People often experience more itching in winter due to the dry air and lower humidity levels. The cold weather can strip the skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness and irritation. Indoor heating systems further exacerbate the problem by reducing humidity indoors. This combination of factors can cause the skin to become flaky, tight, and itchy, a condition commonly referred to as "winter itch."

But there are other less obvious reasons aside from the usual slew of skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, that make us itch. Here are some examples:

• Thyroid problems. According to WebMD, if your thyroid gland isn’t producing enough hormone you could feel tired, weak, achy and foggy-headed. You could also experience dry, itchy skin.

• Diabetes. Skin problems are often the first symptoms of diabetes. Diabetes-related itching can occur due to high blood sugar levels, which can lead to dry skin and poor circulation. This decreased blood flow, particularly to the extremities, can result in nerve damage and reduced moisture, both of which contribute to itching. Furthermore, people with diabetes are more prone to fungal and bacterial infections, which can also cause itching. It is essential to manage blood sugar levels effectively and maintain a good skin care routine to alleviate these symptoms.

• Cancer. Itching isn’t a common sign of this disease, but a type of blood cancer called polycythemia vera may cause it. You may also feel fatigued or have trouble breathing. Pancreatic cancer and lymphoma can also trigger itching. Cancer treatments can also cause itching, says WebMD.

•Tumors. Some tumors can lead to itching as well, especially those that grow on or near the spinal cord or brain stem. In some cases, the tumors themselves may release substances that cause itching, or the body's immune response to the tumor might trigger an itchy sensation.

• Stroke. A stroke can sometimes lead to itching due to nerve damage. When a stroke occurs, it can affect the brain's ability to process sensory signals correctly. This can lead to a variety of sensations, including itching, even in areas not directly affected by the stroke.

• Nerve disorders. Examples include multiple sclerosis, pinched nerves and shingles (herpes zoster), says the Mayo Clinic. Multiple sclerosis is a disease that damages the nervous system and can cause bouts of pain, tingling, burning or itching anywhere on your body. When a nerve is compressed, in the case of a pinched nerve, it can lead to a variety of symptoms, including itching, pain, tingling, and weakness in the affected area. This occurs because the pressure on the nerve disrupts its normal function, leading to abnormal sensations such as itching. The shingles virus can cause a painful, blistering rash with itch lasting for months after the rash is gone ─ another good reason to get the shingles vaccine.

• Psychiatric conditions. Anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder and depression can cause itching.

• Irritation and allergic reactions. Wool, chemicals, and soaps can irritate the skin and cause rashes and itching. Sometimes poison ivy or cosmetics cause an allergic reaction.

• Medications. Common culprits include antibiotics, antifungals, and narcotic pain killers like opioids. These drugs can sometimes cause an itchy reaction without a rash. Don’t change your medication without consulting a healthcare professional.