Itchy legs: 6 causes and what to do

The appearance of itchy legs is a relatively common symptom, but it is more common in adults or the elderly, since in most cases it is related to poor blood circulation that ends up not returning properly to the heart and, therefore, accumulates in the legs, causing slight swelling and itching.

However, there are several causes for itching, which can range from simple conditions, such as dry skin, to more serious problems, such as liver or kidney disease. Thus, the ideal is that, if the itch lasts many days to disappear or is recurrent, consult a family doctor or a dermatologist, to assess if there is any health problem and start the most appropriate treatment.

Check out the 6 most common reasons for itchy legs:

1. Very dry skin

Dry skin can happen at any age, especially in people who do not use any type of moisturizing cream, however it is especially more common with age, as the skin loses its hydration capacity.

Although itching is often accompanied by other signs such as peeling skin, whitish areas or even redness, there are several cases in which this does not happen and itching is the only symptom.

What to do: One of the most effective ways to keep your skin well hydrated is to drink the right amount of water a day, but also to use a moisturizer often. See how much water you should drink daily.

2. Poor circulation

Along with dry skin, poor circulation is another major cause of itchy legs. This is because, with advancing age, the valves present in the veins of the legs, which help the blood to return to the heart, weaken, making it more difficult to push the blood upwards.

With the accumulation of blood, the tissues receive less amount of oxygen and end up accumulating more toxins and, therefore, it is common for a slight itchy sensation that worsens throughout the day. Other common symptoms in these situations include swelling of the legs, tingling and feeling of heavy legs, for example.

Poor circulation is more frequent in people who stand for a long time or who have diseases that increase pressure on the vessels and impair circulation, such as high blood pressure or heart failure.

What to do: A good way to relieve the itchiness of poor circulation quickly is to massage the legs, applying light pressure from the ankles to the groin. However, avoiding standing for a long time, not crossing your legs and resting with your legs raised also helps to prevent itching. See 5 homemade ways to relieve poor circulation in your legs.

3. Insect bite

Itchy legs can often be just a symptom of insect bites. This is because many insects, like some types of mosquitoes, have a preference for stinging their legs, as they are parts of the body that are easily discovered, especially during the summer.

Therefore, if other symptoms appear, such as small bumps or small red spots on the skin, along with the itching, it may indicate that it really is a sting.

What to do: A practical way to relieve the itchiness caused by an insect bite is to apply a pomade ointment, such as Polaramine or Andantol, for example. However, running an ice cube over the area or applying a cold compress can also help relieve itching. See more examples of ointments to pass the bite.

4. Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a type of skin allergy that arises from contact with a substance or object irritating to the skin. Thus, it is more common when wearing pants for a long time, especially when the fabric is synthetic, such as polyester or elastane. This type of tissue does not allow the skin to breathe, so it can easily cause a skin reaction.

Symptoms of dermatitis can also include redness of the skin, flaking and the presence of small sores on the skin. Check out a list of symptoms that help identify contact dermatitis.

What to do: it is usually sufficient to remove the pants and let the skin breathe, however, if the symptoms do not improve, even after taking a shower, the ideal is to go to the dermatologist, as in some it may be necessary to apply corticoid ointments.

5. Diabetes

People who have diabetes and don't get the proper treatment, or who don't know they have diabetes, can develop complications. One of these complications is neuropathy, in which nerve endings are damaged by excess blood sugar, which ends up resulting in symptoms such as tingling and itchy skin.

The first places that are usually affected by neuropathy are the feet, legs or hands, which is why itching in these places can be a sign of diabetes. Some symptoms that can make a person suspicious of diabetes include frequent urge to urinate, thirst and excessive hunger and rapid weight loss.

What to do: If diabetes is suspected, it is important to see a general practitioner to have blood tests and confirm the diagnosis, initiating appropriate treatment. Take our online test to find out if you are at risk for diabetes.

6. Kidney or liver disease

Although itching is more rare, itchy legs can also be a first sign of a kidney or liver problem. Normally, the liver and kidneys help to filter and clean the blood, so if they are not working properly it can cause some toxins to build up in the tissues, causing itchy skin.

In addition, other health problems, such as hyper or hypothyroidism, can also cause itchy skin, with a special focus on the legs. Check a list of symptoms that may indicate liver problems and another for kidney problems.

What to do: the ideal is to consult a general practitioner, or even a dermatologist, to try to identify the cause of the itchy legs. If a liver or kidney problem is suspected, the doctor may refer you to another specialist or even order various tests such as urine tests, ultrasound or blood tests, for example.