Extreme Itching all over body w/NO rash, welts or hives. - Dermatology

hairdied

Dec 11, 2011

To: heidibruitis

WOW--I have just had the SAME thing happen..for a WEEK now I have had a constant itch all over my body EXCEPT my hands, feet and face AND I had used a hair dye spray product for the FIRST time myself...it said to TEST it for 24 hours..I DID--no allergy..but it may take LONGER than 24 hours before the ALLERGY breaks out. NOW what/ I cant stop itching...have you found a way to STOP the problem from the hair DYE? I have already tried prescription creams, atarac pills and benadryl . i am SURE it came from the HAIR DYE...but now do i get rid of the allergic reaction now/? please reply to me at ***@****

abacab634

Dec 18, 2011

i have been really itchy every day and every night, i have no rash or nothing, it's the same amount of itching through the day. i have tried several medications and only one has slightly slowed down the itching but my doctor recommened i shouldn't take the medication for more than 5 days. does anyone have a suggestion of what it might be or anything to try help the itch?

medicaladvise

Dec 27, 2011

To: all

~ You all most probably have scabies, it starts off minor in one part of the body then slowly spread all over the body, best thing to do is apply oil all over your body every time after the shower and consult a doctor immediately before it spreads because soon oil will stop working to reduce itchiness... then if you can afford, buy a new bed mattress and duvet and pillow and use mud or salt baths to kill the bacteria in your skin and all over body apply this for weeks.. or a cheaper solution is to vacuum your bed and change bedsheets every few days ...and by doctor you should be prescribed something linked to dermnet to kill the scabies and mites that are releasing eggs all over your body...also never scratch your body when it itches because it spreads and the itching becomes worse and notice when your body is cold you will not feel any itchiness but as soon as your body is warm the itchiness increases this is because they are living organisms like you and need heat to survive... if your suffering soooo much keep your boy cold/cool by showering in cold water and last of all whatever you do, don't share towels

medicaladvise

Dec 27, 2011

To: GrandmaJC

you have scabies, use oils, salt baths and mud stuff to decrease it and consult doctor for dermnet medicines to kill off the scabies mights and clean ur bed by vacuuming the mattress and changing the bedsheets

ayor

Dec 27, 2011

To: everyone

I kid you not; at times I am suicidal, and I often think how great it would be to not have to scratch every inch of my body: my face, brows, eyelids, ears; scalp, my entire back; between my fingers and toes, the bottoms of my feet...well you get the picture! I'm miserable and I wake up finding blood on my face; on my back and all over my chest. I'm scratching as I'm writing this, and the only time it seems less bothersome is during the day.

I could never be in a relationship with anyone because, I wouldn't let the poor person sleep. Under my pillows, I keep a brush and a metal nail filer for hard to reach places. I've been itching for years. I take Atarax (25mg) to knock me out at night, but it obviously doesn't work, as I clearly scratch in my sleep. I spend a lot for cooling creams such as Sarna, and I try to cool my skin with a damp cloth. I will follow some of your helpful tips; I will pray and hope!

ayor

Dec 27, 2011

I kid you not; at times I am suicidal, and I often think how great it would be to not have to scratch every inch of my body: my face, brows, eyelids, ears; scalp, my entire back; between my fingers and toes, the bottoms of my feet...well you get the picture! I'm miserable and I wake up finding blood on my face; on my back and all over my chest. I'm scratching as I'm writing this, and the only time it seems less bothersome is during the day.

I could never be in a relationship with anyone because, I wouldn't let the poor person sleep. Under my pillows, I keep a brush and a metal nail filer for hard to reach places. I've been itching for years. I take Atarax (25mg) to knock me out at night, but it obviously doesn't work, as I clearly scratch in my sleep. I spend a lot for cooling creams such as Sarna, and I try to cool my skin with a damp cloth. I will follow some of your helpful tips; I will pray and hope!

Mizzy92

Dec 28, 2011

About 3 years ago my right palm started itching. The area was red and hot to the touch. I went to the pharmacy and they said I had been bitten by something and gave me antihistamines. The next day it had spread to my whole palm and the antihistamines were not working. I went to the doctor and he was quite shocked as he had never seen it before. He told me it was an infection underneath my skin and gave me a sling to keep my hand above my heart. This definitely helped with the itching (strangely enough). I had to sleep holding a frozen gel pack to help with the heat and the itching. After the next few days each of my fingers began to swell up like pork sausages. I couldn't bend them. I went back to the doctor and he did a blood test. He tested for allergies and diseases like lupus etc. All tests came back negative which annoyed me as the itching made me want to pull my hair out. After a week and a half of not being able to use my right hand - it started in my left hand; exactly the same place and same symptoms with my fingers etc. After 2 weeks my hands were back to normal. Throughout the past 3 years it has come back, but not as severe. About two months ago it came back really bad. swollen fingers, terrible itching and my hands were hot. What I did notice this time is that it was in both hands at the same time. Both thumbs would be swollen and itchy, then my ring fingers etc. I went back to the doctor and he made me go for a blood test to see if my body was reacting to something. I got the results back and he said I was having an allergic reaction, but I would have to go for a full screening to find out what it is. I am going for the test next week and hope the tests will clarify what is going on. It is rather frustrating and will post what the results are - hope to help others will the same \ similar problem.

wLiberty

Dec 31, 2011

I have itched for almost 4 years. The uncontrollable itch everywhere on my body.. no one else around me has gotten it. ZYRTEC and other Antihistamines control it.

I have been to about 9 Dr.'s and specialist. I have had my blood checked a dozen times and my only allergy they are aware of are cockroaches. It started at random, and have never had any allergic reaction.  From all my dealings I have formed some conclusion which was never certain.

ZYRTEC is a must.. for everyone itching uncontrollably right now.. take ZYRTEC or any other Antihistamine.. Zyrtec works best because it last the longest.. take it before bed for a good nights rest.. (and zombie like morning).  Bite 1 pill in half for half the length of time of relief but less drowsiness.  This is not a solution.. but it makes life bearable again, and until they can figure out what is wrong with me.. it is a must.

The primary term I hear the Dr.'s say is "Dermagraphism". Basically I itch all over.. then when I scratch, my skin flares up where I scratched. and I itch more because of the flare up.. a never ending cycle.  I am a 28 year old male and this came upon me suddenly about 4 years ago.  My head began to itch a lot, especially noticed it while laying in bed. Eventually my whole body began to itch, and has never stopped.  According to studies.. I had this condition as a hereditary trait, and I may never have true relief.

I have been going to a new Dr. for about a year now and He is so far the best and is trying to figure it all out.  Still within the medical field.. this condition is concluded as "Dermagraphism" and is said to be incurable, but treatable (through antihistamines, at least).  My concern is that 1 Zyrtec used to last about 3 1/2 days, and now, 4 years later 1 Zyrtec only last 32 hours before the itching creeps back in slowly..    I'm desperate to find a real cure.

The most recent test which I am waiting on results on was for all forms of Hepatitis which the Dr. thought was a good idea after identifying something abnormal with my liver according to an ultrasound.

A couple of the blood test which were conducted over the last 4 years showed an elevated red blood cell count.. they unfortunately has not determined anything, but through my own research points to liver functionality.  So hopefully my Dr. is on to something.

Im going to recommend having a vitamin check because the B12 deficiency sounds like a real possibility.

justinsantos_eic

Jan 04, 2012

***Hi, I'm 16 years old and I have the same experience on the itching scenario (w/o any scratches or red spots).I just can't remember when I got my first encounter to this problem, and just last year I have been searching in the net what was it all about. I have seen some articles (reliably perhaps) were the symptoms are same as what I've experience and I've seen some health-related diseases like Hodgkins lymphoma or Generalized Pruritus (?), and as of now, I'm planning to visit my doctor, just to make sure that everything will be okay. Last night, I got into bed to sleep, and after 30 mins on bed (still awake), the itchiness just arose (i got a good ventilation & i took a shower) and it made me scratch my back, my head, neck and abdomen (almost the whole body). Another is, when I've been into the Church or to serve in the altar, I experienced it also (on rare times & especially when it is hot).

alex49

Jan 06, 2012

To: texan_176

can you send me contact info for this doc, I am suffering with the same and no local doctor has been of much help

Bombchell

Jan 08, 2012

To: Godalwaysprovides

wow I too had a similar situation. I believe I am allergic to myself sometimes. I have a large goiter and I'm allergic to iodine too. If u find out anything please let me know.

