What causes red bumps on the body that become itchier when scratched?

Apr 20, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
身上起红疙瘩越挠越痒可能是受到蚊虫叮咬,唾液进入人体后会产生变态反应,出现瘙痒红肿等现象。接触了某些过敏食物或者花粉、虫螨等过敏原,会导致毛细血管过度扩张。真皮浅层以及表皮可能会出现炎症性病变,会表现出丘疹、瘙痒、抓挠破溃等情况。

Red bumps appearing on the body that become itchier when scratched may be caused by physiological factors, or could result from allergies, eczema, and other conditions. The specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Physiological Causes

If the skin is not properly protected and gets bitten by insects, their saliva entering the body can trigger an allergic reaction, leading to symptoms such as itching and swelling. If there are no other physical discomforts, this is usually considered normal and can be relieved by applying medicated oils or insect repellents like cooling oil or floral water.

2. Pathological Causes

1) Allergy

In individuals with sensitive constitutions, exposure to certain allergens—such as specific foods, pollen, or mites—can cause excessive dilation of capillaries, triggering an immune response. This may lead to symptoms including itching, rashes (papules), and runny nose. Under a doctor's guidance, antihistamine medications such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets or loratadine capsules may be used for relief.

2) Eczema

When affected by external substances, patients may develop inflammatory changes in the epidermis and superficial dermis, manifesting as papules, intense itching, and skin damage from scratching. Treatment may involve corticosteroid medications as prescribed by a physician, such as methylprednisolone tablets or hydrocortisone cream.

Besides the above common causes, conditions such as diabetes may also be responsible. If symptoms are severe, prompt medical evaluation is necessary.