Read more about treatments to relieve itching. Many cases of itching will get better over a short period of time. However, you should visit your GP if your itch is:. You should also visit your GP if your entire body itches and there is no obvious cause. It could be a symptom of a more serious condition.
Your GP will ask you about your symptoms — for example, if you have noticed whether anything makes your itch worse, or if your itch comes and goes. They will also examine your skin to look for any visible symptoms. In some cases, they may take a skin scraping or a swab so it can be tested to help identify the cause of your itching. A blood test may also be carried out to look for underlying problems, such as thyroid or kidney disease.
Depending on what is found to be causing your itch, you may be referred to a hospital specialist for a further assessment and specific treatment. An itch is often caused by a condition affecting the skin, but it can be a sign of a more serious underlying problem. Itching can be a sign of an underlying condition that may affect the inside of the body without necessarily causing any other obvious symptoms.
Occasionally, itching can be linked to a psychological condition such as depression or anxiety. In women, itching can sometimes be caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy and after the menopause. Itching often affects pregnant women and usually disappears after the birth. A number of skin conditions can develop during pregnancy and cause itchy skin. They include:. Seek advice from your midwife or GP if you have itching or any unusual skin rashes during your pregnancy.
Changes in the levels of hormones, such as oestrogen, that occur during the menopause are thought to be responsible for the itching. Read more about some of the causes of itching. Itchy skin has many possible causes. If you have other symptoms such as a rash or swelling this might help to find the cause. Itchy skin is also common during pregnancy or after the menopause. This is caused by hormonal changes and usually gets better over time. In rare cases, itchy skin can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as thyroid, liver or kidney problems.
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