The Secret Behind the Itch: Pruritus

The Secret Behind the Itch: Pruritus

 

Our skin can be an important indicator as a reflection of our health. Symptoms such as itching can indicate problems affecting our skin health. In this article, we will explore the most common causes of itching, known as “pruritus”, and the necessary laboratory tests.

 

Pruritus Nedir?

Pruritus, basitçe kaşıntı anlamına gelir. Kaşıntı, deri üzerinde rahatsızlık hissi ile karakterizedir ve cildin çeşitli bölgelerinde ortaya çıkabilir. Pruritus, bir semptom olabilir veya başlı başına bir deri sorunu olarak ortaya çıkabilir.

 

Most Common Causes of Pruritus:

 

1. 1. 1. Dry Skin: Especially during the cold winter months or low humidity levels, the skin can become dry and itchy.
   1. 1. Skin Diseases: Skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis can cause itching.
   1. 1. Allergies Exposure to substances to which the skin reacts allergically can cause itching.
   1. 1. Medicines Some medications can cause itching; therefore, itching after starting a new medication should be taken into account.
   1. 1. Liver and Kidney Problems: Organ failures can cause toxin accumulation in the body and lead to itching.
   1. 1. Hematologic Problems: Diseases such as anemia and lymphoma can cause itching.
   1. Thyroid Diseases: Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can also cause itching.

 

Laboratory Tests Required for Pruritus:

 

It is not essential in acute situations, but may be indicated in cases with prolonged symptoms.

 

1. 1. 1. Blood Tests General blood tests such as liver function tests, kidney function tests and complete blood count can assess potential health problems.
   1. 1. Allergy Tests: Allergy tests can be performed to identify substances that cause allergic reactions on the skin.
   1. 1. Biopsy: A skin biopsy can be used to evaluate skin abnormalities and diseases.
   1. 1. Immunological Tests: Immunologic tests can be performed to identify problems with the immune system.
   1. Microbiological Tests: Tests to evaluate infections or microbiological problems on the skin.

 

Interesting Aspects of Pruritus:

 

1. 1. Collective Itch Phenomenon:

 

1. 1. An interesting phenomenon observed among people is the phenomenon of “collective itch”, which refers to the itchiness of one person that causes others to feel itchy as well. This can be a psychological effect.

 

2. 2. Increased itching at night:

 

2. 2. Some types of pruritus may increase at night. This may be related to an increase in body temperature and a change in skin sensation.

 

3. 3. That itching is actually a painful sensation:

 

3. 3. Some research suggests that itching is actually a painful sensation and that the two sensations share similar neural pathways.

Pruritus can be an important signal to draw attention to your skin health. However, it is critical to seek help from a specialized dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Do not neglect regular dermatologic check-ups for healthy skin.