Why does my whole body itch in the latter part of the night while sleeping, and what should I do about it?
Nov 28, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, experiencing body itching during the latter part of sleep may be caused by factors such as dry environment, clothing irritation, urticaria, eczema, or scabies. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, maintain appropriate indoor temperature and humidity, choose mild personal care products, and regularly clean and disinfect items in close contact with the body.
Generally, experiencing body itching during the latter part of sleep at night may be caused by dry environment, clothing irritation, urticaria, eczema, scabies, or other reasons. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Dry Environment
Dry air at night accelerates skin moisture loss, causing the stratum corneum to become dry and tight, stimulating nerve endings and triggering itching. Use a humidifier in the bedroom before sleeping, maintaining indoor humidity between 40%–60%. Apply a gentle moisturizing lotion after bathing, and avoid excessively hot water.
2. Clothing Irritation
Rough-textured or detergent-residue-laden undergarments can cause friction or mild skin irritation, leading to itching in the later hours of sleep. Switch to soft, breathable cotton undergarments, use phosphate-free detergents for washing, and ensure clothes are thoroughly dried before use.
3. Urticaria (Hives)
The body's immunity tends to be lower at night; exposure to allergens such as dust mites or bedding mites may trigger allergic reactions, resulting in skin itching accompanied by wheals. Medications such as levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets, ebastine tablets, or desloratadine dry suspension may be taken under medical guidance. Regularly sun-expose bedding to eliminate mites.
4. Eczema
Skin barrier damage combined with increased skin metabolism at night leads to greater release of inflammatory factors, worsening eczema-related itching, often accompanied by rashes and flaking. Topical treatments such as hydrocortisone butyrate cream or mometasone furoate gel may be used under a doctor’s supervision, along with oral loratadine tablets. Avoid scratching the affected areas.
5. Scabies
Sarcoptes mites are more active at night, feeding on skin tissue and excreting toxins that irritate the skin, causing intense itching. Areas such as finger webs, armpits, and skin folds are particularly susceptible. Topical medications like sulfur ointment, lindane lotion, or crotamiton cream may be applied as prescribed. Bedding and clothing should be disinfected by boiling, and close contact with others should be avoided.
In daily life, maintain appropriate indoor temperature and humidity; choose mild skin and laundry care products; regularly clean and disinfect personal items; follow a light diet and reduce intake of spicy or irritating foods; avoid scratching when itching occurs to prevent skin breaks and infection.
