Itching is something everyone has experienced, but when it continues without a clear cause or visible rash, it could signal an underlying medical issue. Known clinically as pruritus, persistent itching can be frustrating, impact sleep, and lower your overall quality of life.
Thankfully, modern diagnostics make it easier than ever to uncover hidden causes through targeted lab tests. In this article, we’ll explain how specific tests—such as allergy panels, liver and kidney profiles—can help identify what’s behind persistent itching. We’ll also introduce how CurePills Healthcare can support your diagnostic needs with accessible, high-quality lab services.
What Is Persistent Itching?
Itching is considered persistent when it lasts for more than six weeks. Unlike temporary itching caused by allergies or bug bites, chronic itching may not involve visible skin issues. Symptoms range from mild to severe and can disrupt daily life, sleep, and mental well-being.
Common signs of persistent itching:
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No visible rash
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Worsens at night
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Itching spreads or changes location
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Associated symptoms like fatigue, yellowing of the skin, or weight loss
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Poor response to moisturizers or antihistamines
Often, the root cause isn’t skin-deep—it may stem from internal organ issues or immune reactions, which makes lab evaluation essential.
Medical Causes of Persistent Itching
Persistent body itching can result from various internal and external factors. Common causes include:
Systemic Conditions:
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Liver disease: Cholestasis or hepatitis may cause bile salt buildup, leading to itching.
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Kidney dysfunction: Uremic toxins can trigger itching in those with renal impairment.
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Thyroid disorders: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism affect skin metabolism.
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Blood disorders: Iron deficiency, anaemia, and lymphomas may present with itching.
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Diabetes mellitus: Neuropathy and dry skin are common contributors.
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Infections: HIV, scabies, or parasitic infections can cause dermatological symptoms.
Dermatological Causes:
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Eczema, psoriasis
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Fungal infections
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Contact dermatitis
Allergic or Environmental Triggers:
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Dust mites, pollen, pet dander
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Food intolerances (e.g. dairy, nuts)
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Drug reactions
Recommended Blood and Diagnostic Tests for Itching
Healthcare providers often recommend a combination of blood and allergy tests to diagnose the cause of unexplained itching. Here are the key tests used:
1. Liver Function Test (LFT)
A must if you show signs of jaundice, fatigue, or abdominal discomfort.
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Key markers: ALT, AST, ALP, Bilirubin
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What it tells you: Raised bilirubin or ALP levels may suggest cholestasis or liver damage.
2. Kidney Function Test (KFT) with Electrolytes
Kidney-related itch is common but often underdiagnosed.
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Markers: Creatinine, Urea, Uric Acid, Sodium, Potassium
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Insight: High creatinine or urea may point to renal dysfunction, which can trigger uremic pruritus.
3. Allergy Comprehensive Panel
Ideal for suspected environmental or food-related allergies.
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Tests for:
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Dust mites, pollen, pet dander, mould
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Food allergens like milk, eggs, nuts, soy
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Environmental substances like latex, insect venom
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What it reveals: Elevated IgE levels confirm allergic sensitivity.
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Result interpretation:
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Class 0–1: Low/no sensitivity
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Class 2–3: Moderate (may require lifestyle changes)
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Class 4–6: High reactivity (requires allergist consultation)
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4. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Useful in detecting:
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Anaemia: Can lead to generalised itching
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Eosinophilia: May indicate parasitic or allergic causes
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Normal ranges:
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Haemoglobin: 13.5–17.5 g/dL (men), 12.0–15.5 g/dL (women)
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WBC: 4,000–11,000 cells/µL
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Eosinophils: up to 5%
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5. Thyroid Profile (TSH, T3, T4)
Thyroid issues can cause dry, itchy skin.
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Normal values:
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TSH: 0.4–4.0 mIU/L
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Free T4: 0.8–1.8 ng/dL
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Free T3: 2.3–4.2 pg/mL
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6. Iron Studies (Optional Add-On)
Chronic iron deficiency, especially in menstruating women or seniors, can lead to generalized itching.
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Tests include:
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Serum Iron
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Ferritin
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Transferrin Saturation
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Recommended if your CBC suggests anaemia.
7. CurePills Complete Health Panel
For cases where multiple symptoms exist, CurePills offers a comprehensive health check-up covering over 90 parameters.
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What’s Included: Liver, kidney, thyroid, blood sugar, lipid profile, cardiac markers, and more.
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Best for: Individuals with overlapping symptoms or unknown causes of itching.
Who Should Get Tested?
Consider diagnostic testing if you:
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Have itching that lasts more than 2 weeks
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Experience itching that worsens at night
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Notice yellowing of the skin or weight loss
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Have a history of liver, kidney, or thyroid problems
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Don’t respond to moisturizers or antihistamines
Children, older adults, and people with autoimmune disorders are more prone to systemic causes and should seek timely evaluation.
Why Choose CurePills for Lab Testing?
CurePills Healthcare provides safe, reliable, and user-friendly diagnostic services tailored to your needs:
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Convenient Bookings: Schedule tests online with doorstep sample collection in many areas
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Fast Turnaround: Most reports delivered within 6–24 hours
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Cost-Effective Packages: Combo deals and discounts to suit all budgets
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Certified Labs: NABL-accredited labs ensure accuracy and hygiene
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Expert Support: Consult with doctors directly through the platform for report explanation or follow-up
Final Thoughts
Persistent body itching isn't just uncomfortable—it may signal something serious beneath the surface. From liver and kidney issues to hidden allergies, identifying the cause early with the right tests can lead to effective treatment and long-term relief.
If you're struggling with unexplained itching, don’t wait. Take control of your health with CurePills’ comprehensive diagnostic packages and get closer to the answers—and the relief—you deserve.
