What causes whole-body itching every night before sleep?

In general, generalized itching before bedtime each night may be caused by various factors, including temperature changes, dry skin, neurodermatitis, urticaria, diabetes, and others. If abnormal symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to identify the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Temperature Changes

Moving from a warm environment into a colder one, or experiencing a drop in nighttime temperatures, can affect skin microcirculation and nerve endings, increasing skin sensitivity and causing itching. This sensation is usually most noticeable when exposed to temperature differences and typically does not accompany other discomforts. To minimize this, maintain a small temperature difference between indoor and outdoor environments, wear breathable and sweat-absorbing clothing, and avoid sudden temperature changes that could irritate the skin.

2. Dry Skin

After evening bathing, skin moisture evaporates, especially in winter or air-conditioned environments, making the skin prone to dryness. This reduces natural oils on the skin surface, impairing the skin's barrier function and triggering itching, often accompanied by flaking and tightness. It is recommended to use mild, non-irritating moisturizing lotions or creams, particularly immediately after bathing, to help lock in moisture. Additionally, maintaining appropriate indoor humidity levels—such as with a humidifier—is beneficial.

3. Neurodermatitis

Neurodermatitis is a skin condition closely related to psychological factors and may lead to generalized itching. As the mind relaxes before sleep, the sensation of itching may become more pronounced. Besides itching, symptoms may include redness, swelling, and papules. Doctors recommend first adjusting mental state and avoiding excessive tension and anxiety in treating neurodermatitis. Topical medications such as mometasone furoate cream, fluticasone propionate cream, or hydrocortisone butyrate cream may also be used under medical guidance for symptomatic relief.

4. Urticaria

The pathogenesis of urticaria involves abnormal immune system responses. When the body encounters an allergen, the immune system releases inflammatory mediators such as histamine, leading to blood vessel dilation and increased permeability, which results in skin symptoms like redness, swelling, and hives. Doctors generally recommend treating urticaria with antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine tablets, loratadine tablets), corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone ointment, hydrocortisone cream), and sometimes immunosuppressants. Avoiding exposure to known allergens is also essential.

5. Diabetes

Patients with diabetes—caused by genetic factors, endocrine disorders, or long-term unhealthy habits—may experience damage to peripheral nerve endings if blood glucose levels are poorly controlled, leading to generalized itching, dry skin, flaking, and increased risk of infection. Managing diabetes requires maintaining blood glucose within normal ranges through dietary control, regular physical activity, and, under medical supervision, oral medications such as metformin hydrochloride tablets, gliclazide modified-release tablets, or repaglinide tablets. For symptomatic relief of skin itching, topical treatments such as calamine lotion or triamcinolone acetonide cream may be used as directed by a physician.

In daily life, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, improving dietary habits, adhering to regular作息 (sleep-wake cycles), and enhancing overall physical health can help reduce susceptibility to disease.