Casi2

Jan 14, 2012

I have had this intense itching for almost 8 years now. No bumps, no rashes, no redness. Cannot sleep - up every hour on the hour due to itching. Wake up and feel like a zombie through the day. I can just be sitting and all of a sudden it feels like my blood is on fire as it surges through my upper limbs and across my upper chest. Like a zillion needle pricks on my upper inner arms, my belly and breasts. Started as intense itching on my inner thighs, hips, belly, inner upper arms, and breasts (the fleshy body parts) with tiny raised bumps that were clear, no redness. Now there are no bumps and itching is isolated to upper inner arms, belly, breasts.  I do not take any street drugs. I do not smoke or drink alcohol. I stopped taking all vitamins and supplements, and I stopped taking my blood pressure and cholesterol meds for several months to see if that might help. No relief. I have tried everything I can think of to the point that I moved from my country home to a place in town to get away from the farm water, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, insecticides, etc. Nothing helped. Everything I do, everything I use is as organic and free of dyes, perfumes, chemicals, etc. as I can find. Nothing helps. Been to 2 allergists, 2 dermatologists, 1 neurologist - not a clue. My primary care physician has had me on anti-anxiety meds in the past (cannot remember all the names) to no avail. The cold, dry winters make the itching wose. Excessive heat and humidity make the itching worse. I cannot hold a job or be in a relationship because the itching is disruptive and embarrassing. If this is what the rest of my life is going to be, I hardly see the point.

Thank goodness, today I found this forum.

Things I have found that has been somewhat helpful:

   1) A humidifier in the winter is a must
   2) Prednisone (somewhat helpful at making the itching more tolerable)
   3) Progesterone cream (if you are a woman and taking prednisone) to help control flushing
   4) Sarna lotion (Wal-Mart, Walgreens) with camphor and menthol
   5) Keep body moisturized
   6) Try to stay physically active during the day to keep mind off itching

Things I will now try, thanks to this forum:

   1) Ask my PCP for Ambien to help me sleep at night and B12 injections
   2) Check out betametasone to see if it is legal/harmful/available

Thank you for listening.

tps4jesus

Jan 16, 2012

To: Casi2

I have had this horribly painful pin-***** type itching that manifests itself immediately after every shower (always a cool one) and everytime I am exposed to heat. I can't cook, eat or drink hot foods (even Frank's Red Hot Sauce!?!) or beverages, do dishes in warm water, fold warm laundry or sustain moderate activity in even climate controlled spaces (70 deg. F) for more than 5 to 10 minutes without being overcome by my "monster within". It started about 6-7 weeks ago and would happen 1-3 times a week. Since the beginning of the year, it has been a daily plague, afflicting me as many as a dozen times a day. The duration is usually from 1-5 minutes. The only way I can get relief is to retreat to an area where the tempurature is 40 to 60 deg. F. Sometimes, in a pinch, I will remove as many clothes as possible and rub myself with a wet towel and stand in front of a fan. One Dr. (with absolutely NO bedside manner) told me, "Well, it could be anything. I don't know what it is." Then of course she asks if I am using any new soaps, deodorants, detergents. Duh, lady...I already went through all that. Why am I paying you to ask me stupid questions? Oh, that's right...you are running a 'practice' here. She tried prednisone - did not work. I finally saw my PCP and he tried Hydroxazine - did not work. I am going on my third week of missing work and they are getting pissed. I wrote something and see if you agree with it: A PERSON'S SYMPATHY FOR A SICK OR SUFFERING CO-WORKER IS INVERSELY PROPORTIONATE TO THE DEGREE TO WHICH THEY ARE INCONVENIENCED BY THE ABSENCE OF THAT SICK CO-WORKER. I am going to see my PCP tomorrow and demand that he do blood tests to look for any abnormalities at all. I want him to look for bacteria, fungi, parasites, abnormalities in red or white blood cells. We are the patients and we pay the Doctor's salaries. We must take charge of our own health care and not leave it up to the Doctor's or we may never find out what is going on with our bodies. Be proactive. Do not take no for an answer. I, for one, am not leaving my PCP's office until I get the tests that I want.

libby121

Jan 16, 2012

To: tps4jesus

I have had the same problem with prickly itch and red blotching when l get hot, am cooking, or take a hot shower. I have had this problem ever since my doctor had me go through 5 different antibiotics for a really bad chest infection. Ever since l have had this problem and l have no control over it unless l want to live in 40degree temps to keep my body heat down. Like you warm laundry, cooking and doing the housework which generally puts my body heat up. I break out with the prickly itch, red blotching and my body feels like it is burning. I honestly think it was brought on by the over pescribing of the antibiotics and other meds.When l talked with my doctor about it he just ignored me and gave me no answer. After trying to find out online what might be causing this, l am concerned that it could be something serious and l am just not getting the answers l need. Time to change my doctor l think. Also been thinking about a total body cleanse to clean the toxins from my system and starting a regime of eating more fresh foods and a whole lot less produced food. With all the meds that have their bad reactions and all the produced foods with which we don't know what is being put into them, we may just be hurting our bodies with what we are putting into them.

Lyressa

Jan 16, 2012

To: tps4jesus

You are so right, we do have to take control of our own healthcare. Those who do not suffer what we are suffering, do not have a vested interest, and therefore are disinterested.

I have had this same itching for about 8 years now. It's so much better now than it used to be. I used to hate taking a bath or shower because when I got out I wanted to do nothing but claw my skin off.

This is where mine takes a strange turn from what I've seen elsewhere. When I used to get sweaty or a little overheated, I would start itching like crazy...but I later found out, that if I step into a hot sauna or steam room or take an extremely hot bath or shower, my itching goes completely away (after a little soaking) and I can function the rest of the day or night fine and my skin feels blessedly wonderful. My doctors even think that is wierd. When I'm asleep, I have no itching whatsoever, but my skin tingles upon waking up in the morning...I've attributed that to dread of getting up and being bored.

Another thing I found is that I cannot eat "manufactured' french fries. If I eat fries from BK, JoB or fake french fries from a restaurant, the next day I feel like someone poured acid on my skin (painful nerve-ending burning). But I can eat "real" french fries (from In-N-Out) with no issues. I also have to limit the amount of sweets I intake because too many sweets will send me into a fit of itching the next day. I've also changed my diet a bit and eat more fish and veggies.

I've also started eating some foods without gluten... I'm not completely gluten free...not really sure how to go about it, but this may have helped me a little.

I also have a very effective space heater at my desk that I turn on if the painful stinging starts. After about 5 minutes with that blowing on me, the stinging stops. I'm not sure if it is just soothing or what, but it works for me.

I was on Lorazepam for about 4 years because it was the only thing that helped to stop the itching in its tracks, but I DO NOT suggest that. I've been Lorazepam free since mid-September and I've had massive panic attacks like you would not believe since getting off of that poison. I expect to have a few more for a few more months and then I hope those go away. It can take, I've heard, 6 months to a year to stop feeling the withdrawal side-effects from that stuff. At bedtime, I take a Valarian and a Melatonin and it has stopped the morning "tingles" almost completely (after several weeks of absorbsion). I'll check with my doctor this week about long-term implecations of this...hope it's ok, but I can't imagine it would be worse than Lorazepam.

