Itchy skin – Common causes and remedies
Being the outermost layer of the body, the skin protects the body against injury and harmful substances. It also prevents loss of moisture, controls body temperature, and stores blood. Health conditions pertaining to the skin can affect such functions and cause significant discomfort. Itchy skin is a prevalent skin problem, with 22% of individuals experiencing chronic itching at some point in their lives. Here are some causes and remedies for itchy skin: Causes of itchy skin Food allergies Itchy skin and rashes may be caused by food allergies such as shellfish, soy, dairy, wheat, and peanuts. Eliminating specific foods or food groups one by one can help identify what food may be the allergen. Exposure to insects and pollen Some individuals may develop skin allergies and itching from exposure to pollen or certain insects, such as wasps, fleas, bed bugs, pinworms, and ants. Swimming Sometimes, skin itching may be caused as a reaction to parasites living in oceans, lakes, and other water bodies. This condition is referred to as swimmer’s itch. Age As one ages, the skin tends to lose moisture and become drier, which can lead to discomforting itching. More than 50% of older adults experience chronic itchy skin.