Dealing with the Itch 

Targeting symptoms and the cause of the itch are key to treating itchy skin. Less severe symptoms may be treated with over-the-counter topical creams to return moisture to the skin and alleviate the itchy feelings. More severe conditions, however, may require a different treatment strategy. Treating the root cause of the itch is often the best route. If medication causes the problem, then changing medications may be in order. If the itch is due to a medical condition, controlling the symptoms of the disease may do the trick. Also do your best to stay hydrated, moisturized and out of the sun to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy. 

Determining the causes of your itchy skin may require seeing your doctor. Your physician may ask about the severity of symptoms, other symptoms you've experienced and even any possible triggers that could help indicate the source of the problem. 

As research continues and experts from various medical fields come together to discuss the possible causes of itchiness, new treatment plans can be developed to help patients overcome annoying itchy skin without having to scratch all day, which potentially could break the skin and put the patient at risk for infection.