Cold Symptoms and Itchy Skin: Understanding the Connection

September 24, 2024

118 16 minutes read

Can a Cold Cause Itchy Skin?

The short answer is yes, a cold can sometimes lead to itchy skin. When you have a cold, your body releases histamine as part of the immune response to fight off the virus^[9]. Histamine is a chemical that causes inflammation and can trigger itching.

In addition, having a cold often leads to dry skin, especially if you’re dehydrated from not drinking enough fluids. Dry skin tends to be itchy skin. Using tissues frequently to blow your nose can also irritate the sensitive skin around your nostrils, causing more itchiness^[10].

However, it’s important to note that itching isn’t the most common symptom of a cold. Classic cold symptoms include:

Runny or stuffy nose
Sore throat
Cough
Congestion
Slight body aches or mild headache
Sneezing
Low-grade fever
Generally feeling unwell

If your main symptom is itchy skin rather than these more typical signs, it’s possible you could be dealing with allergies or another skin condition instead of a cold^[9]. More on how to tell the difference later in this article.

Soothing Itchy Skin During a Cold

When you’re battling a cold and itchy skin, there are several steps you can take to find relief^[10]:

Moisturize often. Applying a gentle, fragrance-free lotion or cream after bathing and throughout the day can help soothe dry, itchy skin. Look for products with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, or ceramides.
Take lukewarm baths. Although a hot shower might sound soothing, the heat can actually dry out your skin more. Opt for a 10-minute bath or shower in warm water instead. Consider adding colloidal oatmeal to the bathwater, which has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
Use gentle cleansers. Harsh soaps can strip moisture from your skin. Choose a mild, fragrance-free cleanser or consider skipping soap and just using water on your body during a cold.
Run a humidifier. Dry indoor air can contribute to parched, itchy skin. A cool mist humidifier can add moisture back into your environment. Be sure to clean it regularly to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
Wear soft, breathable fabrics. Rough clothing can irritate sensitive skin. Dress in loose-fitting, cotton clothes and use cotton sheets on your bed to minimize itchiness.
Apply a cold compress. Placing a cool, damp washcloth on especially itchy patches of skin can provide temporary relief.
Try an over-the-counter anti-itch cream. If moisturizing and home remedies aren’t cutting it, consider using a hydrocortisone cream to calm the itch. Check with your doctor first if you have any other health conditions.
Take an oral antihistamine. Over-the-counter antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or loratadine (Claritin) may help relieve itching by blocking the effects of histamine in your body. Some can cause drowsiness, so take them at bedtime.

When to See a Doctor for Persistent Itching with a Cold

Most of the time, itchy skin caused by a cold is a temporary annoyance that gets better on its own within a week or two. However, there are some situations where you should contact your doctor^[10]:

The itching is severe and interfering with your daily life or ability to sleep
You have other symptoms like a rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing (could indicate an allergy)
The itching persists for more than two weeks or gets worse over time
Your skin becomes painful, warm, or shows signs of infection like redness or discharge
Home remedies and over-the-counter treatments aren’t helping

Your doctor can assess your symptoms, determine if your itching is actually due to a cold or something else, and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. They may prescribe stronger medications like prescription-strength steroid creams or oral corticosteroids in some cases.

As mentioned earlier, sometimes what you think is a cold might actually be allergies, especially if itching is a predominant symptom. Here are some clues that suggest your itchy skin could be due to an allergy rather than a cold^[9]^[12]:

Absence of fever: Colds sometimes cause a low-grade fever, while allergies do not cause fever.
Itchiness in eyes, nose, roof of mouth: Allergies often cause itchy eyes, nose, ears, and throat. Colds usually don’t.
Runny nose with thin, clear discharge: Allergic rhinitis typically causes clear, watery mucus. Cold mucus tends to be thicker and more discolored (yellow or green).
Sneezing episodes: Allergies often cause sneezing spells with multiple sneezes in a row. With a cold, sneezing is usually intermittent.
Seasonality and duration of symptoms: Colds usually last 3 to 14 days. Allergies persist for as long as you’re exposed to the allergen, which could be months for something like pollen. Allergies also tend to flare up seasonally (e.g. spring for tree pollen).
Presence of rash or hives: Some allergic reactions cause hives or rash in addition to itching. Colds rarely cause skin rashes, with the exception of some viral rashes in children.

