What should you know about itching all over?

Generalised itching may occur even when the skin looks normal. Dry skin, eczema, an allergic reaction, infection, or a new medicine can irritate the skin. Conditions affecting the liver, kidneys, blood, or thyroid can also cause itch, and some cancers can present with itching. Hodgkin Lymphoma is one condition in which itching may occur, but itching alone does not identify its cause.

Notice when the itch began, where it started, whether a rash appeared, and whether heat, bathing, clothing, or a product changes it. These details help a clinician decide whether to examine the skin, review medicines, or arrange blood tests.

Use a plain, fragrance-free moisturiser after bathing, keep showers lukewarm, and choose loose clothing. Avoid scratching when possible; short nails and a cool compress can reduce skin injury. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without discussing it with the prescriber. Arrange an appointment if the itch is persistent, widespread, disturbing sleep, or accompanied by unexplained tiredness, fever, or weight change.

Seek urgent help for itching with swelling of the lips or tongue, trouble breathing, faintness, or a rapidly spreading rash. Contact a clinician promptly if you develop yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe weakness, fever, drenching night sweats, or a new lump. A vulvar itch with sores, bleeding, skin thickening, or a persistent change also needs examination.

Could my medicines, skin products, or another health condition be contributing to the itch? What examination or blood tests are appropriate? Which symptoms should prompt urgent review, and what can I safely use while the cause is being assessed?