What does fact checked mean?
At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
- MedlinePlus: Itching
- MedlinePlus: Allergies
- MayoClinic.com: Itchy Skin
- FamilyDoctor.org: Antihistamines
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
Antihistamines & Itchy Skin With No Rash
Antihistamines are designed to help block an allergic reaction whether it’s on your skin or within your body, such as your nasal cavity or sinuses 4. When you have an allergic reaction to something, you won’t always develop a skin rash to accompany the signs or symptoms of an allergic reaction. If you develop itchy skin without a rash that does not respond well to antihistamines, let your doctor know 4.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines help reduce allergy symptoms such as itchy skin, watery eyes, sneezing and runny nose 4. They can also help decrease allergic skin reactions that do cause a rash, but they will work even if a rash is not present. Antihistamines are available with or without a prescription, depending upon strength, and can have side effects such as blurry vision, dry mouth and drowsiness 4. Antihistamines should not be used with other medications, such as antibiotics 4. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if it’s safe to take an antihistamine with other medications that you might take.
Itchy Skin Without Rash
How to Soothe an Allergic Reaction to Face Lotion
Learn More
It’s possible to have itchy skin without a rash. Itchy skin is also known as pruritus, which is an uncomfortable, irritating skin condition that causes irresistible scratching. MayoClinic.com notes that itchy skin can have hundreds of various possible causes, so it may be hard to determine the exact cause 3. Sometimes internal diseases can cause itchy skin, such as renal failure or liver disease. Flushing, usually caused by consuming too much niacin, can cause you to have itchy skin. Certain allergic reactions can cause:
- you to have itching of the nose
- mouth
- throat
- eyes
- skin
- other areas of your body without a rash
- It’s possible to have itchy skin without a rash.
- Itchy skin is also known as pruritus, which is an uncomfortable, irritating skin condition that causes irresistible scratching.
Remedies
Aside from antihistamines to help ease the itching and discomfort associated with an allergic reaction, you can try some home remedies too 4. Avoid scratching the area that itches. If there is an allergic substance on your skin, scratching can spread the substance to other areas of your body and it can become trapped under your fingernails. Wear loose-fitting articles of clothing and apply a cold compress to the itchy area. Lukewarm baths can help ease the itching and discomfort, especially if you use cornstarch or a skin-soothing oatmeal in the bath. If you suffer from dry, itchy skin due to inclement weather, moisturizer can help rejuvenate and heal skin. Topical hydrocortisone, which can be purchased over the counter, may also help ease itching and discomfort.
- Aside from antihistamines to help ease the itching and discomfort associated with an allergic reaction, you can try some home remedies too 4.
- Lukewarm baths can help ease the itching and discomfort, especially if you use cornstarch or a skin-soothing oatmeal in the bath.
Considerations
How to Get Rid of an Allergic Reaction Rash
Learn More
If you have an itchy patch of skin and antihistamines do not help, your doctor can run a series of tests and help you determine if you’re allergic to something within your home or office 4. Examine the area to determine if there is a bug bite, sting or other possible causes of the itching. If the itching is persistent and a rash develops after taking an antihistamine, you could be having a severe allergic reaction. A severe allergic reaction requires prompt medical attention.
- If you have an itchy patch of skin and antihistamines do not help, your doctor can run a series of tests and help you determine if you’re allergic to something within your home or office 4.
Related Articles
References
- MedlinePlus: Itching
- MedlinePlus: Allergies
- MayoClinic.com: Itchy Skin
- FamilyDoctor.org: Antihistamines
- Ratliff JC, Barber JA, Palmese LB, Reutenauer EL, Tek C. Association of prescription H1 antihistamine use with obesity: results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2010;18(12):2398-400. doi:10.1038/oby.2010.176
- Couluris M, Mayer J, Freyer D, Sandler E, Xu P, Krischer J. The effect of cyproheptadine hydrochloride (Periactin) and megestrol acetate (Megace) on weight in children with cancer/ treatment-related cachexia. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol. 2008 November; 30(11): 791-797. doi:10.1097/MPH.0b013e3181864a5e
Writer Bio
Derek Buckner has been writing professionally since 2005, specializing in diet, nutrition and general health. He has been published in "Today's Dietitian," "Food Essentials" and "Eating Well Magazine," among others. Buckner is a registered dietitian and holds a Bachelor of Science in nutrition and food science from Drexel University.