologics, especially in patients with chronic diseases such as eczema and psoriasis. “These medications can work superbly, and they are really life-changing for many patients.” | Dr. Nori feels it’s important for patients to have a good understanding of the disease or condition that is affecting them. “I like to educate my patients on their problem and have them really understand it so they can take the best course of action. Patients always do better when they understand their skin condition, and how to treat it.”
Yukiko Ueda, MD (Dermatology)
Dr. Ueda graduated from the Niigata University School of Medicine and trained at the University of Tokyo Medical School. She is currently a clinical assistant professor at the Department of Dermatology, Jichi Medical University, and holds several posts in the dermatology departments at Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Komagome Hospital, University of Tokyo, and the Medical Center of Japan Red Cross Society.
Content updated on Sep 4, 2024
Following the Medical Content Editorial Policy
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People with similar symptoms also use Ubie's symptom checker to find possible causes
- The skin is itchy and has scratches
- Skin itching that worsens at night
- Itch is mild
- Scratching the skin
- Nighttime itch is worse
- Persistent, mild itch
- A scratch
- Itch improves during the day
- Itch is minor
See full list
Symptoms Related to Pruritus
Diseases Related to Pruritus
FAQs
Q.
Intense Itching? Why Your Liver Is Stalling & Medically Approved Next Steps
A.
Intense itching without a rash, especially worse at night on the palms and soles, can signal cholestasis when bile flow stalls; causes include medications, liver disease, gallstones or bile duct blockage, and pregnancy, and doctors confirm it with liver blood tests and imaging. There are several factors to consider, so seek prompt care for red flags like jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, fever, severe abdominal pain, confusion, or if you are pregnant, and discuss approved treatments such as ursodeoxycholic acid and bile acid binders; see the complete next steps below.
References:
* Kremer AE, Nüssler NC, Lange C, Lauer UM, Schirmacher P, Schemmer P, Steurer W, Stärkel P. Pruritus in Cholestatic Liver Diseases: Pathophysiology and Management. Gastroenterology. 2018 Dec;155(6):1816-1827.e2. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2018.06.075. Epub 2018 Aug 3. PMID: 30076735.
* Berridge H, Kremer AE. Therapeutic approaches to cholestatic pruritus. Ther Adv Gastroenterol. 2020 Jun 22;13:1756284820930776. doi: 10.1177/1756284820930776. PMID: 32637000; PMCID: PMC7317769.
* Sridharan K, Goenka M, Saikia N. Diagnosis and Management of Pruritus in Chronic Liver Diseases: A Review. J Clin Exp Hepatol. 2020 Jul-Aug;10(4):390-398. doi: 10.1016/j.jceh.2019.06.009. Epub 2019 Jul 20. PMID: 32801455; PMCID: PMC7402146.
* Fickert P, Schrutka-Kölbl C, Müllner S, Kittinger M. Current strategies for the management of cholestatic pruritus. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2023 Feb;17(2):167-177. doi: 10.1080/17474124.2023.2166699. Epub 2023 Jan 26. PMID: 36695277.
* Koulentaki M, Giamouzis G, Kouroumalis EA. Pharmacological treatment of pruritus in cholestatic liver diseases: current concepts. Ann Gastroenterol. 2017 Jul-Aug;30(4):396-403. doi: 10.20524/aog.2017.0163. Epub 2017 Jun 21. PMID: 28652661; PMCID: PMC5499276.
Q.
Itch Won't Stop? Why Your Skin is Inflamed + Calamine Lotion Medical Next Steps
A.
Persistent itch usually means your skin is inflamed from causes like contact dermatitis, eczema, heat rash, insect bites, hives, infections, or even internal conditions; calamine lotion can soothe and dry mild rashes such as poison ivy, bites, or heat rash but is not a cure-all. If itching lasts more than two weeks, is severe or widespread, lacks a rash, or comes with warning signs like fever, pus, yellowing skin, weight loss, or face or throat swelling, seek medical care for a skin exam, labs, and targeted treatment; there are several factors to consider, so see the complete guidance below.
References:
* Yosipovitch G, et al. Mechanisms of chronic pruritus. *Nat Rev Neurol*. 2018 Jan;14(1):50-60. PMID: 29213123.
* Mettang T, et al. Treating chronic pruritus: Current and emerging options. *Dermatol Ther*. 2017 Jul;30(4):e12476. PMID: 28421689.
* Yosipovitch G, et al. Topical treatments for pruritus. *J Am Acad Dermatol*. 2018 Apr;78(4):815-822. PMID: 29548446.
* Al-Daghri N. The Itch-Scratch Cycle: A Review of the Mechanisms and Therapeutic Approaches. *J Clin Med*. 2023 Jul 21;12(14):4853. PMID: 37510790.
