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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Itching on scalp and constipation
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
Kevin Pho, MD
Boston - MA
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/ Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
Itching on scalp and constipation
by mark_123, Jul 15, 2007 12:00AM
Since last 4-5 months, I have itching on my scalp and problem of constipation. I have visited my regular physician as well as a dermatologist. Even after innumerable blood tests, nothing has been detected. I dont have any visible sign of rash anywhere except a few on my back which has now gone(without itching). The only abnormality (if I can call it so) in my blood tests have been
Glucose 104 (normal is 65-99) and Bilirubin 1.5 (0.2-1.2). My doctor didnt think that these are issues.
I get temporary relief from itching on taking Atarax 25mg (Hydroxyzine HCL) (I believe it is antihistamine) for 2-3 days and then the itching comes back and remains till I take this tablet again.
Also I have to take appreciable amount (never had to take such an amount in my entire life) of fiber and water (12 -14 glasses) to get relief from constipation.
I am totally at a loss to understand whats happenning. Can you think of any issue that is causing this? Could it be something serious and not getting diagnosed?
I have made an appointment with a gastroentrologist tomorrow but not sure what will happen.
Thanks for any clue/suggestion. I am 34 male.
Glucose 104 (normal is 65-99) and Bilirubin 1.5 (0.2-1.2). My doctor didnt think that these are issues.
I get temporary relief from itching on taking Atarax 25mg (Hydroxyzine HCL) (I believe it is antihistamine) for 2-3 days and then the itching comes back and remains till I take this tablet again.
Also I have to take appreciable amount (never had to take such an amount in my entire life) of fiber and water (12 -14 glasses) to get relief from constipation.
I am totally at a loss to understand whats happenning. Can you think of any issue that is causing this? Could it be something serious and not getting diagnosed?
I have made an appointment with a gastroentrologist tomorrow but not sure what will happen.
Thanks for any clue/suggestion. I am 34 male.
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Jul 16, 2007 12:00AM
, Jul 16, 2007 12:00AM
Itching and an elevated bilirubin can be indicative of primary biliary cirrhosis. Obtaining an ultrasound as well as further liver tests can be considered. I would also image the liver.
The definitive test to rule this out would be a biopsy, and can be considered if PBC is suspected.
The constipation can be caused by a variety of conditions. If it persists, a colonoscopy can be done to rule out anatomic causes as well as blood tests to rule out thyroid disease.
These options can be discussed with your personal physician.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
The definitive test to rule this out would be a biopsy, and can be considered if PBC is suspected.
The constipation can be caused by a variety of conditions. If it persists, a colonoscopy can be done to rule out anatomic causes as well as blood tests to rule out thyroid disease.
These options can be discussed with your personal physician.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
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