A heart rate above 100 beats per minute is medically referred to as tachycardia. Normally, people do not notice their heartbeat, but when tachycardia occurs, the heart’s rapid beats can be felt. If the symptoms worsen, they can be accompanied by shortness of breath, headaches, cold sweats, and dizziness.
So, what causes the heart to beat rapidly? While it could be a temporary condition, it might also signal the early stages of certain medical conditions. It’s important to carefully read through the following information, assess your symptoms, and seek medical attention if needed.
1. Dry Skin
The first thing to check is whether your skin is excessively dry. Dry skin can feel rough to the touch and may develop flakes or, in severe cases, red patches. If dry skin is the cause, it’s essential to increase fluid intake, as dehydration often leads to dry skin.
The recommended daily water intake for adults is around 1.5 to 2 liters. Therefore, check if you are consuming an adequate amount of water. Additionally, frequent showers, prolonged baths, or excessive use of saunas can also contribute to dry skin and itching. It’s ideal to shower for no more than 10 minutes and apply a moisturizer after water exposure.
A study published in the International Journal of Dermatology found that maintaining proper hydration can help alleviate symptoms of dry skin and pruritus, especially in cold weather when moisture is depleted from the skin.
2. Psoriasis
Another common cause of itchy skin is psoriasis. This condition is characterized by red, inflamed skin with white, scaly patches. The most commonly affected areas are the knees and elbows, although it can spread to other parts of the body. Psoriasis affects about 1-2% of the population and is a chronic disease, meaning it can last for 10 years or more.
A study in The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology reported that psoriasis is often associated with significant pruritus, and in severe cases, this itching can interfere with daily life. Psoriasis is manageable, but treatment typically focuses on symptom control rather than a complete cure.
3. Dermatitis
Various forms of dermatitis can also cause itchy skin. One of the most common types is seborrheic dermatitis, which occurs when excess oil production leads to the development of a rash. This can appear in multiple areas of the body, including the scalp, causing dandruff. Other forms of dermatitis include allergic reactions, atopic dermatitis, and eczema. If dermatitis is suspected, visiting a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment.
According to The National Eczema Association, atopic dermatitis (eczema) is another leading cause of pruritus. Around 10% of children and 2-3% of adults are affected by eczema, which often causes intense itching.
4. Psychological Factors
Itchy skin can also be triggered by psychological factors. Stress, anxiety, nervousness, or anger can stimulate the central nervous system, causing the constriction of muscles and blood vessels. This temporary reduction in blood flow can result in itching. In more severe cases, it may also lead to symptoms like chest palpitations, headaches, or shortness of breath.
Research in The Journal of Clinical Psychology has shown that about 20% of individuals with chronic pruritus experience stress or psychological distress as a contributing factor. Addressing the underlying psychological issues can often help alleviate the itching.
5. Environmental Factors
Your environment can also play a role in itchy skin. If you spend a lot of time indoors, check if the humidity is too low. Ideal indoor humidity levels should be between 40-60%. If you notice itching particularly in bed, your bedding may not be clean, and washing your sheets could help.
A study in The Environmental Health Perspectives journal reported that exposure to low humidity levels, particularly during the winter months, exacerbates dry skin conditions, contributing to pruritus.
Additionally, the material of your clothing could irritate your skin, or sudden temperature changes may lead to itching. For example, moving from a cold environment to a warm one can cause discomfort. If you experience widespread itching after eating certain foods, it might be an allergic reaction.
6. Other Medical Conditions
The cause of your itching may not always be related to your skin. Conditions such as kidney dysfunction can also cause itching. The kidneys filter toxins and waste products from the blood, and when kidney function is impaired, these toxins accumulate and cause itching all over the body.
A 2020 study in The Kidney International journal found that pruritus is common in patients with end-stage kidney disease, affecting up to 50% of individuals undergoing dialysis. Other conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and restless leg syndrome can also contribute to itching. If itching is accompanied by symptoms like fever, weight loss, diarrhea, dizziness, or shortness of breath, it’s important to seek medical attention, as these could indicate a systemic issue rather than a skin problem.
Conclusion
We’ve covered several causes of itchy skin, and it’s important to check for accompanying symptoms. First, check for red spots or flakes on your skin and observe any other physical abnormalities.
If a specific underlying condition is identified, treatment can be pursued. However, if the issue is related to lifestyle or environmental factors, now is the time to address those. Start by ensuring that your clothes and bedding are clean. Drink enough water and manage indoor humidity.
During colder months or transitional weather, people often experience dry, itchy skin due to a lack of moisture in the air. In such cases, applying moisturizer can relieve symptoms. However, if you notice open sores or red patches on your skin, it’s best to consult a dermatologist first.
Itching itself is not usually a life-threatening condition, but frequent or severe itching can interfere with daily life and disrupt sleep. So, when you experience itchy skin, it’s essential to address it and seek medical attention if necessary.