I'm going to check with my doctor this week about getting a vitamin and mineral test done to see if I'm deficient in anything, but I think my issue is mosting due to stress and diet considering my itching has diminished so much since July 2011. I'm going in this week to go over the results of a liver ultrasound, a chest Xray and a bone marrow biopsy.

Oh, I almost forgot, and I don't think this has anything to do with my itching considering my itching has been around so much longer than this issue, but I'm currently going through tests to find out why my blood work is so wonky. I have an elevated RBC, WBC and Platelet count. My doctors suspect PV (Polycythemia Vera), but I don't think that's it. PV has been known to cause itching, but again, my itching was around long before my blood cells counts went crazy. I think my blood cells counts are going crazy because of detox from Lorazepam as well as an extremely painful detox diet I was on right before my blood was taken. The detox diet released so many toxins into my bloodstream that my joints and muscles were in extreme pain for days. I had to take pain medication to alleviate that.

Anyway, just my two cents worth...

kbuck60989

Jan 20, 2012

To: Margie590

Hiya - I have just found these posts and like you I am suprised to find others who are suffering with the same symptoms as me. You especially describe the same thing - itching/pricking that starts when I am warm/hot, try to do excercise, or if I am frustrated or agitated. I suffered these symptoms first when I was 17yrs and they lasted for 3 yrs, then stopped. Since then I have lived with Ulcerative Colitis and had lots of surgery. After my last lot in 2003 I was left with an ileostomy and the pricking was back. I have had it now for 8 further years and I have had every test that my local NHS could think of. The only meds I now have are Gabapentin, and it doesn't really touch it. It does make life really miserable.
Hopefull between us we will sort out what the cause is.

tinaangel99

Jan 20, 2012

I have been itching all over my body for 2 weeks now and it is getting bad as heck my fiance doent itch but i do bdly i hate it if someone knows how to get rid of it please let me know ok thanks i have been itching all over my arms legs hands and feet someone help me please

santina6519

Jan 25, 2012

I also had full body itching. I felt like I had rolled in fiberglass. I had no rashes or visible symptoms just itching. This was a head to toe itch; all day, all night. After about 2 weeks it got to the point where I could no longer sleep so I went to the Dr. After blood tests, ultra sound and CT scans it was found that I had a tumor on my pancreas. The tumor was pushing on my gall bladder which in turn cause an excess of bile to be produced. My body couldn't process the bile which caused the itch. Not to freak anyone out but I wanted to relay my story. I'm only 34 and my Dr had not seen anything like this before. Get checked out and look at all the possibilities. If it is pancreatic cancer catching it in the early stages is the most important thing.

Rachel121987

Jan 30, 2012

To: Everyone

I have had the same itchy symptoms for about 7 years now. I rarely ever experience any itching in the morning before 12 and it mostly occurs around 5.30ish every night with the exception of starting at about 1, 2 oclock some days.

I have been to see many different doctors to try and get help some of which who have completely fogged me off and others which have referred me to dermatology, immunology and for genriatric medicine where i had a ECG and several other skin examinations which were all fine I have had a dozen blood tests which have tested for everything they possibly can and they have all come back fine.

It always occurs when i am warm and when i am in bed or sat by a fire or radiator. It is the exact same itch that you all describe like pin pricks all over my body and there is not one place where i dont itch! I rarely go a day without itching and when i do there is nothing that I have noticed i am doing different!

I am taking Atarax 25mg at night which may have improved it slightly but nothing significent. I am also on Citalopram 10mg as we thought it could be nerve and anxiety related but this has not helped. I take Cetrizine 25mg every morning and again have not noticed any improvement and also have started taking vitamin B12 but again no change? This is ruining my life and I would love nothing more than to get some answers! PLEASE HELP! :(

lbourgeois

Feb 01, 2012

I'm treating myself with Bragg apple cider vinegar. 1-2 tbsp of vinegar to 1 cup of warm bottle water or previously boiled water.
To much yeast in my body is making me itchy!!!!

josie3

Feb 03, 2012

To: lbourgeois

Thats exactly what it is - candida yeast. I suffered for years and was told to read body ecology book by donna gates - i did the detox and it has never returned.

circusfreak

Feb 04, 2012

To: ayor

I too have the same issue. I have other medical conditions but this has been a new edition to my other symptoms. No rash but the past few years it was just always on the back of my legs. Now the past few days its intense and everywher, I mean litterally everywhere. Even my nipples. No rash redness obviously from the scratching and benadryl only helps put me to sleep hard enough not to scratch but about two hours after taking it im scratching myself awake. I can not stand this any longer i will be trying to go to the ER tonight but they more than likely will send me home with a script for itch and say im alleric to something and see an allergist. So I don't know if I will go but as I'm typing my eyes are itching and my face. It jumps around from spot to spot of whats the most severe but there is no end or palce th doesnt itch at one point within the hour. I looked up some stuff and could be cancer of the blood. Oh joy! I hope it;s not but hard to convince a doctor your itchiness is cancer related and to test for it. They would rather chalk it up to poison ivy even if there is no rash. if anyone figures it out plz plz plz let me know I cant keep scratching like this at work they think im contagious. And its hard to hide when you carry a hair brush around scratching every inch of yourself.

itchyone92

Feb 11, 2012

To: pinguinos

I have something similar. About 12 years ago, I began having terrible allergies. I started taking Claritin around that time but only seasonally. About three years after that, I began to itch. It started in my legs only and eventually spread to my whole body. There is no sign of anything like bumps, hives or a rash. It seems to move in waves over my body and is extremely intense. The dermatologists can't figure out what's causing it.

My tolerance for Claritin has increased to the point that it won't stop allergies but I still take it for itching. Only 2.5 mg of Claritin per day can stop the itching or at least keep it at a manageable level.

Obviously if Claritin works then the itching is caused by a histamine reaction. I am almost inclined to believe that Claritin is causing the itch and helping it at the same time. I have also considered that a vaccine caused the itching to begin (possibly an immune system stimulant like squalene?) I got the MMR vaccine exactly 5 years before the itching began. It may sound like a conspiracy but I wonder if a time release immune stimulant could be put in a vaccine. Cold temps seem to spark the itching. It is the worst right after I get out of the shower. Heat and warm temps help. The itching disappears when I fall asleep.

lilfaye

Feb 17, 2012

To: californiawoman298

Are you still having the itching problem now 2 years later - please advise.
you can email me at hammer_lillian***@****

Bill2111

Feb 21, 2012

To: lilfaye

Please help! I am 32 and about 4 months ago the back and sides of my scalp started to itch. i was always wearing a ball cap at work and use to sweat in it so i stopped wearing the hat to see if that was the problem. Well here i am 4 months later still with a very itchy flaky scalp and a itchy back, waistline, armpits, legs and butt. Skin looks normal but of course becomes red after scratching and when i take a hot shower the spots that itch become very red. I have tried all kinds of creams and allergy meds but nothing really helps. I also have a 6 year old daughter and a 4 year old son that are always complaining about the back of their heads itching. My wife is fine so far. I have been to see my doctor and had a blood test which can back fine and was prescribed a cream and a oil for my scalp which does give me some relief. I guess the doctor thinks that it is exzema (eczema) but i'm not so sure about that. What do you guys think???

Joaik

Feb 23, 2012

To: californiawoman298

I have had this problem for about 10 years, sometimes its bearable but other times its totally unbearable.My skin is not the problem, it something from inside but I dont know what causes it.I had my kidneys checked and they are ok.it drives me crazy and seems to get worse with the dry air and heater running in winter.I tich all over my body randomly, it attacks my all of a sudden and makes me very very irritated and impatient with others.Any more ideas helpful!!

Harvan

Feb 26, 2012

To: Everyone

Awesome forum - there's lots of good info in here, and new stuff I think I should try.

