US Medical Term · symptoms
Itching
Picazón
Also: Comezón (regional variant)
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Itching |
| Spanish (Español) | Picazón |
| Chinese (中文) | 搔癢 |
| Korean (한국어) | 가려움증 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Ngứa |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Pangangati |
| Portuguese (Português) | Coceira |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | คัน |
| Japanese (日本語) | かゆみ |
What it means
Itching, also called pruritus, is an uncomfortable sensation that prompts the urge to scratch. It can affect a small area or the whole body. Common causes include dry skin, eczema, psoriasis, allergic reactions, insect bites, and skin infections. Itching without a visible rash may signal internal conditions such as liver disease, kidney failure, thyroid disorders, or certain cancers. Prolonged or severe itching should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Treatment depends on the cause and may include moisturizers, antihistamines, corticosteroid creams, or treatment of an underlying systemic condition.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
I have been itching all over my body for the past week.
He tenido picazón por todo el cuerpo durante la última semana.
The itching is worst at night and is affecting my sleep.
La picazón es peor por la noche y está afectando mi sueño.
I do not see a rash but my skin itches constantly.
No veo sarpullido pero mi piel pica constantemente.
Where you'll see it
Related ICD-10-CM category
L29 PruritusRelated terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026