Anxiety may show psychological symptoms but it may also cause some physical signs. It is common for people with anxiety to experience itching. This sensation can be felt anywhere on the body, including the arms, legs, face, and scalp. It can be a vicious circle that some people find difficult to manage. If the strange relationship between anxiety and itching is bothering you too, you need to understand how the two conditions are connected.

What is anxiety itching?

“Anxiety itching, often referred to as psychogenic itching, is a type of itchiness that is triggered or exacerbated by emotional or psychological stress rather than a physical cause,” says psychiatrist and psychotherapist Dr Jyoti Kapoor. According to a study published in the Neuroscience Biobehavioral Reviews, itching and anxiety often go hand-in-hand. When someone feels stressed or anxious, the itch can get worse, and the more they itch, the more anxious they become. This can create a never-ending cycle that makes it difficult to manage. Interestingly, this happens to people with different types of itchy skin conditions; even those without skin problems can experience this. Our brains play a big part in how we feel itchy when stressed.

Anxiety can be worrisome and can cause physical symptoms as well. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

How does anxiety cause itching?

The following are the most common causes of anxiety-itching, as explained by the expert.

1. Release stress hormones

When you experience anxiety, your body's stress response is activated. This triggers the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can affect your skin and its sensory nerves, potentially leading to itching sensations.

2. Sensitive nerve

Anxiety can heighten the sensitivity of nerve endings in the skin. This increased sensitivity can make normally benign stimuli feel irritating or itchy. The body's stress response can amplify the perception of itchiness, even in the absence of a physical cause.

3. Skin problems

Chronic stress and anxiety can impair the skin’s barrier function, making it more susceptible to skin irritation and dryness. When the skin becomes dry or compromised, it can lead to an itchy sensation.

4. Psychological factors

Anxiety often involves heightened awareness and focus on bodily sensations. This increased attention can make normal, minor skin sensations feel more intense and bothersome. For instance, when you are anxious, you might become more aware of slight itches that you would otherwise ignore.

How to identify itching caused by anxiety?

Here are some easy ways to identify itching caused by anxiety, as suggested by the expert.

1. Observe if the itching intensifies during stressful or anxious situations. For example, it might occur during or after a stressful event or when experiencing high levels of worry.

2. Reflect on whether the itching seems to become more noticeable when you are focusing on bodily sensations or feeling anxious.

3. Keep a diary of when the itching occurs, noting any corresponding anxiety levels, stressors, or triggers. Patterns of itching related to anxious situations may help in identifying the cause.

How to treat anxiety itching?

Treating anxiety-induced itching involves addressing both the psychological and physical aspects of the condition. Here are some ways to treat anxiety itching, as recommended by the expert.

1. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) assists patients understand and change negative thought patterns and behaviours. It helps prevent stress, reduce anxiety and improve overall mental well-being, as found in a study published in BioPsychoSocial Medicine.

2. Anti-anxiety medications

In some cases, medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed by a doctor.

3. Practise physical activity

Practices such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can reduce anxiety levels and help mitigate associated itching. A study published in the International Journal of Yoga found that regular yoga increases focus, reduces stress and anxiety, and boosts general mental health.

4. Follow a healthy lifestyle

Getting adequate sleep, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding excessive caffeine or alcohol can contribute to overall well-being and reduce stress. Thus, it is advisable to get a peaceful sleep of 8 hours every night and always have a balanced diet by incorporating all the essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Also, if you regularly consume caffeine and alcohol, reduce it as soon as possible.

Eat healthy can help soothe anxiety. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

5. Distract yourself

Scratching can worsen itching and lead to skin damage. Use distraction techniques or engage in activities that keep your hands busy.

When should you see a doctor?

Deciding when to see a doctor for anxiety-induced itching involves assessing the severity, duration, and impact of the symptoms. Here are key indicators that suggest it is time to seek medical advice:

1. If the itching is chronic and does not improve with self-care measures or is worsening over time.

2. When the itching is severe enough to interfere with daily activities, sleep, or quality of life.

3. You experience other symptoms such as severe skin irritation, signs of infection such as redness, swelling, pus, or systemic symptoms such as fever and sudden weight loss.

Excessive itching without a cause may indicate another health issue. If this happens, see a doctor immediately for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Read Also: Rashes may be common during monsoon: Here is how to deal with them