There are hundreds of things that cause us to itch uncontrollably, but recent research claims that we should be blaming one newly discovered nerve receptor called MrgprA3. Its only job appears to be to make us itch. So annoying!
Still, we can't forget to address the origin of the itch that's setting the nerve receptor off in the first place. Here, six sneaky culprits behind chronic itching …
What kind of itch do you suffer from most often?
- Image via iStock*
Mosquito bites
As much as I love warm weather, I despise mosquito season. These blood suckers aren't nearly as hot as Alexander Skarsgard or Robert Pattinson and can leave you itching all summer long.
Anything that alters hormones
Anytime hormones are at play, skin and senses could be affected. Some women report itchy episodes thanks to birth control pills or other forms of hormone replacement. Still, natural levels of hormones — especially low estrogen after menopause — can leave us with chronically dry, itchy skin, too.
Poison ivy
Whether we're hiking around or just hanging out gardening in our own backyards, poison ivy can strike when we least expect it and cause us to break out in a weepy, itchy-as-heck rash.
Pregnancy
Obviously one of the most intense times of hormonal flux is pregnancy, and as a result, lots of women experience perpetual itchiness from head to toe.
Cleaning chemicals
If your skin's super-sensitive, you might be allergic to all sorts of chemicals and detergents. Get me around the wrong, non-hypoallergenic one, and it's itch city!
An overly acidic diet
Highly processed foods — like anything with white sugar — can have an acid-forming effect on your system that causes chronic itching. Additionally, when in acidosis, you are more likely to suffer dry cracked skin, brittle fingernails, and dull hair that breaks easily. Yeesh, even more reason to try to eat a balanced diet!