If you suspect your itchy skin and other symptoms are due to allergies, talk to your doctor. They may recommend allergy testing and treatments like antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, or immunotherapy. Avoiding exposure to the allergen is also key.

Medications and Itchy Skin

In some cases, the medications you take to relieve cold symptoms could actually make your itchy skin worse. Some oral decongestants and antihistamines have a drying effect on skin and mucous membranes. If you have sensitive skin, you may also react to inactive ingredients in some cold medicines^[10].

If you think your cold medication could be contributing to itchy skin, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options. They may recommend switching to a different formula or using nasal sprays instead of oral drugs to minimize skin dryness and irritation.

Body Itching After Eating: Potential Causes and Treatments

Feeling itchy all over after a meal can be perplexing and uncomfortable. In some cases, it can even be a sign of a potentially serious condition. Let’s explore some reasons why your skin might get itchy after eating and what you can do about it.

Food Intolerance and Itchy Skin

One possible cause of body itching after eating is food intolerance. Unlike a food allergy, an intolerance doesn’t involve the immune system. Instead, it occurs when your digestive system has trouble breaking down certain foods. This can lead to various symptoms, including^[5]:

Itching or tingling in the mouth, throat, or skin
Abdominal pain or cramping
Bloating and gas
Diarrhea
Headaches
Flushing of the skin

Some common food intolerances that can cause itching include:

Histamine intolerance: Histamine is a chemical that occurs naturally in aged, cured, fermented, and spoiled foods. It’s also released by your immune cells during an allergic reaction. If you don’t break down histamine properly, it can build up and cause itching^[5].
Salicylate sensitivity: Salicylates are chemicals that occur naturally in many fruits, vegetables, spices, coffee, juices, and honey. They’re also found in aspirin, toothpaste, and other products. Some people are sensitive to salicylates and may experience itching after ingesting them^[5].
Sulfite sensitivity: Sulfites are preservatives added to some foods and drinks to extend their shelf life. They can also occur naturally in fermented foods like wine and aged cheese. Sulfite sensitivity can cause itching, hives, and even asthma symptoms in some people^[5].
Gluten intolerance: Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Some people have trouble digesting it, which can lead to itchy skin, rash, or digestive issues. The most severe form of gluten intolerance is celiac disease^[5].

Managing Food Intolerance-Related Itching

If you suspect a food intolerance is causing your itchy skin, the first step is to try to identify your triggers. Keep a food and symptom diary to see if you can spot any patterns. Common culprits include:

Aged cheeses and cured meats
Fermented foods like wine, beer, vinegar, and soy sauce
Citrus fruits and berries
Tomatoes and tomato sauce
Spices like cinnamon and vanilla
Peanuts and tree nuts
Chocolate and coffee

Once you have an idea of what foods might be problematic, try eliminating them from your diet for a few weeks to see if your symptoms improve. Then, reintroduce them one at a time to confirm whether they’re really a trigger for you.

In the meantime, you can manage itching by^[5]:

Taking an over-the-counter antihistamine to reduce itching and inflammation
Applying a cool compress or hydrocortisone cream to itchy areas
Avoiding hot showers or baths, which can dry out your skin and make itching worse
Wearing loose, soft clothing that doesn’t irritate your skin
Using fragrance-free moisturizers to soothe dry, itchy skin

If eliminating suspect foods doesn’t help or your symptoms are severe, talk to your doctor. They may recommend additional testing or refer you to a specialist to rule out other conditions.

Food Allergies and Itchy Skin

Another possible cause of itching after eating is a food allergy. Unlike an intolerance, a food allergy involves your immune system overreacting to a normally harmless food protein. When you’re allergic and eat the trigger food, your immune cells release chemicals like histamine that can cause symptoms such as^[8]^[11]:

Hives or itchy rash
Itching or tingling in the mouth, throat, or skin
Swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, or face
Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting
Wheezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing

In severe cases, a food allergy can cause anaphylaxis – a potentially life-threatening reaction that can make it hard to breathe and cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment with epinephrine.

