Itchy neck is one of the common trivial symptoms of allergic reaction to the skin and is marked by irritation, tingling and an irresistible desire to scratch. Itchy neck may be accompanied by redness, agitation, scaly skin, peeling, swelling and other similar symptoms that may point to the primary etiology of the illness. Read further to know the causes and home remedies for this symptom.

Causes of Itchy Neck

Allergies

1. Metals. Allergic reaction to certain metals especially imitation jewelry is one of the most commonly reported causes of itchy neck.

2. Cosmetic Products. Allergic reaction to certain ingredients in cosmetics, beauty-care or skin-care products and soaps.

3. Synthetic Products. Allergic reaction to certain synthetic or industrial products like latex wear, rubber and elastic.

4. Plants. Contact dermatitis to poison ivy and oak also presents with itchy neck.

Infections

1. Chicken Pox or Small Pox. Chicken pox or small pox that is marked by fever, sore-throat and itchiness of neck and upper trunk for a few days and is followed by crops of vesicles and other types of skin lesions.

2. Parasitic Infections. Scabies, lice and pin-worm are parasitic infections that also cause itchy neck and body.

3. Other Infections. Psoriasis, eczema and candidiasis are also notable causes of itchy neck.

Serious Causes

Sometimes, certain life threatening infections or diseases may also present with itchy neck that may later involve vital organs. Few examples include anaphylactic reaction to bee sting, certain foods or medications, chronic renal failure and chronic biliary cirrhosis.

Others Causes

Other common causes of itchy neck include dryness of the skin, sudden changes in the environment like extreme cold or extreme hot weather that leads to excessive perspiration. In addition, pregnancy and stress changes the biochemical balance in the concentration of different hormones that may present with itchy neck or itchiness of entire body. Sometimes medications may also lead to itchy neck especially blood pressure medications.

Home Remedies to Relieve Itchy Neck

Avoid Scratching

Although it is very hard to control the desire of scratching your neck, but healthcare providers strongly recommended avoiding vigorous scratching of the involved region. With scratching there is always a risk of introducing nails harbor germs and other microbial agents to the deeper layers of skin.

Drink Plenty of Water

In vast majority of cases, the primary pathophysiological event in the development of itchy skin is the dryness of skin. Wrong choice of soaps, cosmetics and other skin-care products can lead to excessive dryness of skin leading to itchiness and irritation. Increasing water intake to 2 liters per day can alleviate the symptoms.

Take a Cold Water Bath

Cold water bath is helpful in enhancing the pace of healing of skin and also provides a soothing effect to the irritated, inflamed skin. Fill a bath- tub with cold water and immerse yourself up to neck in this water for a period of at least 20 minutes. Make sure to repeat this practice at least twice a day especially in hot humid summers.

Massage

Essential natural oils like tea tree oil have natural anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. Oil massage is also helpful in replacing the lost moisture and hydration of your skin after a hot sunny day. Other helpful options for oil massage are jojoba oil, chamomile oil and sandalwood oil. Use can also mix one tea-spoon of the chamomile oil to your bathing water for early relief of itching and soothing sensation.

Apply Antibacterial Lotions

In situations when your symptoms are due to bacterial or fungal involvement, the appropriate choice of anti-bacterial lotion is the most suitable remedy for speedy recovery and early relief of symptoms. If you are diagnosed with psoriasis, scabies, eczema or other skin conditions, it is highly desirable to seek medical help to get benefitted from appropriate antibacterial or antifungal treatment regimen.

Other Tips

Maintain total abstinence from dehydrating agents like alcoholic beverages and caffeinated beverages (coffee and tea) to maximally retain the hydration content of skin. Try to avoid direct sun by staying indoors or using protective covering like a sun-screen or an umbrella. A healthy diet rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin E is very helpful in promoting rejuvenation of your skin cells.

Cautions

Often times, itchy neck and skin responds to scratching or lotions but if the symptoms are recurring, it is always ideal to seek appropriate medical help to restore normal skin. It is noteworthy that mild scratching can lead to widespread bacterial infection of skin if not taken proper care.