Q Is itching all over just a simple skin problem? I'm curious why it keeps getting worse.
A Itching can be a skin problem, but it may also signal a systemic disease such as kidney failure, liver disease, diabetes, or blood cancer. Without finding the cause, scratching creates a vicious cycle that makes it worse.
Detailed Answer
Itching (pruritus) is a sensation in which itch-inducing substances in the skin, such as histamine and IL-31, stimulate nerve fibers and send signals to the brain. The causes fall broadly into skin-related problems (dry skin, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, urticaria), systemic diseases (kidney failure, liver disease, diabetes, thyroid disorders, blood cancer), medication side effects, and psychological factors. In particular, when generalized itching is accompanied by weight loss, night sweats, or fever, there is a possibility of blood cancer or internal organ cancer, so a blood test is essential.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
At Dongjedang, we view itching as a signal that internal heat-toxin (yeoldok) and dampness (seup) are rising to the skin. When the function of the spleen and stomach weakens and toxins accumulate, immunity becomes hypersensitive and the skin reacts first. Rather than a prescription that merely calms the surface, we take an approach that improves the internal environment.
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