Mitchell J. Mandel, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist, founder · All offices
Chronic itch and prurigo nodularis
Medically reviewed by Mitchell J. Mandel, M.D., F.A.A.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist. Last reviewed .
Chronic itch is itching that lasts more than 6 weeks. It can come from skin conditions, dry skin, nerve problems, other health conditions or medicines. It can disrupt sleep and daily life.
Prurigo nodularis is a chronic inflammatory condition involving the immune system and nerves. It causes intense itching and firm bumps; scratching can worsen the cycle.
Signs and symptoms
- Itching that lasts for weeks or months
- Firm, raised, itchy bumps
- Scratch marks, scabs or dark spots
- Itching that keeps you up at night
How we treat it
- Finding the cause, which may include blood tests or a biopsy
- Prescription creams and anti-itch treatments
- Steroid injections into bumps
- Narrowband UVB light therapy at our Upper East Side and Greenvale offices
- Biologic treatments, including options approved for prurigo nodularis
- Oral medicines for nerve-related itch
Where it is offered
Offered at all of our offices.
Q&A
Can itch be a sign of another illness?
Sometimes. Itch without a rash can be linked to kidney, liver or thyroid problems, blood conditions or medicines. Your provider may order tests.
How do I stop the itch-scratch cycle?
Treatment calms the itch so you scratch less. Keeping nails short, moisturizing and using cool compresses also help.
Who you can see
Dustin Marks, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Upper East Side
Emily Tongdee, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Downtown Brooklyn
Emma Newman, PA-C
Physician assistant · Upper East Side
Grace Jarrett, PA-C
Physician assistant · Downtown Brooklyn
Leah Aminov, PA-C
Physician assistant · Greenvale
Karen Chen, PA-C
Physician assistant · Streeterville
Paige Yurick, PA-C
Physician assistant · Streeterville
Arielle Ades, DNP, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Francesca Raedel, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Jennifer Telgener, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Christine Sacco, FNP-C
Nurse practitioner · Palm Beach Gardens