by Laura Magureanu

Created on: April 12, 2011   Last Updated: April 13, 2011

Itching can be interpreted as a tingling sensation on the skin that leads to almost compulsive scratching behavior. Often, itching is localized to specific areas on the body, being commonly caused by insect bites and irritation, but generalized itching can have more complex causes. So, what causes itching all over the body? Here are the answers given by health care professionals.

Allergy

One of the most common causes of all over the body itching is represented by allergies. It can appear as a symptom of an allergy caused by medication or by other factors. In case you suspect that you are itching all over the body because of a certain drug, you should consult your physician about prescribing another medication. Sometimes, skin allergies appear because the skin has entered into contact with an allergen. Change your detergent and your body creams and soaps, if you suspect they might be the culprit for your itching sensation.

Childhood infections

In children, itching all over the body can be a sign of a childhood infection. It is known that such infections, like measles or chickenpox, can lead to extreme itching. The child will complain about the itching sensation, as pustules will erupt on his or her skin.

Iron deficiency

Iron deficiency can also be accompanied by the side effect of itching all over the body. Since iron is very important to proper functioning of the body, as lack of iron is related to a low number of red cells in the blood, usually, the person suffering from iron deficiency will feel irritability; itching all over the body can also occur.

Liver and kidney disease

In case you notice that your itching is not accompanied by rashes, and it is not caused by stings or bites, you may want to see your doctor right away. Diseases affecting the liver or the kidneys may be accompanied by itching all over the body, so it is very important to find out if this is the cause of your itching sensation.

Pregnancy

Sometimes, pregnant women can also experience itching all over the body. The hormonal changes taking place in the body, as well as the skin that stretches to accommodate the enlarged belly can lead to such unpleasant sensations, but they are not uncommon or life threatening.

These are some answers to what causes itching all over the body. Do not hesitate to call your doctor if the itching sensation persists for more than a couple of days.

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