Itchy legs are a major cause of concern and you should never ignore them.
There are major factors linked to this life-threatening condition.
Here are the underlying causes of itchy legs as noted by Jennifer Robinson, MD, a Professor in the Departments of Epidemiology and Medicine.
1. Diabetes
People with diabetes are likely to suffer from itchy legs due to a number of reasons such as high blood pressure, poor circulation and nerve damage.
High blood sugar in the body has been associated with dry skin and this often kindles the urge to scratch your legs. Another factor that could cause itchy legs is poor circulation that is more common in diabetic people. Nerve damage in the legs has been listed among the factors that bring about leg itchiness.
2. Allergic reactions
Itchy legs might be caused by allergic reactions. When you are allergic to some substances, you are likely to develop some rashes on your legs which triggers the urge to scratch them. Leg rashes is a sign of allergic skin reaction identified as contact dermatitis. Substances that can expose you to dermatitis are shampoos, latex, fragrances, cement, poison ivy, detergents and fabric softeners.
3. Certain medications
Some drugs come with side effects like skin itchiness. Several drugs such as opioid painkillers are said to cause leg itchiness in some people. Other drugs that cause itchy legs include Sulfa drugs, chemotherapy, anticonvulsants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and penicillin-based antibiotics.