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Itching
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Symptoms

Itching

Itching is an irritating sensation that prompts a desire to scratch and can be a symptom of various underlying health conditions.

What is itching?

Itching is an irritating sensation that makes you want to scratch your skin. Sometimes it can feel like pain, but it is different. Often, you feel itchy in one area in your body, but sometimes you may feel itching all over. Along with the itching, you may also have a rash or hives.

What causes itching?

Itching is a symptom of many health conditions. Some common causes are:

  • Allergic reactions to food, insect bites, pollen, and medicines
  • Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin
  • Irritating chemicals, cosmetics, and other substances
  • Parasites such as pinworms, scabies, head and body lice
  • Pregnancy
  • Liver, kidney, or thyroid diseases
  • Certain cancers or cancer treatments
  • Diseases that can affect the nervous system, such as diabetes and shingles

What are the treatments for itching?

Most itching is not serious. To feel better, you could try:

  • Applying cold compresses
  • Using moisturizing lotions
  • Taking lukewarm or oatmeal baths
  • Using over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or antihistamines
  • Avoiding scratching, wearing irritating fabrics, and exposure to high heat and humidity

Contact your health care provider if your itching is severe, does not go away after a few weeks, or does not have an apparent cause. You may need other treatments, such as medicines or light therapy. If you have an underlying disease that is causing the itching, treating that disease may help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Food allergies or intolerances (e.g., dairy, nuts, shellfish) can cause itching or hives. Keep a food diary noting any new foods and any itching that follows. Medications such as ACE inhibitors, beta‑blockers, or certain antibiotics can cause pruritus. If you suspect a medication, discuss with your prescriber; they may switch you to an alternative or add a topical steroid to manage the itch.===
Wear loose, breathable clothing made of natural fibers like cotton. Keep the skin cool with cool compresses or a lukewarm shower, and avoid hot baths or showers that can dry the skin further. Use fragrance‑free moisturizers immediately after bathing to lock in moisture, and consider an oatmeal bath if you have eczema or dry skin.
If the itching lasts longer than a few weeks, is severe, or is accompanied by a rash, hives, fever, or weight loss, you should see a healthcare provider. Persistent itching that does not improve with over‑the‑counter creams or moisturizers may signal an underlying condition such as liver disease, kidney problems, thyroid disorders, or a systemic infection.
Topical hydrocortisone 1% cream applied twice daily can reduce inflammation and itching. For more persistent symptoms, a non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory cream such as diclofenac gel may help. Oral antihistamines (diphenhydramine or cetirizine) can relieve nighttime itching, but avoid sedating options during the day if you need to stay alert. Always follow the product instructions and consult a pharmacist if you have kidney or liver disease.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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