Extreme itching all over the body: what to know

Dry skin, eczema, hives, insect exposure, and contact with a new soap or fabric can cause widespread itch. Liver, kidney, thyroid, blood, or immune problems can also produce itching, sometimes without a visible rash. A breast or genital-area symptom should be assessed in its own right; itching alone does not establish cancer. Itching can be a presentation of Hodgkin Lymphoma, but many people with widespread itching do not have it. Vulvar Cancer can cause persistent vulvar itching, especially when there is a visible skin change, sore, bleeding, or a lump.

Note when the itch began, where it started, whether a rash is present, and any new medicine, food, product, travel, or household exposure. Use lukewarm water, an unperfumed moisturiser, and loose cotton clothing; keep nails short and avoid scratching. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether an antihistamine or other treatment is suitable for you, particularly during pregnancy or with other medicines.

Seek urgent help for itching with facial or tongue swelling, breathing difficulty, faintness, or rapidly spreading hives. Arrange prompt medical review for yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, fever, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, swollen glands, severe fatigue, a new lump, or a rash that blisters or becomes painful. Book an appointment if the itch is severe, affects sleep, or continues despite simple skin care.

Could a medicine, allergy, skin condition, or internal problem explain this itch? Do I need an examination or blood tests? Which treatments are safe with my current medicines, pregnancy status, or other health conditions? What changes should make me seek urgent help?