itchy arms

   I get an intense itch om my forearms.  I go months without any itching then it seems to come back. The itch is so intense in some spots that I scratch the area so hard and leave a little scab area.  However since I started using a filtered shower head it seems to have reduced the reoccurence of the itch.  My skin seems to get very dry.  Could I possibly be allergic to chlorine.

[National Jewish]

Chlorine is an irritant rather than an allergenic substance.  Shower water contains a variety of chemical substances, including minerals, any of which might cause dry or inflamed skin.  Your best bet is to apply a moisturizing cream every day within 3 minutes of drying off after showering.  This will seal in the moisture that has just soaked into the skin during the shower, so the skin is less dry and itchy.  The best thing to use would be a combination of a moisturizing agent and a sun blocker.

[Nettie01]

[LKathy]

Have you read the recent comments on "itchy arms" posted this month?  Seems like something going on with this!

[mmagdalene]

I have almost the same re-occuring symtom as brently02, execpt mine is on the upper arm in one place.  I suffer from asthma and other respiratory problems and was surprised to find this here . . . Where did you see other itchy arm reports?

[ilene53]

A related discussion, Topamax possible side effects was started.

[pietbas]

A related discussion, Itchy arms no rash solution was started.