Itching, or pruritus, is an unpleasant skin sensation that leads affected individuals to scratch, rub, or apply pressure to their skin.
Pruritus should be regarded as the skin’s warning signal in response to changes in external or internal conditions. It may be caused by various mechanical, physical, or chemical factors and can occur locally on a specific area of the skin or affect the entire body.
Itching triggers the urge to scratch. The pain caused by scratching reduces the sensation of itching, which can temporarily provide a feeling of relief. However, scratching further irritates the skin and, in turn, increases the itching. An itch–scratch cycle develops. Itchy skin may also be perceived as tingling or slight pain.
