Symptoms

Itchy skin can affect small areas, such as the scalp, an arm or a leg, or the whole body. Itchy skin can occur without any other noticeable changes on the skin. Or it may be associated with:

• Redness
• Scratch marks
• Bumps, spots or blisters
• Dry, cracked skin
• Leathery or scaly patches

Sometimes itchiness lasts a long time and can be intense. As you rub or scratch the area, it gets itchier. And the more it itches, the more you scratch. Breaking this itch-scratch cycle can be difficult.

When to see a doctor

See your doctor or a skin disease specialist (dermatologist) if the itching:

• Lasts more than two weeks and doesn't improve with self-care measures
• Is severe and distracts you from your daily routines or prevents you from sleeping
• Comes on suddenly and can't be easily explained
• Affects your whole body
• Is accompanied by other signs and symptoms, such as weight loss, fever or night sweats

If the condition persists for three months despite treatment, see a dermatologist to be evaluated for skin disease. It may also be necessary to see a doctor who specializes in internal medicine (internist) to be evaluated for other diseases.