What causes hard lumps and itching on the body?

In general, the appearance of hard lumps accompanied by itching on the body may be caused by mosquito or insect bites, dry skin irritation, prurigo nodularis, urticaria, or dermatofibroma with inflammation. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Mosquito or insect bites: After an insect bite, the insect's saliva irritates the skin, triggering a localized inflammatory response that forms a hard lump accompanied by significant itching. Avoid scratching to prevent infection. Wash the area with soapy water to relieve discomfort, or apply calamine lotion gently, keeping the affected area clean and dry.

2. Dry skin irritation: In dry climates or when skin moisture is inadequate, the skin barrier becomes compromised and more susceptible to external irritants, leading to hard lumps accompanied by dryness and itching. After daily bathing with lukewarm water, apply a ceramide-containing moisturizer. Use mild shower gels and avoid strong alkaline cleansers.

3. Prurigo nodularis: Triggered by factors such as high stress levels or repeated friction, this condition causes pea-sized hard nodules on the skin, accompanied by intense, persistent, and recurrent itching. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as desonide cream, mometasone furoate cream, or cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, minimize scratching, and maintain a positive mood.

4. Urticaria: Caused by exposure to allergens or infections, some types of urticaria can present with firm wheals accompanied by itching. Patients should take antihistamines such as loratadine capsules, ebastine tablets, or topical hydrocortisone butyrate cream as prescribed, and avoid confirmed allergens completely.

5. Dermatofibroma with inflammation: A benign tumor formed by fibrous tissue proliferation in the skin; secondary inflammation leads to hard, itchy lumps that feel firm upon touch. Patients may use mupirocin ointment, fusidic acid cream, or cefuroxime axetil tablets as directed by a physician to control inflammation.

In daily life, wear loose, breathable cotton clothing to reduce skin friction. Maintain a light diet, avoiding spicy, irritating foods and common allergens such as seafood. Keep a regular sleep schedule and engage in moderate exercise to enhance immunity, which helps resolve skin inflammation and restore the skin barrier.