I've been having problems off and on with what I thought were skin allergy issues.  Since I was about 24 or so, the tops of my feet would start itching randomly, and they just WOULD NOT STOP.  I could rub them, scratch them, put moisturizers on them, rub them with hydrocortizone cream, put cold packs on them, put hot packs on, take antihistamines, take pain killers... nothing would help.  It would last for a little while (between a couple of days and a couple weeks), then just sorta go away on its own.

In the last couple of weeks, I've had a flare-up that's been much worse than anything before.  My feet have been itching so bad they burn and hurt, to the point that I simply can't ignore them.  And the rest of my body itches too, in random places.  There is no rash, no raised bumps, no sign of any actual allergic reaction.  But if I touch ANY part of my body with another part (fingers to chest, fingers to feet, toes to heel, etc.), the itching in the touched spots becomes much worse and I get a raised blotch there.  The contact rash is the worst on my sides and my wrists, but really happens anywhere I touch.

In this latest round, my doctor basically said "Oh, I'm so sorry, I wish there was something more I could do," and sent me to an allergist.  I'll be going in for some tests, but previous allergy tests have told me I have some environmental allergies, but all of them are easily controlled with over-the-counter antihistamines.  The fact that this particular issue cannot be controlled that way worries me.

A few interesting notes:

The last three times I've had blood work done, the doctor has noticed a slightly elevated level of liver enzymes (SGPT) and a vitamin D deficiency.  I was told the Vitamin D deficiency could be contributing to depression, but otherwise shouldn't be causing any serious issues.  The liver enzymes weren't of major concern, as many pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen can artificially raise them and I didn't seem to have any other symptoms of liver dysfunction.  Perhaps something's changed there, tho.

Also, it's worth noting that I can touch my wife on any part of her body and she has no adverse reaction.  She can also touch me and not cause the same kind of reaction in me as when I touch myself.  It's almost like my skin is allergic to itself.

Finally, I'll note that I've had this problem for more than 10 years, having lived in half a dozen different places during that time.  I currently have six cats, but I had this problem while living completely cat-free.  I had it down in California, as well as in Washington where I live now.  The itching doesn't seem to get any better or worse at any particular time of the day, or in any particular environment (just as bad at work as at home).  No worse with any particular kind of food or drink, or even if I go without food for a while.

I saw a number of people here say that exposure to heat seemed to make the problem worse.  In my case, it's pretty much the opposite - heat seems to help the symptoms a bit, while exposure to cold IMMEDIATELY worsens the problem.  I've taken to scalding my feet with the hottest water I can stand, just to get a few hours of relief.  Not a good long-term solution.

I also noticed that certain actions with my hands cause them to hurt as though the nerves inside them are badly inflamed.  This includes gripping objects with my fingers (pressure on fingers causes them to hurt for about a minute afterward), clapping my hands (my palms feel inflamed afterward), and sliding my hands across fabric (my hands feel hypersensitive).  This is not normal for me either.

We're pretty sure it's not poison oak/ivy, and that it's not due to parasites such as scabies, fleas or bedbugs (otherwise, my wife would have been having issues with this too - we know that she's much more allergic to those than I am).

I'm at my wits' end.  This problem is ruining my life and threatening my mental stability.  I can barely function because of it - I hope something turns up that will at least explain what might be going on.

Scalded

Mar 01, 2012

To: All here

My condition began 14 months ago with the drug Arthrotec which gave me hives and made me allergic to Ibuprophen and ASA. At first they covered my body but got them under some control with the steroid Prednisone. I do get painful itchy hives and bumps everywhere still but have them under some level of control with diet and supplements. But the overriding issue now is that my skin feels prickly stinging scalded, itchy and like it's been gone over with sandpaper.(but nothing showing) Highly sensitive to cold and drafts and sweat and the weight and feel of certain clothes. Sometimes I have to wear only a loose tshirt and pants and then sit with a blanket over me. Definitely feels better when I'm up and around moving-raised body temperature and circulation helps. My diet is so restrictive because so many things aggravate this condition and also bring the hives and bumps back-(the bumps are mega itchy and pressurized-painful. Sometimes I tear them out of my palms.) I can't eat tomatoes potatoes eggplant peppers most fruit except a green apple a day and dark blue/purple black berries. No wheat, most other grains, eggs dairy condiments,sugar of any kind, no spices. I only eat organic meats and try to eat only organic veggies and apples. I eat fish and brown rice. Nothing canned and nothing fried. No booze -not even wine in cooking. Life is very challenging now and expensive. Been seeing a naturopath for 8 months but they haven't really figured it out. Next I'm going to see a Doctor of traditional Chinese medicine-it's not science but they seem to have success treating these kinds of things.(TCM would classify all skin conditions as manifestations of too much fire or heat inside the body) I'm willing to try anything that has had success. My Doctor's advice was more steroids-no thanks -same as the dermatologist -steroids. Do believe that stress plays a role and that the drug I took kicked up an immuno problem that is hard to come back from because the body keeps attacking what it percieves to be harmful invaders. Also I've been up and down with my belief that it may or may not be candida and the "leaky gut" condition associated with it. My doubt centres around the fact that I've been on a highly restrictive diet and probiotics for 12 months-shouldn't this condition ease off then? I see that many others' problems here are similar to mine. Will post again once I'm getting the TCM treatment and let you all know whether it helped. Good luck to all.

MSL1953

Mar 03, 2012

To: libby121

I began pelleted hormone replacement therapy a couple months ago, withing 2 weeks, I had severe itching that began just in private areas, now it is all over, I'm like everyone else, afternoon/evening is worse, especially when I try to go to sleep! I have been nowhere that I could contract scabies! When I went for my second injection of the pellets, that is when it got worse, all over, I think even my hair on my head itches! It is miserable, am so tired, but having trouble sleeping! That was the only thing that had changed in my life, so kind of think related to that! I am on B12 that dissolve under the tongue, wonder if I could just increase that???

tobs117

Mar 03, 2012

To: santina6519

Thanks santina6519.so what did your doc do about d pancreas tumor

lilPnut

Mar 04, 2012

My naturopathic doctor told me it might be my liver. He told me to try urtica and cilantro (which you can get in liquid form and add drops to water). I haven't been able to find urtica so I'll have to order it from somewhere. Anyways, maybe that can help someone.

teachelp

Mar 05, 2012

To: All

Please Please help! I am 25 and I have been itching like crazy for the past 7 months! It is to a point that I can't run of work out because every time i sweat it feels like my skin is burning and itching itself to shreads, like i'm allergic to my sweat. I shower and I can't scrub the itchyness away. My skin and scalp have never been so dry in my life and no matter what different soaps shampoos or lotions i try nothing is stopping it. The other day i was itching the side of my big toe till it started bleeding. it feels like things are inside of my skin sometimes. please please please help! I can't stand this anymore. it hurts! its not just irritating any longer! it is painful!

Help718

Mar 07, 2012

To: MSL1953

I was going thru the same thing for months. I went to the allergist 3 different times for 3 different tests and everything came back normal. I went to 4 different dermatologists and they all gave me the runaround. Telling me not to use this and not to use that. I followed everyones advice and ate better but my skin still iched, especially at night. My private area, butt and legs were the main areas that iched.I was depressed, in pain and pissed off. I finally went to see a 5th dermatologist and she gave me medicine for Scabies. I was offended at first because I wasnt sure what she was trying to say. I always thought of Scabies as only a sexually transmitted disease but she explained to me that there are a lot of other ways to catch it. She gave me a Scabies medicine called Premethrin. Its a cream that you put all over your body (except your face). You put the cream on just for one day then wait a week to put a second application. Its better that you put the cream on at night and wash the cream off in the moring. You want to have the cream on for at least 8 to 14 hours before you wash it of. Like I said after a week you put the cream on again. I was sufferenig with irritated, red icthy skin for 8 months and after I took the Premethrin my skin started to get back to normal.I'm so upset that I suffered and spent so much money trying things that didnt work. ###YOU GOT TO MAKE SURE that after you use the cream you WASH ALL of your clothes, sheets and pillows. Clean your entire home because Scabies is VERY contagious. I have no idea how I got it but I know how I got rid of it!!!!! Go to the dermatologist and bring it up to your doctor. Give it a try!!!! I really hope this works for you and anyone reading this post! I been through it and I wouldn't wish this on anyone. Take care!

