A mild irritation of the many tiny nerve endings in the skin. The medical name for itching is pruritus. Moderate itching may be due to insect bites or allergic reactions. More severe and lasting itching occurs in scabies and in infectious diseases, such as chicken pox, in which a rash occurs. Sometimes itching is the only early symptom of such serious disorders as Diabetes, liver disease, and Hodgkin's disease.The urge to scratch is instinctive in anyone who itches, but it may injure the skin and the tissues beneath the skin as well as result in infection. The best way to cure persistent itching is to have your doctor find out the cause. Temporary relief may be obtained by applying cold compresses, witch hazel, or calamine lotion.