What It Really Means When Your Elbow Itches
Itching on any part of the body can be an alarming, uncomfortable, and highly irritating experience, especially when it occurs on one particular part of the body such as the elbow. But, what does it actually mean when your elbow itches?
As it turns out, an itchy elbow could signify a number of skin conditions. Per HowStuffWorks, one of the most likely causes of itching in this area is a chronic autoimmune disease known as psoriasis, a condition that causes a rapid turnover of your skin cells and leads to itchy scales on the elbow and other parts of the body. Thankfully, psoriasis is treatable, although it is advised you refrain from itching the impacted area.
According to Verywell Health, another potential cause of an itchy elbow is the skin condition known as eczema. This condition is generally brought on by the environment, genetics, stress, and an immune system that is sensitive to irritants or allergens. When a person's elbow is affected by eczema, the skin barrier in the area is damaged and can lead to discoloration, swelling, dry and patchy skin, and itching.
Here's how you can treat symptoms of an itchy elbow
According to HowStuffWorks, another skin condition often associated with an itchy elbow is atopic dermatitis, which causes very dry and itchy skin around the knees, neck, face, and elbow. A common condition known as contact dermatitis can also be linked to itching of the elbow and is usually brought on by an irritant or an allergic reaction (via Verywell Health).
If an itchy elbow persists, it is always advised to seek some form of medical attention to determine the root cause or to try some simple at-home remedies. For the conditions mentioned above, some potential treatments for an itchy elbow include prescription medications such as creams, shots, pills, phototherapy, anti-itch creams to help reduce itching and inflammation, oral steroids, and over-the-counter ointments.
If itching on the elbow is brought on by exposure to a particular substance or irritant, it is also advised you avoid contact or minimize your exposure to that substance.