Itching Without Rash

[jenrenea]

I'm a 30 year old woman with nearly constant mild to moderate itching with several spurts a day of severe itching that keeps me from sleeping or focusing.  It began three years ago during my 20th week of pregnancy and never left.  I have tested negative for all allergens.  I've had a kenalog shot, attarax, benzodiazepenes.  I've used lidocaine, menthol, etc type lotions (and three or four prescription ones).  Nothing helps.  I don't have dry skin.  The most itchy areas are my face arms and legs, though at times my back or something will itch badly too.  I've been to OBs, GPs, and derms.  The kenalog was the latest derms "last resort".

What on earth could this be and how do I get relief?  I can't even go out in the summer because heat makes it worse.  Showering is a nightmare.  Sleep is hard to come by.  

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Itching all over the body without any rash can be due to many reasons. First of all, it can be due to dry skin. Then scabies and hives, internal diseases like liver and kidney disorders,diabetes, iron deficiency anemia, irritation and allergic reactions to chemicals,wool,soaps,cosmetics and certain foods  can also cause itchy skin.

You can apply an anti-itch cream or lotion to the affected area. Oral antihistamine, such as Benadryl can also be used. You should take a comfortably cool bath and wear smooth-textured cotton clothing.

If the symptoms persist then it will be better to consult a dermatologist.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[maatson]

If you could narrate the investigations done especially CBC and Hb.