* Misery L, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Topical Treatments for Chronic Pruritus: A Systematic Review. *Acta Derm Venereol*. 2021 May 26;101(5):adv00473. PMID: 33930472.
Q.
Can’t Stop Itching? Why Your Skin Is Reacting & Medically Approved Next Steps
A.
There are several factors to consider, from dry skin and common rashes to allergies, nerve issues, stress, and even internal illnesses; proven next steps include rich fragrance free moisturizers, brief lukewarm showers with gentle cleansers, targeted anti itch treatments, minimizing scratching, and tracking triggers. Get prompt care for severe or unexplained itch or if you have yellowing skin or eyes, fever, swelling, breathing trouble, weight loss, night sweats, or infection signs; see below for important red flags, tests for chronic itch, and special guidance for pregnancy, children, and older adults that can change your next steps.
References:
* Lieu, T., & Tey, H. L. (2023). Chronic Pruritus: A Review of Current Understanding and Management. *Dermatology and Therapy*, *13*(2), 335-349. DOI: 10.1007/s13555-023-00892-9. PMID: 36720760.
* Ständer, S. (2021). New insights into the neurobiology of pruritus. *Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology*, *147*(4), 1184-1191. DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2021.02.016. PMID: 33714652.
* Weisshaar, E., & Ständer, S. (2020). Pruritus and Systemic Diseases: Itch in the Context of Internal Disorders. *Clinics in Dermatology*, *38*(3), 256-267. DOI: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2020.01.006. PMID: 32573295.
* Pereira, M. P., & Ständer, S. (2022). Chronic Pruritus: A Comprehensive Review of Diagnostics and Therapeutics. *Clinical Reviews in Allergy & Immunology*, *62*(1), 1-17. DOI: 10.1007/s12016-020-08836-8. PMID: 33382098.
* Krajewski, A. C., & Ständer, S. (2022). The Use of Topical and Systemic Therapies for the Treatment of Chronic Pruritus. *Dermatologic Clinics*, *40*(2), 221-235. DOI: 10.1016/j.det.2022.01.004. PMID: 35367098.
Q.
Itch won't stop? Why your skin is resisting Clotrimazole and your medical next steps.
A.
If clotrimazole is not stopping the itch, there are several factors to consider. The most common are a wrong diagnosis, a resistant or deeper fungal infection, a mixed fungal and bacterial problem, irritation or allergy to the product, or a non skin cause of itch; using it correctly for 2 to 4 weeks matters. See below for red flags, when to see a doctor, and step by step next moves including confirming the cause, avoiding product stacking, trying a different or stronger antifungal or oral therapy, and what to do if there is itch without a rash.
References:
* Sahoo AK, Mahajan R. Dermatophyte resistance to antifungal agents: an emerging global concern. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 2023 Jul-Aug;89(4):539-548. doi: 10.25259/IJDVL_823_2022. PMID: 36725206.
* Perveen T, Khan Z, Al-Hatmi AMS. Global increase of antifungal resistance among dermatophytes: a narrative review. Mycoses. 2022 Sep;65(9):895-905. doi: 10.1111/myc.13506. Epub 2022 Jul 18. PMID: 35848247.
* Agrawal V, Kumar P, Singh J, Chandra S, Talwar P. Antifungal Resistance in Dermatophytes: A Critical Review. J Clin Diagn Res. 2020 Feb;14(2):WC01-WC05. doi: 10.7860/JCDR/2020/42603.13603. Epub 2020 Feb 1. PMID: 32206684.
* Sharma R, Jindal N, Thami GP. Emergence of dermatophyte resistance: a global challenge. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 2020 Mar-Apr;86(2):123-132. doi: 10.4103/ijdvl.IJDVL_341_19. PMID: 31929314.
* Singh S, Das S, Agarwal N, Lal P. Failure of topical antifungal treatment for superficial dermatophytoses: is it a sign of emerging resistance? J Clin Diagn Res. 2018 Jan;12(1):WC01-WC04. doi: 10.7860/JCDR/2018/31201.11029. Epub 2018 Jan 1. PMID: 29515694.
Q.
Skin Still Itching? Why Triamcinolone Is Used and Medically Approved Next Steps
A.
Triamcinolone is a prescription topical corticosteroid that calms immune-driven inflammation to relieve itching, redness, and swelling from conditions like eczema, contact dermatitis, mild psoriasis, insect bites, and allergic rashes. It often helps within days, but it treats symptoms and not the underlying trigger. If you are still itching, there are several factors to consider and medically approved next steps, including confirming the diagnosis, adjusting potency or adding nonsteroidal options, removing triggers, treating infection, or checking internal causes; see below for safety tips, red flags, and when to seek care.
