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Diseases & Conditions
Why do I itch more at night?
- By Toni Golen, MD, Contributor, and
- Hope Ricciotti, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Women's Health Watch
Ask the doctors
Q. Lately I lie in bed each night scratching itches I either didn’t have or didn’t notice during the day. What’s going on? What can I do about it?
A. You’re experiencing a fairly common problem called nocturnal pruritus. This maddening condition can be triggered by several things, including our own circadian rhythm, the body’s natural 24-hour cycle. This shift can trigger nighttime skin changes such as greater blood flow, feelings of warmth, and lower levels of corticosteroids that might otherwise tamp down inflammation (and itching).
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New information on treatments for both medical skin conditions and cosmetic problems is available in the Special Health Report Skin Care and Repair. This report describes scientifically approved treatments for common medical conditions from acne to rosacea, as well as the newest cosmetic procedures for lines, wrinkles, age spots, and other problems. An explanation of the ingredients in popular skin lotions and cosmeceuticals is also included.
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