Kitten3357

Mar 09, 2012

To: Severe itching! I think I may go mad! possibly MS

I have had severe itching just like most of you. It started when I was 16. It started with one leg and eventually the other. Sometimes its just my arms that itch. It so intense I want to scream. I've cried several times because it is so intense.no physical signs of rashes or bumps. It lasts for about an hour then completely disappears. After the episode, I'm so exhausted and sleepy..these happens maybe once or twice a year. It's embarrassing when you are with others. Nothing seems to help.
Well, last year I was unexpectedly diagnosed with MS. I just found out the itchiness is a symptom of it.. I am going to talk to my doctor about this. I've had every blood test known to man and everything came out normal for other possible diseases. I really hope this is a symptom because they can stop telling me I have primary progressive MS and start treating this horrible thing I've been dealing with for years. Btw, I'm 35 now, still dealing with it

jayboater

Mar 10, 2012

To: All

Have you tried changing laundry soap and all hand soaps, cosmetics, lotions, etc. to a dye free clear hypoallergenic product? Many of you describe itching in areas ie., waist, privates, feet, ankles, arms, etc that put your skin in contact constantly with your clothing or bed sheets. In my case, my family is allergic to blue dye in soaps and possibly beverages, foods, etc. Green dye is usually blue dye plus yellow in everything. So try to re wash everything once or twice in soap or detergents that have no fragrance nor dyes. It's helping my itch a lot. Avoid tight fitting clothes as that increases sweating, especially in the waist and ankles. I hope this helps some. I'm a retired pharmacist.

missnz

Mar 11, 2012

To: Joaik

Hi Joaik,

That is awful that you have suffered for so long. I too had the same issue, but I did an elimination diet and found that I was sensitive to salicylates, an acid found in most fruits, vegetables, cured meats and some medications etc.

This may not be the case for you however, but I would suggest doing an elimination diet. I have also heard that aspartame (artificial sweetener found in diet drinks) and celiac disease can cause this too.

Here is a website that I use regularly for my salicylate intolerance: http://salicylatesensitivity.com/info3/. It lists the symptoms, and itchy skin with no rash is one of the top on the list! Who could have thought that fruits and vegetables could do this to us?! It is so good being free from the itching finally.

Hope you find your answer, but it could also be a vitamin deficiency for you, but I would try with an elimination diet first.

lexi992

Mar 12, 2012

To: all

so ive been itching since august right before i went on an up north trip with my boyfriend. when i came back home it went from occuring on my stomach to my breast and i couldnt stop itching. it would drive me crazy... i wanna go to the doctor because it jumped from these areas to everywhere.. they usually occure after the shower or when im laying in the bed usually evening time.. i really have been searching everywhere on the internet to find someone having the same issues.. and if they had a cure... its definitly caused scaring everytime i itch but i really cant help it at all:( ive tried caulimine lotion and aveno but of coarse all it did was temperally stop them and here they come back again. please help me:(

jg7474

Mar 14, 2012

To: Everyone

I'm 37 and healthy. One night I woke up at 3am and just started itching from my neck down with no hives or rashes. I've been itching for just under a week with barely any sleep. I just started an antibiotic DOXYCYCLINE(antibiotic with an anti-inflamatory), which seems to be helping. This is day 2 of this prescription. I don't itch as much and I actually got sleep last night. I have appt for physical next week and I will have them check levels in blood work. This forum has helped me deal with this situation, not going crazy! Will keep everyone posted also if any changes

biggie13

Mar 16, 2012

To: Casi2

avoid clorine water(to drink), Avoid sucrolose or splenda. Items like birth control, with wine or spirts, timed released medications, seasoned salt, splenda, clorine water. When taken in combinations raises the toxins in the blood causing < a rash with out raised bumps, sensitve to heat, all over iching. started with hives, stoped went away, returned rash maybe hives, iching burning, get worse as time goes on.

cutebaby13

Mar 16, 2012

To: All

Hi here is my experience about itchy skin. I had itchy skin for many months. I could't sleep and I didn't have rash or hive. I scatched my skin and it would just turn red and turned normal if I stop scratching or sometimes I scatched too much so made a lot of scars on the skin. I went to see family doctor. Did blood test, nothing wrong. I did skin test and no big problem. Then she referred me to see Deminologist. Also nothing wrong. Finally, I went to see a Chinese doctor. He gave me some Chinese medicine to drink. Kind of bitter. Cos he said I am lacking blood, although my blood test is normal. And now I dont have itchy skin. I still have itchy head during my period but I am a lot better than before. I had an operation on my neck before, therefore it would take a lot of time for me to recover completely. For those who have itchy skin, you can try to find a Chinese doctor with good reputation and see if that will help. Because for western doctors, they will usually do some tests and give u some medicine to put on. If the tests results are good, then they can only give you some cream to relieve itching. Chinese doctors emphasize how to maintain health. Also, exercise helps blood circulation and will help relief itchy skin too. Hope this help.

Dizzylizzie23

Mar 19, 2012

I've got the same symptoms and I'm twelve. My friends think it might be just an allergic reaction, but I'm not allergic to anything but pollen and dust, and this has never happened before. I've only had it for two weeks, so my mom doesn't want to take me to a dermatologist yet, but it gets really itchy in school, and since it's on my stomach and chest too, I can't scratch it. I'll just start twitching because it's so itchy.

rose042558

Mar 22, 2012

I have had this itchy condition since I was a little girl.  I itch all over my body, but it happens when the seasons are changing.  Usually twice a year; winter to spring and fall to winter.   (like right now).

It get worse if I am exposed to the sun or hot water.  It feels if I am allergic to the Sun or to my own sweat.  Usually goes away in winter and in summer.   I took Clarinex and help me a lot, but it got my blood pressure up.

  I will try Zyrtec.

rose042558

Mar 22, 2012

I have had this itchy condition since I was a little girl.  I itch all over my body, but it happens when the seasons are changing.  Usually twice a year; winter to spring and fall to winter.   (like right now).

It get worse if I am exposed to the sun or hot water.  It feels if I am allergic to the Sun or to my own sweat.  Usually goes away in winter and in summer.   I took Clarinex and help me a lot, but it got my blood pressure up.

  I will try Zyrtec.

ChelseaDagger

Mar 26, 2012

To: suzyq1956

Spam, spam spam spam! Don't advertise your silly placebo here. I'm glad it worked for your psychosomatic hives (if you are a real person and not just someone profiting off the sale of sugar spray), but it cannot and won't possibly work for someone who has actual allergies and isn't just imagining their symptoms.

