In the meantime, there are some steps you can take to help deal with the itch:
Avoid scratching or rubbing the itchy areas. Keep fingernails short to avoid skin damage from any inadvertent scratching. Family members or friends may be able to help by calling attention to your scratching.
Wear cool, light, loose bedclothes. Avoid wearing rough clothing, particularly wool, over an itchy area.
Take lukewarm baths using little soap and rinsing thoroughly. Try a skin-soothing oatmeal or cornstarch bath.
Apply a soothing lotion after bathing to soften and cool the skin.
Apply cold compresses to an itchy area.
Avoid prolonged exposure to excessive heat and humidity.
Engage in activities that distract from the itching during the day and make you tired enough to sleep at night.
Try over-the-counter oral antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), but be aware of possible side effects such as drowsiness.
Try over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream on localized itchy areas.
Call your health care provider if:
Call your provider if itching is associated with other unexplained symptoms, is severe, prolonged, or cannot be easily explained.
Most itching does not require medical evaluation. Try to rule out the obvious causes of itching.
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