Causes of itching at night

Warm bedding, sweating and low humidity can dry or irritate the skin. With fewer distractions, an existing itch may feel more prominent, and scratching can damage the skin barrier. [Atopic Dermatitis](/conditions/atopic-dermatitis/), [Asteatotic Eczema](/conditions/asteatotic-eczema/) and [Psoriasis](/conditions/psoriasis/) may itch as part of an inflammatory flare. [Scabies](/conditions/scabies/) often causes marked night itching and may affect people in the same household. [Contact Dermatitis](/conditions/contact-dermatitis/), [Hives](/conditions/urticaria/) and a [Skin Yeast Infection](/conditions/cutaneous-candidiasis/) are other possibilities.

Keep the bedroom comfortably cool, use breathable sleepwear and apply a plain, fragrance-free moisturiser after bathing. Keep nails short and use a cool compress instead of vigorous scratching. Review new soaps, detergents, bedding, medicines and supplements with a clinician; do not stop prescribed treatment on your own. If close contacts itch too, mention this when arranging an assessment.

Arrange a review when night itching repeatedly interrupts sleep, causes bleeding or leaves a persistent rash. Seek prompt help for fever, facial swelling, breathing trouble, widespread blistering, yellow crusting or rapidly worsening redness. Pregnancy, a weakened immune system or significant medical illness lowers the threshold for advice.

What features distinguish dryness from scabies or an inflammatory rash? Could a medicine be contributing? What can I safely use at bedtime, and should anyone close to me be checked?