Pruritus is the medical term for itchy skin. It’s uncomfortable, irritating and makes you want to scratch. Anyone can get pruritus, but certain groups of people are more susceptible to the condition, including:
You may have itchy skin over certain small areas, such as on an arm or leg, or over your whole body. Itchy skin can occur without any other noticeable changes on the skin. Or it may be associated with:
Sometimes itchiness lasts a long time and can be intense. Chronic pruritus (CP) refers to daily/almost daily itching, lasting more than 6 weeks.
Many people find relief with self-care measures such as moisturizing daily, using gentle cleansers and bathing with lukewarm water. Long-term relief requires identifying and treating the cause of itchy skin. Common treatments are medicated lotions, moist dressings and oral anti-itch medicines.
However, if you’ve experienced ongoing pruritus for at least 6 months and it’s unresponsive to prior treatment with emollients, then you may be eligible for a clinical study for an investigational topical application that accelerates its resolution. Participants may be compensated for their time and travel. To get started, find out if you qualify by completing our online volunteer form.