Chronic itching on any part of the body can be distressing to a person. Itching palms can be particularly troublesome because the hands are used for so many activities of daily living. There are many potential causes for palm itching, including infection, allergic reactions, and vitamin deficiencies. Treatment options often vary depending upon the cause of the itch, but over-the-counter creams and ointments can often help to relieve the symptoms of itching palms.
Contact dermatitis, also referred to as eczema, is a common cause of itching palms. While the exact cause of eczema is unknown, it is believed to have both hereditary and environmental components. Common symptoms include a red, itchy rash that may sometimes form blisters. Allergies or sensitivities to various foods or chemicals may also cause an eczema outbreak. A dermatologist who specializes in the treatment of skin disorders should be consulted for appropriate treatment options.
Skin infections involving the hands may cause palms to itch. In some cases, an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment may be able to cure the infection. If the infection does not respond to this type of treatment, a doctor should be consulted in order to determine if oral antibiotics or other forms of treatment are more appropriate.
Stress can often cause widespread itching or hives. It is best to see a doctor to rule out other possible causes for the itching. If no other causes can be found, a person may benefit from learning relaxation techniques to avoid future outbreaks.
Many patients who experience persistent itching palms should consider adding vitamin B to the diet. Frequently, a deficiency in some of the B vitamins may cause itching. These vitamin supplements are available over the counter at most drug stores. A doctor can perform the necessary laboratory tests to determine if the patient is deficient in any of these vitamins.
Those with itching palms that do not respond to over-the-counter anti-itch creams should consult a doctor in order to rule out serious health conditions. Medical issues such as kidney or liver disease often cause itching. Blood disorders and thyroid dysfunction are also known causes of itching palms. Simple blood tests can often diagnose health problems before they become severe enough to cause significant damage to the various organs of the body. Many people do not realize that something as seemingly innocent as an itch could signify a serious medical condition, making frequent check-ups by a doctor vitally important.