Itching (Pruritus)
Finding relief through integrative medicine and root cause investigation
Itching (Pruritus) - Key Facts
Also Known As
Pruritus, skin itching, itchiness
Medical Category
Dermatological - Skin Sensations
ICD-10 Code
L29.9 (Pruritus, unspecified)
How Common
Affects up to 25% of population
Affected System
Nervous System, Skin, Internal Organs
Urgency Level
Routine (with urgent red flags)
Healers Clinic Services
- Functional Medicine Consultation
- Allergy Testing
- Liver Function Assessment
- Homeopathic Treatment
30-Second Summary
Itching (pruritus) is an uncomfortable sensation that triggers scratching. While often caused by skin conditions, it can indicate internal diseases, allergies, or neurological issues. At Healers Clinic, we investigate the root causes of chronic itching through comprehensive functional medicine testing, addressing liver health, gut function, allergies, and hormonal factors for lasting relief.
Definition & Medical Terminology
Formal Medical Definition
Pruritus (itching) is an uncomfortable sensation that triggers the desire to scratch. It is a complex neurological response involving nerve fibers in the skin, inflammatory mediators, and the central nervous system. Itching can be caused by skin conditions, systemic diseases, neurological disorders, psychological factors, or external irritants.
Types of Pruritus
By Origin
- Dermatoses - Skin disease related
- Systemic - Internal organ disease
- Neuropathic - Nerve damage
- Psychogenic - Psychological cause
By Duration
- Acute - Less than 6 weeks
- Chronic - More than 6 weeks
- Paroxysmal - Episodic attacks
- Persistent - Constant sensation
Causes & Root Factors
Common Causes
Skin Conditions
Eczema, psoriasis, hives, dermatitis
Systemic Diseases
Liver disease, kidney disease, thyroid disorders
Allergies
Food, environmental, contact allergens
Healers Clinic Root Cause Perspective
At Healers Clinic, we view chronic itching as a symptom of internal imbalance. Our approach investigates:
- Liver function and detoxification capacity
- Gut health and intestinal permeability
- Food allergies and sensitivities
- Hormonal imbalances affecting skin
Assessment & Diagnostics
Our Diagnostic Approach
Comprehensive Allergy Panel
IgE food allergies, contact allergens, environmental
Liver Function Tests
ALT, AST, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase
Kidney Function
BUN, creatinine, GFR
Thyroid Function
TSH, T3, T4
Iron Studies
Ferritin, iron, TIBC
NLS Bio-Resonance
Non-invasive energetic assessment
Syndrome Cluster
Itching often occurs with:
Integrative Treatment
Functional Medicine Protocol
Identify and treat root causes
Homeopathic Treatment
Individualized remedies for itching
Ayurvedic Detoxification
Panchakarma to eliminate toxins
Nutritional Support
Dietary modifications and supplements
When to Seek Help
Itching with jaundice (yellow skin/eyes), dark urine, or pale stools
Seek immediate medical care - possible liver disease
Severe itching with unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or fever
Urgent evaluation for malignancy or systemic disease
Chronic itching lasting more than 6 weeks without clear cause
Schedule comprehensive systemic evaluation
Find Relief from Chronic Itching
Our integrative team will identify the root cause and provide lasting relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1.What is the difference between itching and pain?
Itching and pain share neural pathways but are distinct sensations. Itching triggers the scratch reflex, while pain causes avoidance behavior. Both can coexist - some conditions cause both itching and pain.
Q2.Why does itching worsen at night?
Itching often worsens at night due to reduced distractions, increased skin blood flow, and elevated body temperature. Cortisol levels also naturally drop at night, which can increase inflammation.
Q3.Can stress cause itching?
Yes, stress can cause or worsen itching through multiple mechanisms including releasing inflammatory cytokines, triggering histamine release, and exacerbating conditions like eczema.
Q4.When should I see a doctor for itching?
See a doctor if itching persists more than 2 weeks, is severe, is accompanied by other symptoms (rash, weight loss, fever), or affects sleep and daily life.
Q5.Can liver problems cause itching?
Yes, liver diseases can cause pruritus due to bile salt accumulation in the skin. This type of itching often worsens at night and may affect the palms and soles.
Q6.How is chronic itching treated functionally?
Functional medicine treatment addresses root causes through comprehensive testing, dietary modifications, liver support, gut healing, and stress management.
Find Relief from Itching
Let us help you identify the root cause and achieve lasting comfort.
St. 15, Al Wasl Road, Jumeira 2, Dubai, UAE