intense skin itching

hy i am a forty year old male i have been havinga serious skin earitaition problim for five years now i am allergic to dogs ,pollin,molds,very aller to orkid grass, about five years ago i had kind of a nervous breakdown one weak later my hole body began to itch if i do not take a antihistimine every two day clariton D my body begins to itch and what is disturbing is that f i tried to go five days without taking it i cant even function no sleep nothing i get sesations as if i have poison ivy erupting all over my hole body out of controll itching tortcher my Qeastion is could ther be another hidden issue maybe gallblader (gallbladder) or one of my glands or organs malfunktioning thanks for any help

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
There are many reasons for itchy skin without a rash. Dry skin is one of them. Skin conditions like psoriasis, dermatitis, scabies and hives, internal diseases like liver and kidney disorders,diabetes, iron deficiency anemia, irritation and allergic reactions to chemicals, wool, soaps, cosmetics and certain foods  can cause itchy skin.

You can apply an anti-itch cream or lotion to the affected area. Oral antihistamine, such as Benadryl can also be used. You should take a comfortably cool bath and wear smooth-textured cotton clothing. Covering the affected area with bandages and dressings can help protect the skin and prevent scratching. You should choose mild soaps without dyes or perfumes and use a mild, unscented laundry detergent when washing clothes, towels and bedding.
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.