HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

What Causes Severe Itching Throughout The Body?

default
Posted on Wed, 1 Feb 2017
Question: I have begun having itching and stinging over the last couple of months, over most of my body, feels like nerve endings are causing it. comes and goes at different times of the day, mainly when I am not at work.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh (39 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Pruritus

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXXX

The itching and stinging may be effects of histamine release.

Try an antihistamine, such as cetirizine 10 mg. Initially try it at a dose of 1 per day, and after you tolerate it, it is likely you may need to take two a day, or twice a day.

That may be enough to take care of it. If not, there is a stepwise plan of medications that can be used for pruritus.

But it would also be a good idea for you to see your doctor, if this has been going on for awhile, and have certain blood tests, such as a TSH level and thyroxine level done.

Use a good moisturizer that doesn't have added fragrances. Some dermatologists recommend using Crisco (I am not kidding!) as a thick, non-irritating emollient.

Watch and see if there is any correlation with certain foods.

I have had this problem myself, and I know it can be maddening. I hope this information helps.
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1991

Answered : 3134 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
What Causes Severe Itching Throughout The Body?

Brief Answer: Pruritus Detailed Answer: Hello XXXXXXX The itching and stinging may be effects of histamine release. Try an antihistamine, such as cetirizine 10 mg. Initially try it at a dose of 1 per day, and after you tolerate it, it is likely you may need to take two a day, or twice a day. That may be enough to take care of it. If not, there is a stepwise plan of medications that can be used for pruritus. But it would also be a good idea for you to see your doctor, if this has been going on for awhile, and have certain blood tests, such as a TSH level and thyroxine level done. Use a good moisturizer that doesn't have added fragrances. Some dermatologists recommend using Crisco (I am not kidding!) as a thick, non-irritating emollient. Watch and see if there is any correlation with certain foods. I have had this problem myself, and I know it can be maddening. I hope this information helps.