ToothFairyK

Mar 29, 2012

To: EVERYONE

I started breaking out in a mild rash a couple months ago on my legs, only below the knees and then little patches on my arms. My whole body itches almost constantly. I have had issues with itchy scalp wihich my dermotologist said was from an excess build up of yeast. I have had 4 biopsys now in the last month & today he said my blood work showed nothing, but the biopsy showed a sign of a gluten allergy. So he took 2 more biopsys today to confirm that. I itch the worse in the evening/night time, and like others, I wake up with blood everywhere as well. The bumps are starting to go away & the scabs healing, even though I did break out with a few more on my leg. I had knee surgerey on the 14th of February and it had started a week or 2 before that. Nothing helps with the itch. I orgionally went to the ER and they told me I had Folicuitis which is inflammation of the hair folicles, put me on antibiotics & gave me some hydrozyzine and sent me on my way....didn't help. So the dermatologist is running tons of tests and gave me doxepin for the itch which helps, but doesnt take it away....I want to figure this out cause I hate this itching and my legs looks so gross from the sores cause now thye are scars & still scabs.... I'm just glad i'm not alone & other people are going through this to without answers....

bdarnell85

Apr 04, 2012

I have been itching all over my body for about a week now and i have no idea why. i itch my back so much that it gets red and hurts. same thing with my legs and stomach and head. it keeps me awake. i havent tried anything for it yet. i was hoping that i had some illergec reaction to something and it would just go away. its driving me crazy. if anyone has anything that could help please let me know

Silver182

Apr 06, 2012

To: bdarnell85

I'm sorry to here about your itching problem, and all others on this forum. I have always loved to be scratched..my skin always seemed to be rejuvenated by lightly scratching...almost anywhere. That was for 64 1/2 of my years.
Well now, since late January 2012..hell has come to visit me! At first I could manage to sleep a few hours a night...now my "itching everywhere" is getting serious. I itch everywhere even inside my ears..bottom of feet..hands..fingers all over virtually every square inch of my God for-saken body. I now finally went to the doctor...so far just full blood tests of all kinds....CT scan of my chest including liver, heart, with dye to check for blockages, tumors, stones, anything that might be out of the ordinary. The Dr. did prescribe 30 days of a sleeping pill..and what a blessing that has been for the last two days....to actually be able to sleep for 5 or 6 hours straight. No one so far seems to have a clue as to what is going on. When I find something out for sure I will post it.

Nikki5588

Apr 09, 2012

To: Silver182

I am itchy all day but only on my legs... so frustrating.. does anyone know why??

ladypants

Apr 10, 2012

To: All

My parents have had this problem for 28 years, and in the past year my two brothers and I have also "caught" it. No doctors have ever believed them, saying its all imagined. From Google-ing the symptoms the closest match is something called "Morgellans disease". And thusfar the most relief we found is from taking a bath in Eukalyptus oil, twice to three times a day. We need to make Dr's aware that this is a very real and serious condition, NOT psychosomatic. The more people they know off that suffer from this mystery the disease the more they will be pressured to do something about it. And any advice anyone has will be appreciated to be rid of this constant itching, crawling stinging sensations.

Lisa1540

Apr 15, 2012

To: all

I to have been itching all over since Nov.2011. I am still itching as of today. It has gotten better since I started using vaseline after my showers. I have tried benadryl and it relieves the itching , but you have to take it everyday. Anihistimines dry you out, so it can't be good to take continuosly. Itching occurs as soon as I lay down for bed or when my body heats up during hot flashes. My skin all of sudden became very dry and looking like it was losing its elasticity. I am menopausal, I am thinking this is the reason this happening to me. I don't know i am not sure. I did stop taking the benadryl, and started concentrating on moisturizing my skin to stop the itching. Vaseline has been a lifesaver!!! The itching still occurs, but very little itching, so it is getting better. I had hives and itchy bumps, dry round patches on my skin that would surface while scratching. Scaring because of the scratching, blood on my shirts and blouses from scratching back and arms. Just scared me to death!!! So I have been drinking more water trying to flush toxins out all I know is that it is getting better. I personally think it is stress and bad nerves.

JakeFrost

Apr 19, 2012

Hi,
I have been itching for about 2 - 3 days now, I think I have scabies, but I'm not sure, my mom says it's maybe an allergic reaction I got from a tanning salon that I went to about 2 - 3 days ago, but based on the information that others have submitted it feels that I may have gotten it from using towels that my brother, mom, dad, and others have used, I'm really nervous because I REALLY don't want to have this itch for 8 years or even up to a month, it's been keeping me awake for the last days and I don't know what I can do to make it go away, this has never happened before, the first time I sensed any real need to scratch myself was about 6 months ago, I used to use my keys to scratch my legs because that's were the itching always came from, it would only happen when I woke up, but then it slowly started becoming more and more common to find me scratching my legs at school, I didn't know what was going on, and didn't at the time because then there was no serious issue with it, but now I can really feel it. It's the first summer day today, and I'm awake at 7:30 AM (I'm 16 so I should be sleeping right now) and it's due to itching why I'm up so early, I can't go see a doctor today because none of the hospitals are open at the moment. It doesn't show any rashes, well none that really last for a decade, just some scars on my legs that go away after every up to 1 day to 2 days maximum, which is good then it doesn't expose the possible infection/allergy to other people including the girl I like, I know how queer this is going to sound when I say this but I have thought about that it might just have been bottled up feelings that I hadn't shared with her and had gotten so bad that it started to have an impact on my health, but I don't know right now, there are so many things that could been the fault for this itching, my only hope for today is try to survive this hell and go see a doctor tomorrow to see what's going on. If you have any other suggestions as to get it to stop permanently without me going to the doctor please, reply to this comment, it'd really help me out a lot.

mountainguyitching

Apr 19, 2012

To: ANYONE

VITAMIN E-OIL 70,000 IU , I took and rub on my sore spots, then days later broke out in a rash, itchy, welts, hives. does any one know what to do to stop the itch? please help, please

ancpink

Apr 19, 2012

To: all

i am going on about two years of this crazy itching. I have been to a few different doctors. Since i already see a few for a number of health problems that i have. The itching starts on the inside of my body. almost like in my nerve endings,then it goes to the outside of my body. Things that make it flare up are, stress, hot showers, getting angry or sad, laying in bed and not being comfotable. Forget about excersice,or cleaning to much. The minute my body heats up i can feel it in my body. I already have psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis,which i take a pretty potent shot for those. I was thinking maybe the shot is doing it to me, then my therapist said it sounded like some type of allergy. I have never heard of any allergies like this before. If anybody can help please :)

robbob8

Apr 20, 2012

I am a 62 yr old male.I have itchy and at times feels what I call prickly skin. Head to ankles. Have had this problem for several years. Worse in winter , usually not a problem in summer when I am in the sun and pool. Much worse this winter/spring season and here in Va. winter has been nothing, very warm. My regime to control this has been lukewarm oatmeal bath in morning. Applying Curel Itch Defense lotion after oatmeal batch and again when getting home from work.Before bed at night take a small dose of Benadryl liquid. Sometimes I think after eating it flares up. Really no rash but at times a few scattered red spots. If I scratch the skin becomes extremely red and inflamed. My doc tells me to continue using the Benadryl or get Zyrtec. Read where someone else had success with Zyrtec. Since summer season is almost here and this is never a problem in summer for me I keep putting off going to my dermatologist, who I havent been too in years. Also I feel I should undergo allergy testing for both external and internal possible offenders. My father had similar problem with his skin as he aged. But as others have noted at times this skin problem has now become maddening. Glad I found this site.

alex458

Apr 20, 2012

I dont know about any of you, but just reading all these comments are making me itch more.

ItchyGirl003

Apr 21, 2012

To: circusfreak

Have you found out what this itching is from? I have the same symptoms as you mention. It has been about 2 wks and it goes all over. Thinking about seeing a dermatologist and getting some blood work.

benprotein

Apr 22, 2012

To: all

I washed myself all over with a moisturising shower gel which had been sitting unused in the shower for a few months. The gel had turned runny which should have rung alarm bells but I went ahead and used it. After a couple of hours I found I was itching all over and the worst places I scratched heavily.

The next day I could 'read' the finger marks on my skin in the form of spots and a rash which did not improve in a week. After going to the doctor he gave me some steroid cream which I applied twice daily and reduced the rash areas, however I am still itchy and chase itches all over my body, in the areas I had previously washed.

I am using various anti-histamines but none of them seem to stop the itching. The itching is worse on the bottom of my legs after I have been sitting down and at night time.

I assume the shower gel had gone off (it was Dermeze body wash with glycerol) or had become a bacterial culture which I then allowed into my skin in the areas I had scratched.

