Can dampness cause itchy skin?
Disease description:
Recently, I've been feeling itchy skin without any apparent reason, especially on the arms and legs. There are no rashes, but I can't help scratching. I heard that this may be caused by excessive dampness in the body—is that true?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
In general, excessive dampness in the body may cause skin itching.
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, dampness primarily originates from improper diet, a humid living environment, or internal metabolic imbalances. When dampness becomes excessive, it may combine with heat to form damp-heat. Damp-heat accumulating in the skin can lead to symptoms such as skin itching, eczema, and acne.
From the perspective of Western medicine, excessive dampness might reflect abnormal water metabolism in the body, such as poor kidney function or impaired lymphatic circulation. These conditions can also trigger dry, itchy skin and other similar symptoms. Additionally, prolonged exposure to a high-humidity environment may disrupt the normal balance of skin flora, increasing the risk of infection and further worsening skin conditions. Treatment should involve removing dampness according to the patient's specific syndrome type and relieving itching according to its severity. It is recommended that treatment be conducted under the guidance of a qualified physician.
Patients should pay attention to adjusting their diet and lifestyle habits in daily life, such as reducing the use of bathing products, avoiding scratching or other irritations, and limiting intake of sweets and spicy foods to prevent exacerbating dampness. At the same time, engaging in appropriate physical exercise to promote sweating can also help eliminate dampness.
