Doctors classify itching lasting over six weeks as chronic, warning it can stem from weather, fungal infections, eczema, or systemic conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and kidney or liver diseases. The report highlights widespread self-medication and misuse of over-the-counter steroid creams.
A 2022 study across 13 Indian dermatology centres found 50.9% of patients with fungal infections misused steroid creams, which mask symptoms, aggravate infections, and cause adverse effects such as skin thinning and stretch marks. Medical experts advise consulting dermatologists for targeted treatments rather than following social media advice or relying on random creams.