Common Food Allergens

While any food can cause an allergic reaction, some are more common triggers than others. The “Big 8” allergens that account for about 90% of food allergies are^[8]^[11]:

Peanuts
Tree nuts (e.g. almonds, walnuts, cashews)
Milk
Eggs
Fish
Shellfish (e.g. shrimp, crab, lobster)
Soy
Wheat

Other potential allergens include sesame, certain fruits and vegetables, and some food additives.

Identifying Food Triggers for Itching

If you consistently get itchy after eating a particular food, it’s wise to see an allergist. They can do tests to help pinpoint your triggers, such as:

Skin prick test: The doctor places a drop of the suspected allergen on your skin, then pricks the skin to allow it to enter. If you’re allergic, a small bump or hive will form at the site.
Blood tests: RAST or ImmunoCap tests measure the level of food-specific IgE antibodies in your blood. A high level suggests an allergy.
Oral food challenge: Under medical supervision, you eat small but increasing amounts of a suspect food and are monitored for a reaction. This is the gold standard for diagnosing a food allergy.

Your allergist can also advise you on how to avoid trigger foods and prescribe emergency medication like an epinephrine auto-injector if needed.

When to Seek Immediate Help

Hives, itching, and mild swelling are uncomfortable, but aren’t usually dangerous. However, you should call 911 right away if you experience signs of anaphylaxis after eating, such as^[8]^[11]:

Difficult or noisy breathing
Swelling of the tongue or throat
Difficulty talking or a hoarse voice
Wheezing or persistent cough
Dizziness, fainting, or loss of consciousness
Pale, floppy, or unresponsive (in babies or young children)

Anaphylaxis can progress quickly, so don’t wait to see if symptoms improve on their own. Use an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed and available, then call for emergency help. Epinephrine is the only medication that can stop anaphylaxis.

Itching in Early Pregnancy: Normal or Cause for Concern?

Itchy skin is a common complaint during pregnancy, affecting around 20% of expecting mothers^[7]. In most cases, it’s a normal and temporary annoyance. However, severe itching can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health issue. Here’s what you need to know about itching in early pregnancy.

Pruritus Gravidarum: The Medical Term for Pregnancy Itching

The fancy name for itching during pregnancy is “pruritus gravidarum.” It simply means itchy skin caused by being pregnant. Pruritus gravidarum is most common in the third trimester, but some women notice it earlier.

Mild to moderate itching is usually nothing to worry about. It tends to crop up in places where the skin is stretching, like the belly and breasts. Some women also experience itching on their arms, legs, or back.

Hormonal Changes: The Main Cause of Early Pregnancy Itching

So what’s behind that maddening itch? Rising hormone levels are mostly to blame. Here’s how:

Increased blood supply: Pregnancy hormones cause your blood volume to increase by about 50%. More blood flowing to your skin can make it feel more sensitive and itchy^[1].
Skin stretching: As your baby bump grows, your skin has to stretch to accommodate it. This can lead to dryness, flaking, and itching, especially if you’re prone to eczema or have naturally dry skin^[1].
Sensitive skin: Surging hormones can change how your skin reacts to things it normally tolerates, like soaps, detergents, and fabrics. Suddenly, your favorite body wash or sheets might make you itch like crazy.
Cholestasis of pregnancy: In rare cases, severe itching in the third trimester can be a sign of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), a liver disorder that affects the flow of bile^[2]^[6]. We’ll discuss this more later.

Soothing the Itch: Tips for Relief

For most expecting moms, simple home remedies can help ease the itch and prevent skin irritation^[1]^[2]:

Moisturize regularly: Apply a gentle, fragrance-free lotion or oil (like coconut or almond oil) to damp skin after bathing and throughout the day. Look for products with soothing ingredients like oatmeal or aloe vera.
Take an oatmeal bath: Add a cup of colloidal oatmeal to a lukewarm bath and soak for 10-15 minutes. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve itching.
Stay cool: Heat and sweat can make itching worse. Wear loose, breathable clothing and keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Use a fan or air conditioner if needed.
Avoid hot showers: Stick to warm or cool showers and baths. Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils and cause dryness and itching.
Choose gentle products: Use mild, unscented cleansers and detergents. Avoid products with harsh chemicals, fragrances, or dyes that can irritate sensitive skin.
Don’t scratch: Scratching can damage your skin and make itching worse. Instead, apply a cold compress or ice pack to itchy areas for relief. Trim your nails short to avoid breaking the skin if you do scratch.
Try an antihistamine: An over-the-counter oral antihistamine like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) may help reduce itching by blocking the effects of histamine in your body. Always check with your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy.

