Why does the area around my abdomen itch every night, and what should I do about it?

Itching around the abdomen at night may be caused by dry skin, clothing irritation, eczema, urticaria, or contact dermatitis. Symptoms can be improved through moisturizing care, changing clothes, or medical treatment. If itching worsens or is accompanied by rashes, redness, or swelling, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Dry skin: At night, dry air causes rapid moisture loss from abdominal skin, leading to dehydration of the stratum corneum and resulting in itching, typically without visible rashes. It is recommended to apply a gentle moisturizing lotion immediately after bathing, maintain indoor humidity, and reduce both bathing frequency and water temperature.

2. Clothing irritation: Wearing synthetic or tight-fitting clothes may cause friction against the abdominal skin or trigger allergic reactions during sleep, leading to itching, sometimes accompanied by mild redness. It is advised to switch to loose cotton clothing, avoid using irritating detergents when washing, and ensure clothes are thoroughly rinsed.

3. Eczema: Skin inflammation triggered by genetic or environmental factors tends to worsen at night due to increased nerve sensitivity, with symptoms such as redness, papules, and flaking on the abdomen. Under medical guidance, patients may use calamine lotion, desonide cream, loratadine syrup, or similar medications to relieve symptoms.

4. Urticaria: Allergies or infections can induce mucocutaneous edema, often flaring up at night. This condition presents as wheals of varying sizes on the abdomen, causing intense itching that resolves quickly. Patients may take cetirizine drops, levocetirizine hydrochloride oral solution, hydrocortisone butyrate cream, or similar medications under medical supervision to alleviate discomfort.

5. Contact dermatitis: Exposure of the abdomen to allergens such as metal buttons or skincare products triggers localized inflammation, with prominent nighttime itching accompanied by erythema, papules, or even blisters. As directed by a physician, patients may use mupirocin ointment, mometasone furoate cream, loratadine granules, or similar treatments to improve symptoms.

After bathing, promptly moisturize the abdominal skin, choose breathable cotton clothing, avoid scratching itchy areas, eat a light diet avoiding spicy or allergenic foods, and keep indoor spaces clean and well-ventilated to minimize exposure to environmental allergens.