Atlanta Center for Dermatology is here to help if you are dealing with itchy skin. Our team of doctors is dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care. We can help treat you to get your skin looking and feeling better. Keep reading about conditions that cause itchy skin and come see us if you have itchy skin in Atlanta, GA.

Itchy Skin

Itchy skin can be unsightly, embarrassing, and so hard not to scratch! But when your skin is irritated you need to keep your hands off to prevent spreading bacteria and keep your skin from getting infected. If you're suffering from itchy skin, there are a few common causes and some other conditions it can be traced back to. Resist the urge to scratch and make an appointment with your dermatologist.

Hives

Hives are itchy welts that can occur anywhere on the skin. They vary in size and can even connect to form larger hives. Hives are often the result of an allergic reaction and may clear up on their own. If you have hives lasting longer than six weeks, this is considered chronic and you should see a doctor.

Bed bugs

Bedbug bites can leave itchy welts on the skin. These tiny insects like to hide in a mattress, headboard, or couch and come out to feed while you are asleep. Getting rid of bedbugs can be difficult and will probably involve a professional pest control company and several treatments to make sure they are eradicated.

Poison Ivy

Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are all dangerous to humans. An oil in all of these plants called urushiol is poisonous to the skin and produces a very itchy rash. If you have a severe reaction there will be swelling, and if you have trouble breathing or swallowing, you should go to the emergency room.

Other medical conditions that can cause itching are varied. They can include liver disease, kidney failure, iron deficiency anemia, thyroid problems, and certain cancers like leukemia and lymphoma. In these cases, your skin appears normal but itches all over.

Itchy skin is bothersome and usually a symptom of something else, so come see a doctor at Atlanta Center for Dermatology for diagnosis and treatment. Contact us to treat your itchy skin in Atlanta, GA, at (404) 252-4333. Contact our Alpharetta, GA location at (770) 664-5225, our Cumming, GA location at (770) 844-1902, and our Roswell, GA location at (770) 751-1133.