Itchy Palms

We often see people vigorously scratching their palms in desperation to get relief. Many people believe that palms becoming itchy is a sign of good fortune and luck. However, this is only a superstition and there is no scientific backing to this belief. On a serious note, palms becoming itchy is annoying and associated with a wide range of skin problems. It is discussed below:

Detergents that are used for washing clothes and utensils, normally contain harsh chemicals. When your hands come in contact with these detergents, the skin is likely to become itchy. The irritant can also be the antibacterial soap that one uses to wash hands daily.

These irritants cause persistent itchiness and may even lead to skin discoloration. Itchy palms and no rash is common in people exposed to detergents.

A skin infection caused by the invasion of bacteria or fungus, can also cause itching on the palms. The fungus that generally affects the skin is Candida albicans. There is formation of purple patches on the skin, that produce a strong itchy sensation.

Blisters may also be present near these itchy patches. Bacterial infection generally appear as red itchy bumps on the skin.

Dry skin that is common during winter season causes terrible itching. Cold winds blowing in winter can suck the moisture out of your skin, leaving it dry and itchy. Itchy skin is more common among the elderly. This happens because with age, the skin is unable to produce natural oil (sebum) in sufficient amounts.

As we all know, sebum prevents the skin from becoming dry. However, due to shortage of sebum, the skin loses its moisture, eventually making it dry and itchy.

Itchy palms that distinctly show a rash can also indicate scabies. Caused by the invasion of the mite Sarcoptes scabiei, the scabies rash typically produces red papules on the affected area. This is a tiny 8 legged mite that makes holes into the skin and stays just beneath the topmost layer. Unlike other skin rashes, scabies rash makes a zigzag pattern along the lines of burrowing.

Anything taken in excess is not good for health and this also holds true for vitamin B6. People taking vitamin B6 supplements in excess amounts, are likely to experience itchy sensation that normally affects the palms. Keep in mind that overcoming vitamin B6 deficiency doesn't mean taking too much of multivitamin supplements.

Intake of certain medications can bring side effects in the form of itchy palms and no rash. Ibuprofen, regarded as an effective painkiller, can bring this unpleasant sensation on the palms.

This is yet another skin problem that makes the palms itchy, but surprisingly there is no rash. Pruritus that shows no rash is often the result of allergic reaction to medicines or underlying conditions such as kidney failure, thyroid problems, and liver diseases (jaundice or hepatitis).

Finding out the underlying cause is the key to get rid of itchy sensation on the palms. In case skin irritants are the culprits, then staying away from them or using gloves when handling these irritants, can definitely help to keep itching at bay. On the other hand, application of topical antifungal agents is the standard treatment for fungal infection.

An easy home remedy to relieve itchiness is to apply lemon juice. Many people squeeze fresh lemon on the affected area and get instant relief. To relieve intense itching that accompanies scabies, patients are often asked to use topical ointments such as Permethrin, Lindane, and Eurax.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this story is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.