Nervous System Disorders
Other diseases can cause itching as well, especially those that affect the nerves. These include:
• diabetes
• multiple sclerosis
• shingles
• neuropathy
Medications
The following common medicines often cause rashes and widespread itching:
• antifungals
• antibiotics (especially sulfa-based antibiotics)
• narcotic painkillers
• anti-convulsant medications
Pregnancy
Some women experience itching when pregnant. It usually occurs on the breasts, arms, abdomen, or thighs. Sometimes this is due to a preexisting condition, such as eczema, that is made worse by the pregnancy.