Scratching while asleep

My boyfriend has had a problem his whole life with very sensitive and itchy skin.  He moisturizes almost his entire body and avoids problems during the day for the most part.  At night, however, he unconsciously scrathes his entire upper torso and head while asleep.  I can pull his hands away, but he goes back to scratching as soon as I stop.  He gives himself bad scars and is causing hair loss because of the volume of scratching.  His nails are always kept as short as possible and he's tried to wear gloves but can't sleep with them on.  What can be done to help him?  We have no idea to address something he cannot control.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms the possibility of eczema needs to be ruled out. Eczema is a form of chronic dermatitis (rash).Allergic reaction is one of the important causes of eczema. Allergic reaction can occur to strong soaps, Solvents, chemicals, certain foods, food additives, plants, metals, cosmetics, even urine and faeces of some animals (dust mites).

My sincere advice would be to consult a dermatologist/ allergist and get this possibility evaluated.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.