Mercy's Dr. Jonathan Rich, D.O., Offers Insights into What May Be Causing Your Skin to Itch

From heat rashes to bug bites, summer is often the time of year people are resisting the urge to scratch that itch.

While most itches are bothersome or uncomfortable, excessive scratching can damage your skin.

It's often triggered by histamine, a chemical in the body associated with immune responses. It causes the itch and redness you see with insect bites, rashes and skin dryness or damage.

Perfumes, sprays or dyes can also be hard on the skin and cause a rash. According to Dr. Jonathan Rich, a primary care doctor with Mercy Personal Physicians Downtown in Baltimore, Maryland said sometimes, a persistent itch is an indication of something more serious.

"If a rash develops, even becomes painful, or starts spreading, absolutely may not be a bad idea to come see us, or if you don't know what it might be and you've tried numerous medications and it's not going away, it would be a good idea to come see us," Dr. Rich said.

There are plenty of over the counter treatments to help.

Some might offer relief, but not treat the problem. Dr. Rich suggests seeing a doctor if creams or ointments don't work.

To view Mercy Medical Center’s Dr. Jonathan Rich’s interview regarding what may cause skin irritation and itching, click here.