References:
* Stashak AB, Stone MS. Topical Corticosteroids. 2023 Feb 20. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan–. PMID: 32310368.
* Kwatra SG, Ständer S, Messina M, Yosipovitch G. New developments in the understanding and treatment of chronic pruritus. N Engl J Med. 2023 Jan 26;388(4):347-357. doi: 10.1056/NEJMra2205562. PMID: 36695304.
* Hajar T, Leshem YA, Hanifin JM, Nedorost ST, Lio PA, Paller AS, Simpson EL. A systematic review of topical corticosteroid withdrawal ("red skin syndrome") in patients with atopic dermatitis and other dermatoses. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021 Dec;85(6):1488-1493. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2020.12.072. Epub 2020 Dec 31. PMID: 33388349.
* Yosipovitch G, Ständer S, Yosipovitch L. Pruritus: A Review of Current and Emerging Treatments. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2022 Jul;87(1):164-180. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2021.10.052. Epub 2021 Nov 1. PMID: 34735876.
* Sidbury R, Tom WL, Bergman JN, Cooper WF, Eichenfield LF, Fleischer AB Jr, Friedlander SF, Gurrentz EJ, Hultsch T, Joung P, Lio PA, Mancini AJ, McCandless J, Paller AS, Schwarzenberger K, Simpson EL, Silverberg JI, Williams HC, Yosipovitch G, Block J, Smith Begolka W, Lockshin B. Guidelines of care for the management of atopic dermatitis: Section 2. Management and treatment of atopic dermatitis with topical therapies. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2023 Jul;89(1):109-131. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2023.04.053. Epub 2023 Apr 28. PMID: 37120038.
Q.
Still Itching? Why Your Skin Is Inflamed & Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream Medical Steps
A.
Persistent itching usually means your skin is inflamed from causes like eczema, allergic or contact dermatitis, psoriasis, bites, dryness, or infections, and triamcinolone acetonide cream, a prescription medium to high potency steroid, can relieve redness and itch when used correctly and short term. There are several factors to consider for safe, effective relief, including removing triggers, correct application, and knowing red flags that need medical care; important details that could change your next steps are explained below.
References:
* Ständer S, et al. Chronic Pruritus: An Updated Review. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2020 Jul;83(1):229-239. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2019.09.028. Epub 2019 Sep 24. PMID: 31561073.
* Wollenberg A, et al. Atopic dermatitis: diagnosis and treatment. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2018 Jan;141(1):15-28. doi: 10.1016/j.jaci.2017.11.002. Epub 2017 Dec 1. PMID: 29329704.
* Kircik LH, et al. Topical Therapies for Inflammatory Skin Diseases. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019 Nov 1;18(11):1114-1120. PMID: 31730623.
* Coondoo A, et al. Topical corticosteroids in dermatology: an update. Indian Dermatol Online J. 2014 Apr-Jun;5(2):247-52. doi: 10.4103/2229-5178.134371. PMID: 25024922; PMCID: PMC4086111.
* Dhar S, et al. Topical corticosteroids: an update on their use and misuse. Indian J Dermatol. 2014 Jul-Aug;59(4):460-4. doi: 10.4103/0019-5154.139882. PMID: 25284852; PMCID: PMC4171926.
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https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2024.08.29.24312810v1References
Song J, Xian D, Yang L, Xiong X, Lai R, Zhong J. Pruritus: Progress toward Pathogenesis and Treatment. Biomed Res Int. 2018 Apr 11;2018:9625936. doi: 10.1155/2018/9625936. PMID: 29850592; PMCID: PMC5925168.
https://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2018/9625936/Chung BY, Um JY, Kim JC, Kang SY, Park CW, Kim HO. Pathophysiology and Treatment of Pruritus in Elderly. Int J Mol Sci. 2020 Dec 26;22(1):174. doi: 10.3390/ijms22010174. PMID: 33375325; PMCID: PMC7795219.
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/22/1/174Nowak DA, Yeung J. Diagnosis and treatment of pruritus. Can Fam Physician. 2017 Dec;63(12):918-924. Erratum in: Can Fam Physician. 2018 Feb;64(2):92. PMID: 29237630; PMCID: PMC5729138.
https://www.cfp.ca/content/63/12/918.longWeisshaar E, Szepietowski JC, Dalgard FJ, Garcovich S, Gieler U, Giménez-Arnau AM, Lambert J, Leslie T, Mettang T, Misery L, Şavk E, Streit M, Tschachler E, Wallengren J, Ständer S. European S2k Guideline on Chronic Pruritus. Acta Derm Venereol. 2019 Apr 1;99(5):469-506. doi: 10.2340/00015555-3164. PMID: 30931482.
https://medicaljournalssweden.se/actadv/article/view/3172