I have had this itching now for 3 weeks even though the original rashes have gone and I am now getting secondary rashes in random places unrelated to the scratching, which I am now being careful about. The areas with the original rash have now largely stopped itching. I would be interested to know if anyone else has had a similar issue and whether they know what this could be. It is possible but unlikely the shower gel is a red-herring, but I doubt it.

D2theD

Apr 23, 2012

To: any1

When I was nine, I started itching. It started in my scalp, then my body (everywhere). I would cry and scratch. A doctor finally put me on hydroxyzine (atarax) 25mg., and that worked for a day. Eventually, I weaned myself off. It took me nine years, then eventually I stopped needing the medication. After eight more years without it, I'm back to square one. I've been taking benedryl daily to stop the intense itching, but I ask WTH is this? Maybe nerves???

allaboutmyia

Apr 24, 2012

To: D2theD

I have been taking benadryl tablets for over 2 years because of my itching.... I'm trying to ween myself off, but its starting up again.

I recently learned that my step brother suffered from itching some 7 or 8 years ago, and found out that he has skin cancer. That has scared the heck outta me, so I'm gonna get checked for cancer also.

Please dont take this itching for granted....It could be something simple, but it could also be something serious.

babyjane23

Apr 25, 2012

o m g i haven stopped itching for the last week, today i went to the docs and he gave me sum cream and thats it, i demanded for sum blood tests which will be done next week as a good friend of mine went to the docs with an itch and they gave her anti histamines finally they got to the bottom of it and she has non hogkins lymphoma, that was a year and a half ago and unfortunately shes losing her battle with only a week to live. shes 25. demand answers, itching like this just aint right and this dam cream aint cutting it. i mite get sum scabies stuff just incase. i have a slight rash on chest but no where else and it itches EVERYWHERE :( good luck everybody, xxxx

disneymom9699

Apr 28, 2012

To: santina6519

After reading this and the other postings I am freaking out a bit. I have tried not to and I can tend to think the worst possiblities especially on the web. But I am so glad I came across this forum. Can you tell me what you found out because I have been itching for about 1.5 years and been using Zyrtec everyday which does stop the itching. My husband has been out of work off and on these last 5 years or so so we haven't always had insurance and when I am going to go we lose the ins. I now have a pain in the upper right quadrant by my ribs and under my breast. It feels like a bruised rib but thinking maybe gallbladder related although it doesn't hurt from underneath. feels like ribs actually hurt(only when pressed on)
Anyways, that is how I got onto your post with the tumor/pancreas/gallbladder. Unfortunately again we don't have insurance until June. Can you give me anymore info please.

fevas

Apr 30, 2012

To: anyone that can help

Hi. I am a 32 year old woman that has many symptoms mentioned above like the itching for no reason.... on top of my itching problem, my skin feels like it's burning from the inside all over except for my hands and feet which are cold. I shower with a soap free lotion and cool water.I also moisturize my whole body with sorbeline .... I have had many tests done but they don't seem to find anything wrong . I am sooooo sick of these symptoms and so sick of going to doctors only to be told that there is nothing wrong....does anyone out there have this and can they help......please !!!!!

kwikwing

Apr 30, 2012

To: Silver182

58 yr. male here with same condition. Sleeping at night is the worst. Feel like things crawling on me constantly. Unemployed & no money for a doctor.Driving me crazy!

puzzled946

May 02, 2012

To: Kitten3357

Your itching problem sounds the most like mine. I get it once or twice a year. I itch mainly on my arms, top of my hands, wrists, legs, mainly top of thighs and knees. It is so intense I think I will go crazy. The symtomis between an itch and skin prickling and it jumps around. It gets worse when i get hot or do house work. I used to get it at night when the sheets touched my skin but now I get it in the morning when I wake up and just random times. I havent had this since September but it started gradually a few days ago and is full force today. I used to think benadryl worked but I just went through an episode and it lasted about 30 mins which is about as long as benadryl takes to work. I also started zyrtec when symptems 1st began. I've tried all kinds of lotions and anti-itch creams. what works best is lotions with menthol and peppermint. scratching makes it worse, but I sometimes can't help it. I've seen a dermatologist who ran bloodwork, but everything checked out. He did give me a cortizone shot that seemed to dull the itch somewhat. I am getting ready to call him and tell him its back:(

sam7137

May 03, 2012

To: abacab634

same problm from last 4years....anyone plz help me.... i regularly taking medicine(certizene) but not recovered yet.
someone plz help me.

Alimaay

May 03, 2012

To: sam7137

This is just a quick note and perhaps has already been mentioned but i do believe that when we itch so much, it is our body's way of telling us that we need to detoxify. Toxins will always try to make their way out of our body through various routes and the skin is all part of the detoxification process. Our lymphatic system, located just beneath our skin, will help draw toxins out of the body and alot of the time, rashes turn up in the areas where the toxins are trying to evacuate. So, all this to say that a good liver detox is a great thing. You can do it through diet. Milk thistle is good to detoxify the liver but do read up on it to ensure it does not contraindicate with any other meds you may be taking. Keep in mind that spring and fall are perfect times to detoxify the body. So lots of water, self massage, back off on sugar intake, eat lots of dark leafy greens and research a good herb that helps detoxify the liver, such as milk thistle. We have to remember to work the organs in the body that have the job of filtering/detoxifying....good luck

jopincar

May 04, 2012

To: sam7137

As a long-time sufferer of this problem as well as allergies here are things that I can tell you have worked for me:

1) anti-histamines -- I haven't had to take on in over a year now, but they helped me when I first started experiencing the itching.  I see these as a short-term solution

2) anti-inflammatory supplements and vitamin B & C -- I started taking supplements every morning about a year ago and I no longer take any anti-histamines.  Here's what I take: Selenium, Milk Thistle, Vitamin C, Pine Bark Extract, B-100 Complex, Muscadine Grape Seed Extract, Krill Oil

3) wheat avoidance -- I know this may sound crazy, but check out the book Wheat Belly.

jopincar

May 04, 2012

To: jopincar

I want to add that you should go see a dermatologist or allergist to have blood work run first. That's what I did. In some cases, the itchy skin can be caused by serious illnesses that require medical treatment such as kidney failure.

ELF1969

May 04, 2012

To: Casi2

This may seem to go against everything you would all consider but i used to have the same random itching spells. They started when I was in my teens. They would come on in different areas & move around my body. It was so bad, I would become hysterical. When I was in my 30s, I noticed the itching would subside after I was in the sun once or twice a week. I started tanning a couple times a week, not enough to burn. Two 15 or 20 minutes in the tanning bed. It is the only thing that makes the itching stop. I am in my 40s now & I hardly ever have the itching spells. It only happens if I go too long w/o tanning...the itching comes back just like before.

bec393

May 05, 2012

To: everyone

Last year I was diagnosed with non-hodgkins lymphoma. my first symptom was unexplained itching.

it started off on my legs, went to the soles of my feet then eventually i was itching pretty much everywhere but with no rash or anything. one dr said i had dry skin, another said i was allergic to certain foods. but it turned out i had cancer. i was itching for about 5 months, before i was diagnosed.

lild232

May 08, 2012

To: justinsantos_eic

the problem is that you have mites they are creatures that licve on the human body. when hot you began to itch and when cold the itching stops. the best thing to do is to talk to a doctor about it.

