What is that itch!?

THERE’S nothing quite like scratching an itch for pleasurable relief – even if it usually makes it worse! Here’s our guide to what could be causing that annoying niggle – and how to zap it...

Itchy scalp Itchy hands and fingers

spread by skin-to-skin contact or by sharing infected clothing or towels.

Scabies mites like warm places – skin folds, between fingers, under fingernails – but the rash and itchiness can spread all over the body. See a pharmacist for over-the-counter creams and ointments, and wash bed linen, towels and nightwear at a high temperature.

Another cause could be psoriasis (look out for silvery scales and skin thickening). Fungal infections and allergies to the metal in jewellery are other causes of itchy hands.

Itchy feet

This itchy fungal infection often occurs between the toes but can appear on any part of the foot, says podiatrist Emma Stevenson, of The College of Podiatry. The persistent flaking, red skin occurs if your feet are regularly in damp, warm conditions, so it’s common in runners.

“Try once-only anti-fungal remedies,” she advises. “And to prevent re-infection, wash your feet daily, and thoroughly dry the skin between the toes.”

Itching of the feet, legs or ankles is a common complaint in people with diabetes caused by too high blood sugar levels. See your GP for investigation.

Itchy skin

Also known as pruritus, this is an irritating and uncontrollable sensation that makes you want to scratch to relieve the feeling. Itchiness can be generalised (all over the body) or localised to one area.

“The possible causes are varied and will depend upon whether itchiness is accompanied by a rash,” says Dr Perry.

“Longstanding chronic skin conditions that trigger itchiness include eczema, psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis, and these account for around 80% of cases,” explains Dr Perry. See your GP for an accurate diagnosis and use the prescribed moisturisers as instructed. Severe cases should be referred to a dermatologist.

“Anything from infections (chickenpox, ringworm etc) and parasites (threadworms, bedbugs) to insect bites and allergic reactions (prickly heat, soaps, perfume or nickel), says Dr Perry.

“Ask a pharmacist for advice on overthe-counter treatments,” he advises, adding: “Causes of itchy skin with no rash could be due to food sensitivity or a reaction to medication, or a problem with the liver, gall bladder or thyroid.

“If the itching persists, see your GP for investigation.”

“During the menopause, levels of the hormone oestrogen fall, causing the skin to produce less oil and lose elasticity. This can lead to itching,” says Dr Morrison. “Eat more omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fish, and also walnuts, eggs and flaxseed...