If home remedies don’t help or your itching is severe, talk to your healthcare provider. They can assess your symptoms and recommend additional treatments if needed, such as a topical corticosteroid cream.

Cholestasis of Pregnancy: A Serious Cause of Itching

As mentioned earlier, intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is a rare but serious liver disorder that can cause intense itching, especially on the palms and soles of the feet. It typically develops in the third trimester but can start earlier in some women^[2]^[6].

In ICP, the normal flow of bile salts from the liver to the digestive tract is disrupted. This causes bile salts to build up in the blood, leading to severe itching and potential complications for the baby, such as preterm birth or stillbirth.

Other signs and symptoms of ICP may include^[2]^[6]:

Itching that’s worse at night
Dark urine or light-colored stools
Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice)
Nausea or pain in the upper right abdomen
Fatigue or depression

If you have any of these symptoms, call your doctor right away. They can do a physical exam and blood tests to check your liver function and bile salt levels.

ICP is typically treated with a medication called ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), which helps reduce bile salts and relieve itching. Your doctor will also likely recommend close monitoring of your pregnancy, including regular ultrasounds and fetal heart rate checks. In some cases, early delivery may be necessary to reduce the risk of complications for the baby^[2]^[6].

The good news is that ICP usually resolves on its own within a few days after delivery. However, it can recur in future pregnancies, so be sure to let your doctor know if you’ve had ICP before.

Other Causes of Itching in Pregnancy

In addition to hormonal changes and ICP, there are a few other conditions that can cause itchy skin during pregnancy^[1]^[3]:

Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP): A harmless but annoying rash that usually appears in stretch marks during late pregnancy. It causes small, itchy bumps and red, swollen patches on the skin.
Eczema: Pregnancy can sometimes trigger or worsen eczema, causing dry, itchy, inflamed skin. Eczema often improves after delivery.
Psoriasis: The hormonal changes of pregnancy can also affect psoriasis, either improving or worsening symptoms. Psoriasis causes thick, scaly patches on the skin that can be itchy and painful.
Hives: Rarely, an allergic reaction or sensitivity to a food or medication can cause hives – red, swollen, itchy bumps on the skin. Hives usually go away within a day or two.

If you develop any type of rash or skin changes during pregnancy, let your doctor know. They can help identify the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

When to See a Doctor for Itching in Early Pregnancy

Although mild itching is common and usually harmless in pregnancy, there are some situations where you should contact your healthcare provider right away^[1]^[2]:

The itching is severe, constant, or interfering with your daily life or sleep
You have signs of ICP like itching on your palms/soles, dark urine, or light stools
You develop a rash, hives, or skin changes along with the itching
The itching is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, nausea, or jaundice
Home remedies and over-the-counter treatments aren’t helping
You’re concerned the itching could be a sign of an underlying health problem

Your doctor can do a physical exam and any necessary tests to determine the cause of your itching and make sure you and your baby are healthy. They can also provide guidance on safe and effective treatments to help you find relief.

Stretch Marks: A Common Skin Change in Pregnancy

No discussion of skin changes in pregnancy would be complete without mentioning stretch marks. Although they don’t cause itching, stretch marks are a common concern for many expecting moms.

Stretch marks are pinkish or reddish streaks that can appear on your belly, breasts, hips, or thighs as your skin stretches to accommodate your growing baby. They’re caused by changes in the elastic supportive tissue that lies just beneath the skin.

Not everyone gets stretch marks, but some factors can increase your risk, including^[4]:

Gaining more weight than recommended during pregnancy
Having a family history of stretch marks
Being younger than 30
Carrying multiples (twins or more)

Unfortunately, there’s no surefire way to prevent stretch marks. Keeping your skin well-moisturized may help improve its elasticity, but creams and oils won’t stop stretch marks from forming.

