ReadersAisle.com | Reliable Information Simplified

8 common causes of itchy skin

Itchy skin is a common problem that can affect people of all ages. Skin problems are often the first indicators of various conditions affecting the body and its functioning. Healthy skin can be a consequence of a healthy body, while issues like itching and irritation can be brought on by various conditions and triggers. So, here are some of the common triggers of itchy skin to recognize and avoid, especially if one has sensitive skin:

Dryness
Dry skin is a common problem, but it can be difficult to tell whether one is experiencing dryness or irritation. Itching is often accompanied by redness when one’s skin is dry. If one experiences persistent dryness, one should speak to a dermatologist to determine the causes. Doctors may recommend testing for allergies and infections, as these conditions can contribute to itching. Itchy skin is a common symptom of many skin conditions. So, it is crucial to determine if the underlying is dryness or a serious health concern so that one can take the appropriate steps to treat the symptom and the cause.

Food allergens
Certain foods can cause itching, and food allergens that trigger adverse reactions in the mouth, lungs, and intestines can also lead to an itchy rash on the skin. Common allergens include milk, eggs, nuts (peanuts), tree nuts (walnuts), and seafood like fish, shellfish, crustaceans, and mollusks. Further, many people can be allergic to lobster, gluten (in wheat products and bread), soy, peanuts, and other legumes (beans). If one is affected by a severe food allergy, symptoms can be concerning and require immediate treatment. Milder food allergies can cause itching and symptoms such as hives, swelling of the lips and throat, and tingling in the mouth or the tongue.

Dust
Dust allergies are common, and one can have a reaction to household allergens like dust mites, pollen, and mold. Dust allergies develop when the immune system overreacts to a substance that is not typically harmful (say, dust particles) when it comes into contact with skin cells in the nose or mouth. The result is a reaction in which the body releases histamine—a chemical that triggers watery eyes, sneezing, or coughing—which can lead to itching or redness on the skin

Insect bites
Insect bites, in particular mosquito and bee stings, are a common cause of skin irritation. Mosquito bites can be itchy and uncomfortable, while bee stings can be extremely painful. Flea and tick bites can also cause itching in some people. Midges (also known as chiggers) are tiny insects that burrow into the skin till they reach the nervous system. The pests disrupt bodily functions with saliva secretions containing histamine-like substances called diamines. The substances stimulate nerve endings, causing itching or tingling sensations in the body. Further, having lice can also trigger irritation. Here, one can opt for preventive methods such as wearing long-sleeved shirts when outside on sunny days, as pests can thrive in warmth and humidity. One should also opt for products like mosquito repellents, nets, and pest control to avoid or eliminate infestations.

Dermatitis
This is a skin condition that is characterized by inflammation and can be triggered by irritants such as wool and perfumes and other triggers like stress, allergies, and infections. Conditions like psoriasis or eczema can also cause dermatitis; being affected by an underlying medical condition such as thyroid disease can trigger dermatitis flare-ups. A common symptom of dermatitis is itchy skin and rashes. When affected by the condition, doctors may recommend treatment options like creams and ointments that can help relieve the itching.

Plant allergies
These are common causes of skin irritation and can be triggered by coming into contact with allergens like poison ivy, oak, and sumac. Here, the allergic reaction can appear as an itchy rash on the skin after touching the plant. One can also experience hives, redness, swelling, rashes on the face or the body, and even blisters. The rash may look like a cluster of red bumps that may swell and form blisters. One’s skin may become swollen, red, and itchy when experiencing an allergic reaction.

Soaps
Many products contain chemicals and other ingredients that can irritate one’s skin. The most common irritants are found in products like shower gels, soap, shampoos, and cleansers. If one experiences irritation when they switch to a new product, they should avoid using it immediately and opt for a fragrance-free, natural alternative. One could choose handmade soaps made from essential oils or coconut oil, which have been shown to reduce inflammation, handmade body wash made using a natural soap for gentle exfoliation, and oil-based products like olive oil for hydration without leaving a residue that can cause itching. One can also try a homemade body wash made using essential oils or coconut oil that will gently exfoliate the skin and make it feel soft. If affected by dermatitis, choosing a product free from fragrances and artificial ingredients like preservatives is crucial.

Wool and perfume
The most common triggers for itchy skin are wool and perfumes. Wool is a natural material, but it can irritate sensitive skin. Fragrances are also common triggers and can irritate the skin, especially when it is broken or dry. Other common irritants are materials like synthetic fabric and dyes used in clothing and detergents that contain harsh chemicals like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). Further, certain detergents can contain irritants like dyes and bleach, making them trigger itching.

So, many irritants and allergens in one’s food, clothes, skincare products, and detergents can result in itchy skin and other problems. One should opt for bleach-free laundry detergents and check the label for ingredients to avoid when buying soaps, food products, hygiene products, and cosmetics. Further, certain conditions can also trigger irritation and require immediate treatment. One should consult a doctor to get a customized treatment plan to relieve persistent symptoms like itching, redness, irritation, and other kinds of discomfort.

