What makes legs itch

Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Fazio SB, et al. Pruritis: Overview of management. Accessed Sept. Pruritus without rash. Mayo Clinic; James WD, et al. Pruritus and neurocutaneous dermatoses. Elsevier; Accessed Nov. Yosipovitch G, et al. Chronic pruritis. The New England Journal of Medicine. Gibson LE expert opinion. Mayo Clinic. Fazio SB, et al. Other substances that can cause an allergic skin reaction include nail polish, fragrances, shampoos, latex, and cement.

This can be challenging and often requires the help of a dermatologist or an allergist. Find out how board-certified dermatologists diagnose and treat these allergies at, Contact dermatitis: Diagnosis, treatment, and outcome. Reaction to a plant or marine life. Marine life - You can also get an itchy rash after being in water, such as an ocean, lake, or pond.

Sometimes, intensely itch welts hives and blisters also appear. Because it can take time for the itchy rash to appear, some people are unaware of the cause. If you go in the water often, pay attention. How to get relief: If you stay away from the plant or marine life that causes your skin to itch, the rash tends to go away on its own within a few days to a couple of weeks. As we age, our skin changes. Dry skin can itch. There could be more than one reason for your itchy skin. If the itch is due to dry skin, your dermatologist may recommend making some skin care changes and using generous amounts of moisturizer.

Medication or cancer treatment. Itch can be a side effect of taking some medications, such as aspirin, prescription-strength pain relievers called opioids, and some blood-pressure drugs. It can also be a side effect of cancer treatment. How to get relief: Ask the doctor who prescribed the medication or treatment if itch can be a side effect. It is it, your doctor may give you tips that can help reduce the itch and continue treatment.

Nerve problem. Diseases that can cause this type of itch, include: Shingles Stroke Multiple sclerosis Long after the shingles rash clears, you can have pain, numbness, itching, and tingling that can last for months — or years. How to get relief: If you have severe itch or pain , tell your dermatologist, who may prescribe a medication.

Long-standing itch can affect your quality of life. It can disrupt your sleep, make it difficult to concentrate, and cause you to scratch until your skin bleeds. Plants that can make you itch. Home remedies: How to relieve itchy eczema. Oatmeal baths can also be helpful, particularly for children and infants with itchy skin.

Read more about natural ways to relieve itching. It is time to see a doctor about itchy legs if they do not get better in a week or more or show no signs of improvement after home treatment. A doctor can determine what is causing persistently itchy legs and prescribe lotions, gels, cleansers, medications, and other treatment to provide relief. In most cases, people with itchy legs can address or manage their condition with careful skin washing, regular moisturizing, and OTC medications.

People with chronic skin conditions, such as eczema, may need to use prescription medications to reduce their itching. When severe health conditions cause itchy legs, it is essential to see a doctor who can assess the condition and provide relief from symptoms.

Itchiness after shaving can occur in any area that a person shaves. Shaving incorrectly, using products that contain harsh chemicals, or shaving a…. Itchy feet can be bothersome and stop a person from sleeping or focusing on daily activities. Learn about the causes of itchy feet and how to treat…. People with diabetes experience skin itching more often than those who do not. This can happen because nerve fibers become damaged by excess glucose…. What causes itchy legs? Medically reviewed by Owen Kramer, M.

Causes Diagnosis Remedies Seeing a doctor Summary Itchy skin, or pruritus, is a common condition that can affect any part of the body. Possible causes. Share on Pinterest Causes of itchy legs include dry skin, bug bites, and chronic skin conditions. Share on Pinterest Psoriasis may cause inflamed plaques to appear on the body. Tips for diagnosis. How to relieve itchiness. When to see a doctor. Latest news Could 'cupping' technique boost vaccine delivery?

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