Antihistamines & Itchy Skin With No Rash

Antihistamines are designed to help block an allergic reaction whether it's on your skin or within your body, such as your nasal cavity or sinuses. When you have an allergic reaction to something, you won't always develop a skin rash to accompany the signs or symptoms of an allergic reaction. If you develop itchy skin without a rash that does not respond well to antihistamines, let your doctor know.

Hand itching another hand (Image: sakhorn38/iStock/Getty Images)

Antihistamines

Antihistamines help reduce allergy symptoms such as itchy skin, watery eyes, sneezing and runny nose. They can also help decrease allergic skin reactions that do cause a rash, but they will work even if a rash is not present. Antihistamines are available with or without a prescription, depending upon strength, and can have side effects such as blurry vision, dry mouth and drowsiness. Antihistamines should not be used with other medications, such as antibiotics. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if it's safe to take an antihistamine with other medications that you might take.

Itchy Skin Without Rash

It's possible to have itchy skin without a rash. Itchy skin is also known as pruritus, which is an uncomfortable, irritating skin condition that causes irresistible scratching. MayoClinic.com notes that itchy skin can have hundreds of various possible causes, so it may be hard to determine the exact cause. Sometimes internal diseases can cause itchy skin, such as renal failure or liver disease. Flushing, usually caused by consuming too much niacin, can cause you to have itchy skin. Certain allergic reactions can cause you to have itching of the nose, mouth, throat, eyes, skin and other areas of your body without a rash.

Remedies

Aside from antihistamines to help ease the itching and discomfort associated with an allergic reaction, you can try some home remedies too. Avoid scratching the area that itches. If there is an allergic substance on your skin, scratching can spread the substance to other areas of your body and it can become trapped under your fingernails. Wear loose-fitting articles of clothing and apply a cold compress to the itchy area. Lukewarm baths can help ease the itching and discomfort, especially if you use cornstarch or a skin-soothing oatmeal in the bath. If you suffer from dry, itchy skin due to inclement weather, moisturizer can help rejuvenate and heal skin. Topical hydrocortisone, which can be purchased over the counter, may also help ease itching and discomfort.

Considerations

If you have an itchy patch of skin and antihistamines do not help, your doctor can run a series of tests and help you determine if you're allergic to something within your home or office. Examine the area to determine if there is a bug bite, sting or other possible causes of the itching. If the itching is persistent and a rash develops after taking an antihistamine, you could be having a severe allergic reaction. A severe allergic reaction requires prompt medical attention.