Hachi138

May 09, 2012

To: ayor and all who cannot explain the itching

I have exactly what you describe and it is a terrible feeling and I understand. I had four biopsies of my neck, back, and elbows. I had many blood tests, every prescription steroid cream, lotion, ointment, foam, powder, etc. They checked my liver, and lots of skin diseases. To no avail. Doctors ruled out everything. Their fallback answer was an autoimmune disease, which I am not convinced. The stress was so bad and itching I also wanted to kill myself, it was hard to live and exist. My answer was simply Benadryl, generic diphenhydramine will work and sleep. Stress seems to trigger itching. Last, go to Walmart and purchase Burt's bees soap, Tea Tree oil shampoo, and Tea Tree oil. The oil seems to help but be warned it smells like cat ****. I hope this helps and the itching seemed to go down in about a year to two years. I was suffering from May 2012 until now. I still suffer and bleed and my best advise is to try not to scratch.

nancy900

May 11, 2012

I have had the exact same unexplained itching for many years now. Started on my back. Thought it was an allergy to my bra strap but that's not it. It has spread to other parts of my back, my arms and yes, it feel hot and like thousands of little needles like someone else said. Hy head itches; a spot on my face itches. I scratch until I bleed sometimes. I have a hard time sleeping because I can't stop itching. I've stopped using any kind of soap or lotion where the first ingredient listed is water or where water is listed at all. Water will just dry your skin. I use soap made with goat's milk. It only helps a little. I have tried every non-itch lotion out there andnothing helps. I have tried Gold Bond powder. I just bought a detox kit in case it could be candida like someone suggested. I'll try anything. My allergist can find no reason for the itching. Glad I found this community. Appreciate your comments.

nataliem1970

May 14, 2012

I have this unbearable all over itching too. No rash and randomly throughout the day but mostly when I go to bed. I have just recently noticed that during the week of my last period, the itch disappeared completely but returned again immediately following. I'm now thinking it may be hormonal but want to find out what tests I should be asking for before seeing my doctor?

Kenwell

May 15, 2012

I also have this for over 3 year. It happens when i am stressing or someone surprise or try to scare me and also when i get angry. I also happens when i do exercises or they weather is too hot. One thing is for sure is that when i am happy i don't get anything. Also i have a little bit like 8kg excess and i'm trying to lose it since cause i thought it was the problem but with school and all i really did not ,manage. When my body is cool i get nothing. Hope this helps.

Itchyman1993

May 16, 2012

I have the same thing on my shoulders. Itch like crazy but nothing there, no rash, nothing. I wake up in the middle of the night because it is so iritating. I first got it 6 months ago on my left shoulder, and it just came back a couple weeks ago, it is now on my right shoulder instead. I am nervous it has something to do with my nerve endings or something. Does anyone know what it is..?

Kenwell

May 17, 2012

To: Itchyman1993

Do you exercise regularly?

Retiregirl

May 18, 2012

To: circusfreak

I know this sounds strange - but rub vicks vaporub in a light layer on the itch - it will give you reief from the itch - if you can stand the smell

Retiregirl

May 18, 2012

To: ayor

apply vicks vaporub externally to itchy areas - will give you immedaite relief.

Retiregirl

May 18, 2012

To: Casi2

Apply vick's vaporub for intense itching - it helps immediately

Retiregirl

May 18, 2012

To: nancy900

For immediate itch relief - try Vick's vaporub sapplied externally - gives immediate relief from the horrible itch

drkimmedicinewoman

May 19, 2012

To: casi2

If your itches are a stinging, burning, itching pain, you might have a nerve condition called neuropathy. If it is on the upper body only, it is called brachial neuropathy. Apply ice or cold compresses. If it is unbearable, see a neurologist. He may prescribe the same medication that helps fibromyalgia patients.

Grandma82352

May 21, 2012

To: abacab634

I have been itching since October and November of 2011. It started here and there on my body, then escalated to all over...head to toe. The dermatologist prescribed a salve and pills to stop the itching. I have to say, this isn't much compensation. I scratched myself so hard, I made sores all over my body. The salve prescribed, was for the sores. I could only use it for two weeks then off two. The pills are making me so terribly tired...I hate them. I have seen him twice now. I go back in June 11th. He says I look and am doing better than alot of his patients with this same thing. I feel at such a loss, as it isn't getting better. I cut my nails constantly, so I don't hurt myself. I am curious to see what he says on my next visit. Hang in there and don't give up.

alifromcanada

May 22, 2012

To: All Itchers

My problem is somewhat different that everyone's I've read so far.. And here's a list of my medical conditions: poly cystic-ovary syndrome, herniated discs in low back, insomnia, labrynthitus, and I just lost 90lbs (and counting) in the last 12 months through diet and exercise.

I live in the Caribbean, and we have loads of mozzies here and I'm prone to bites as I'm outdoors a lot. At first I thought I was just getting bit loads but a few weeks ago I couldn't feel the welts (except my scalp, which has about 10 welts). I also have stayed indoors for 5 days straight, and I'm still as itchy as ever.

To add to the bazaar symptoms, when I scratch my body - it feels numb. Not cold or tingly, but I just can't feel where I'm scratching and thus cannot find the 'source' of each itch. Then I started getting small penny-sized bruises all over my legs where the itches were. I've resorted to using a callus softener (flat and scratchy) so I can scratch at a large area at once.

I've tried cold/hot showers, washing bedding/towels, lotions, anti-histamines (provided relief, but should be on these 24/7), after-bite, eliminating everything processed from my diet, no medications/lotions/perfumes/etc, to no avail.

I'm quite convinced that unless people experience 'mystery itching' first-hand, they do not believe.

Any ideas?

hubbynurse

May 23, 2012

To: jg7474

I too am Itchy and was on Doxy, Now on Minocyclin, Meloxicam, nystantin, flagyl, and hoping it goes away after treatment of meds, I have Lymes Disease. Antibiotics and anti inflamatories seem to come up alot in this itchy skin topic.....

hubbynurse

May 23, 2012

To: alifromcanada

the same feeling of not being able to feel your skin I have also.

AmyEye

May 26, 2012

To: all

I didn't read all comments, too many. I developed these same syptoms (symptoms) and it got to the point where I was itching my skin raw. After two weeks of doctoring myself with everything...I went to my Doc. As soon as she saw it she said she had seen this "fine rash" before in a patient that was having tyroid issues. Sure enough after a blood test I was diagnosed hypotyroid. I'm still in the ajustement phase as far as meds go, but the itching is gone. Coincidently, if I forget to take the med for one day the itching returns. I hope this helps someone!

edwkra01

May 27, 2012

To: everyone

itchy skin, feel like bugs are crawling all over me from head to toe,yet i cant see anything. seems like anyone around me starts to itch. been checked for scabies, taken a cortozone shot, wont seem to stop. what is it?

graceunknown

May 28, 2012

I have itching all over, every time I get hot, over stressed, or my clothes touch my skin. This has been going on for the past 8 years, I have tried all the medications, soaps, shots, blood work for all different kinds of stuff, allergy testing, kidney and liver functions testing, to Lupas. Everything and I can't get no answers. I'm on like up to 300 mg of hydroxyzine. And other medications???? I don't get it.

Cssr

May 28, 2012

To: wLiberty

I have a similar problem which I have been working on for 2 years. I have been diagnosed with parasites. Alternative medicine does a better job in handling this without subsequent damage to you liver from long use of drugs. Cannot say that mine is at all cured. However, my skin wounds are just about all gone.

My message is to look toward parasites as the cause and solution to you problem.

Gh0stassassin777

May 28, 2012

Sometimes I wish I had a rope.same problem,no rashes etc. I take Zyrtec, and it seems to really help. I just hope for all of us that WE can get rid of this!
Much thanks to everyone!

marygirls

May 29, 2012

my 82 year old father had a terrible rash that had lasted over six months all over his body. He's been treated with antibiotics, steroids, various prescription and non prescription creams. He's had skin scrapings done (no scabies), seen dermatologists and allergists. No one could figure it out. He was tortured by horrible itch, losing sleep, miserable and was losing will to go on. Recently we noticed his shower head seemed very grimy. Futher examination showed black mold throughout the head. We have replaced it. Throughly bleached bathroom and now after two weeks his rash has almost entirely disappeared. Check your bathrooms!! I can't think how many times he took a shower trying to relieve his itch and may have actually been making it worse by increasing exposure to mold! Good luck to all and you have out sympathies!