SYMPTOM
Itchy skin at night refers to an intense urge to scratch your skin that seems to flare up when you're trying to sleep. This common issue can be triggered by dry skin, allergic reactions, or even a natural dip in body temperature at night, making you more aware of the itch when distractions are gone.
For general awareness only. This is not medical advice. If symptoms are severe or persistent, consult a healthcare professional.
Showing 9 causes
Eczema flare
Inflammation releases chemicals that irritate nerve endings. Your body's natural rhythms could make this itch worse when you're trying to sleep.
Scabies
Tiny mites burrow into your skin to lay eggs, which causes intense irritation. Their activity is often most noticeable and bothersome at night.
Dry skin
Your skin lacks moisture, making it feel tight and rough. This dryness could worsen when you're warm in bed, triggering itch signals.
Urticaria (hives) nocturnal
Histamine released by your body causes raised, itchy welts. While hives could occur anytime, stress or body temperature changes at night may worsen them.
Contact dermatitis
An irritant or allergen in bedding or sleepwear triggers a skin reaction. You may not notice it until you're still and relaxed.
Anhidrosis and heat rash
Your body's inability to sweat properly traps heat and moisture. This leads to small, itchy bumps, especially when you're warm in bed.
Nerve sensitivity changes
Your nerves' sensitivity to itch signals could fluctuate throughout the day. This often increases during the quiet hours of the night.
Cholestasis of pregnancy
Bile acids build up in the blood during pregnancy, irritating nerve endings. This causes widespread itching, often worse on the hands and feet at night.
Systemic disease itch
Underlying conditions like kidney or liver disease could cause toxins to build up, which could trigger generalized itching.