Itch Burden

Minimal Itch Burden

Expressions activating this band show little clear itch-specific burden, with only diffuse health, pain, or future-related concern and no consistent pattern of itch intrusion or social disruption.

Mild Itch Burden

Expressions activating this band show itch or skin-related discomfort accompanied by embarrassment, self-consciousness, cleanliness concerns, or a wish to escape the sensation. The burden is personally distressing but remains only partly elaborated in daily or social functioning.

Moderate Itch Burden

Expressions activating this band show persistent itch that disrupts concentration and ongoing activity, with repeated scratching and concern about contamination or being touched. Social reactions become salient, including feeling avoided or treated differently because of the condition.

High Itch Burden

Expressions activating this band show severe, hard-to-control itch marked by scratching to the point of injury, fear that the condition will not resolve, and restriction of social or intimate activities. The burden is experienced as pervasive and visibly disruptive.

Severe Itch Burden

Expressions activating this band show overpowering itch with compulsive scratching, strong worry that contact will worsen symptoms, and pronounced awareness that the condition disturbs people nearby. The experience is dominated by irritation, loss of control, and interpersonal strain.

Candidate names

Sentence counts by range

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Anchor definitions