What it means
The medical word is pruritusproo-RY-tusItching of the skin.Full entry . Itching comes with dry skin, allergies, insect bites, skin diseases, some drugs (opioids often cause it), liver and kidney disease, and some infections such as scabies. Scratching can break the skin and let infection in.
For the nurse
Keep nails short, use cool compresses and mild moisturizers, and avoid hot water and harsh soaps. Give antihistamines as ordered and report itching with hives, swelling or trouble breathing.
At a glance
| Spanish | picazón, prurito |
|---|---|
| Also written | itchy |
Related terms
allergy
A reaction of the immune system to a substance that is harmless to most people.
hypersensitivity
An overreaction of the immune system to a substance that is usually harmless.
wheal
A raised, red or pale, itchy bump on the skin that comes and goes; a single hive.