Popular Reads

Top 6 foods that may reduce dementia risk

Many individuals mistakenly believe that dementia is a disease, but it’s a term used to describe symptoms related to memory, social abilities, and thinking. These symptoms can be challenging to manage and can impact daily activities. However, healthcare professionals often recommend implementing a healthy meal plan as a way to improve management. If you’re interested in learning about how your food intake can reduce the risk of developing dementia, read on. What is dementia? As previously mentioned, dementia is not a specific disease. Instead, health conditions like Alzheimer’s disease are among its most frequent causes in older adults. Other known causes of dementia include damage to the blood vessels that supply nutrients to the brain, the formation of balloon-like proteins in the brain, and the breakdown of connections and nerve cells in the brain. While memory loss is one of its most recognizable signs, this symptom alone does not mean one has dementia. Most symptoms of this group of health issues can vary depending on the cause. Hence, here are some of the most common signs to look out for. Memory loss Difficulties while communicating Reasoning and problem-solving issues Poor control of movements and coordination Disorientation Confusion What are the foods that can help reduce the risk of dementia? Typically, dementia and Alzheimer’s are known to be caused by a combination of several factors, such as environmental, lifestyle, and genetic. Furthermore, developing issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease can contribute to cognitive decline in patients. Therefore, healthcare professionals suggest the consumption of nutrient-rich foods to reduce dementia risk as one grows older. Some of the foods that can be added to one’s meal plan are: Avocados Avocados are one of the most commonly known superfoods, which can provide the brain with the needed energy without a spike in blood sugar levels.

Avoid these 15 common shower mistakes

There is nothing a warm shower cannot resolve. Showering after a long day can be a stress reliever and enhance one’s mood instantly. It also has several other health benefits besides cleansing the body, including facilitating cold relief, boosting immunity, and relieving muscle pain. However, not bathing the right way can give rise to skin conditions such as rashes and eczema. Here are some common mistakes one should avoid while bathing and showering: Not moisturizing after a shower Wiping after a bath can reduce the body’s moisture, causing dry skin, which can lead to rashes and itching. Dermatologists recommend applying body lotion and moisturizer immediately after a shower to retain skin texture and prevent dryness. One should look for hypoallergenic moisturizers that do not have any added fragrances. Bathing in scorching hot water Scorching hot water can damage keratin cells in the skin’s outer layer. Consequently, the skin becomes dry and dehydrated. It is important to balance the water temperature before stepping into the shower. Ideally, the temperature of the water should be lukewarm. Using the wrong towel An absorbent towel that does not feel rough is ideal for wiping oneself after a shower. The most effective way to select the right towel is to check its density, measured in grams per square meter (GSM). Towels with GSMs between 400 and 550 are considered ideal for use after bathing. One should avoid towels below a GSM of 400, as these towels can be thin and rough, causing skin dryness. Moreover, towels made of superior-quality Egyptian or Turkish cotton are extremely soft and perfect for the skin. Soaping the arms and legs excessively While it is important to wash and clean one’s arms and legs, these areas typically do not collect much oil and dust. Hence, scrubbing them excessively can dry out these areas and hamper their natural texture.

15 signs of a weak immune system

The immune system is a complex network of organs, cells, and proteins that act as the body’s defense mechanism against diseases and infections. The system —the innate immune system that people are born with and the adaptive immune system, which develops due to exposure to toxins and microbes. Both parts work together to keep infection-causing germs and toxins. So, weak immunity can make the body susceptible to diseases and other health issues. High stress levels The American Psychological Association suggests that chronic stress weakens the immune system. This is because stress lowers the number of white blood cells (i.e., lymphocytes) in the body that fight infections, increasing the risk of infections such as the common cold. Persistent cold Most adults develop two to three colds per year, which usually last from 7 to 10 days. During this period, the immune system forms antibodies to fight the virus. However, if one keeps catching a cold or is dealing with common cold symptoms for a long time, it could be a sign of weak immunity. Slow-healing wounds When one develops a cut or a wound, the body immediately goes into damage control mode to stop any bleeding and regenerate skin. Immune cells in the body guide this process. However, when dealing with a weakened immune system, wounds take longer to heal. This can make one more susceptible to infections as well. Frequent infections Those with a lowered immunity are at a higher risk of contracting infections such as pneumonia, meningitis, bronchitis, and skin infections. They are also more likely to experience autoimmune disorders, organ inflammation, blood disorders such as anemia, and growth and developmental delays. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, some signs of weak immunity include: – Having more than four ear infections in a year – Developing pneumonia twice within a year – Dealing with chronic sinusitis or more than three episodes of bacterial sinusitis in a year Fatigue If one constantly feels tired despite getting enough sleep, it may be a sign of weak immunity.