After returning to the dormitory for the start of school, I feel itchy when sleeping on the bed. What could be causing this, and what should I do?

Generally, returning to the dormitory at the start of the school term and experiencing itchy skin while sleeping in bed may be related to unclean bedding, dry skin, dust mite allergy, eczema, or contact dermatitis. Targeted measures can be taken accordingly. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment. Specific causes are as follows:

1. Unclean Bedding

Unclean bedding may lead to the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and dust mites, which can irritate the skin and trigger allergic reactions. Replacing bedding with clean, disinfected items can help alleviate these discomforts.

2. Dry Skin

Dry indoor air in dormitories, frequent bathing, or the use of irritating bath products may cause dry skin. The skin may become dry, tight, flaky, and itchy. Applying body lotion regularly can moisturize and hydrate the skin.

3. Dust Mite Allergy

Dust mites commonly reside in beds, mattresses, pillows, and other bedding materials. Proteins found in their feces and dead bodies may trigger allergic reactions, leading to skin itching. Other allergic symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose may also occur simultaneously. Symptoms can be relieved with medications such as promethazine hydrochloride tablets, ketotifen fumarate capsules, or cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, as advised by a physician.

4. Eczema

Eczema is a type of skin disorder. Affected individuals may develop skin lesions characterized by redness, blisters, and erosion, accompanied by intense itching. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as prednisone acetate cream, Binghuang Fule ointment, or Chushi Zhiyang ointment to relieve symptoms.

5. Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a skin inflammation caused by exposure to irritating substances, possibly triggered by certain components in bedding materials. Symptoms may include redness, blisters, and itching. This condition typically occurs on areas of skin that have directly contacted the allergen. Relief can be obtained under medical guidance using calamine lotion, mupirocin ointment, or compound dexamethasone cream.

In daily life, maintaining personal hygiene—such as bathing regularly and frequently changing clothes and bed sheets—can contribute to healthy skin.