Sügel

Sügel is the Estonian term for itching, or pruritus, a sensory experience that prompts the affected person to scratch. It can be a mild, short-lived sensation or a persistent symptom lasting weeks or longer. Itching is a common feature of many skin disorders and can also arise from systemic conditions, nerve problems, or psychological factors.

Causes of sügel are diverse and are often categorized as dermatologic, systemic, neuropathic, or psychogenic. Dermatologic causes include dry skin, eczema, psoriasis, fungal infections, hives, and insect bites. Systemic causes may involve liver or kidney disease, iron deficiency, thyroid disorders, certain cancers, or adverse drug reactions. Neuropathic itching results from nerve damage or conditions affecting the nervous system, while psychogenic itching is related to stress, anxiety, or other psychiatric factors. Environmental triggers such as irritants, allergens, or extreme temperatures can also contribute.

Diagnosis typically relies on medical history and physical examination, with targeted tests to identify underlying causes. Investigations may include skin scrapings or swabs for infections, patch testing for contact dermatitis, blood tests for systemic diseases, and, in selected cases, imaging or nerve studies.

Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and address the underlying cause when possible. Approaches include regular skin hydration with moisturizers, avoidance of irritants, and topical therapies such as steroids or calcineurin inhibitors for inflammatory conditions. Antihistamines can help some patients, while persistent or severe cases may require phototherapy, neuropathic agents, or treatment of the underlying disease. Preventing scratching and managing triggers are key components of care.

See also: pruritus, dermatology.