The good news is that stretch marks usually fade to a less noticeable silvery-white color after delivery. If they bother you, talk to a dermatologist about treatment options like retinoid creams or laser therapy. But try not to stress too much about them – they’re a normal and common part of pregnancy for many women.

Embracing the Changes: A Healthy Perspective on Pregnancy Skin

Pregnancy can bring all sorts of surprising skin changes, from itching and rashes to stretch marks and darkening of the nipples. It’s easy to feel self-conscious or frustrated by these changes, especially when you’re already dealing with so many other physical and emotional challenges.

However, try to remember that most of these skin issues are temporary and will improve or disappear after you give birth. They’re a normal part of the incredible journey your body is going through to grow and nourish your baby.

Instead of focusing on the negatives, try to embrace your changing skin with a positive and proactive attitude. Take good care of yourself by eating well, staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and pampering your skin with gentle products. Wear clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident. Surround yourself with supportive people who build you up instead of tearing you down.

Most importantly, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team if you have any concerns about your skin or overall health during pregnancy. They’re there to provide guidance, reassurance, and treatment when needed.

With a little patience, self-love, and support from others, you can navigate the challenges of pregnancy skin and come out glowing on the other side – just like the amazing mama you are!

Summary

Mild itching is common in pregnancy due to hormonal changes, skin stretching, and increased sensitivity. It’s usually most noticeable on the belly, breasts, and extremities.
Simple home remedies like moisturizing, oatmeal baths, cool compresses, and gentle skincare can often relieve itching. An oral antihistamine may also help.
Rarely, severe itching in the third trimester can be a sign of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), a serious liver disorder that requires prompt medical attention and treatment.
Other causes of itchy skin in pregnancy include PUPPP, eczema, psoriasis, and hives. Contact your doctor if you develop a rash or severe/persistent itching.
Stretch marks are a common skin change in pregnancy that don’t cause itching but can be a cosmetic concern for some women. They usually fade after delivery.
Most pregnancy skin changes are normal and temporary. Focusing on self-care, positive thinking, and support from loved ones and healthcare providers can help you embrace the journey and stay healthy.

FAQs

Is it normal to have itchy skin during pregnancy?

Yes, mild itching is common in pregnancy, especially on the belly, breasts, and extremities. It’s usually caused by hormonal changes, skin stretching, and increased sensitivity.

When should I worry about itching in pregnancy?

Contact your doctor if the itching is severe, constant, or accompanied by other symptoms like a rash, dark urine, light stools, or jaundice. These could be signs of an underlying health issue that needs treatment.

How can I relieve itchy skin during pregnancy?

Try moisturizing regularly, taking oatmeal baths, using cool compresses, wearing soft clothing, and avoiding hot showers and harsh skincare products. An oral antihistamine may also help, but check with your doctor first.

Can I prevent stretch marks during pregnancy?

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent stretch marks, but keeping your skin moisturized may help improve its elasticity. Maintaining a healthy weight and staying hydrated are also good for your skin.

What should I do if I think I have cholestasis of pregnancy?

Call your doctor right away if you have signs of cholestasis like severe itching (especially on your palms/soles), dark urine, or light-colored stools. They can do tests to check your liver function and bile salt levels. Prompt treatment is important to reduce risks for you and your baby.

References

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March of Dimes. (2020). Itching and intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). https://www.marchofdimes.org/complications/itching-and-intrahepatic-cholestasis-of-pregnancy.aspx
Ambros-Rudolph, C. M. (2011). Dermatoses of pregnancy – clues to diagnosis, fetal risk and therapy. Annals of dermatology, 23(3), 265–275. https://doi.org/10.5021/ad.2011.23.3.265
American Academy of Dermatology Association. (n.d.). Stretch marks: Why they appear and how to get rid of them. https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/scars-stretch-marks/stretch-marks-why-appear
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Sicherer, S. H., & Sampson, H. A. (2018). Food allergy: A review and update on epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention, and management. The Journal of allergy and clinical immunology, 141(1), 41–58. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaci.2017.11.003
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