How do i stop the itching?

[Mandy72301]

I go through these fits of getting extremely itchy and when i start itching i cant stop until it breaks skin and starts to bleed. I get itchy everywhere but the most common spots are my calves, hands, thighs, and breasts. i've tried using allergy medicine and prescribed itchy cream but it only seems to calm it a little. I have scars from where my itching got out of control. Im just tired of dealing with this. I've checked multiple sites for reasons, but have found nothing. I dont have rashes or hives just get spontaneous itching. Also i do not have dry skin. please can someone help me?

[Leah9]

I am just like you with the itching.  I have to scratch it until it bleeds, because once it hurts, it no longer itches.  Sometimes even use a hair brush to scratch with.

I bought an exfoliating cloth from an Asian market, really cheap, $2.00.  It is about a foot wide a 3 feet long, so you can wrap around your back and legs.  Found that using that combined with washing my entire body using a dandruff shampoo has made the itching no longer wake me up in the middle of the night and now manageable.  I really scrub with that cloth and I have to say it feels wonderful, because it is also scratching at the same time.  Also, everyone tells me that my skin looks great and is glowing, on an up side of this.

I have been to doctors and dermatologists about this, and they seem to be at a loss.  I was hoping to find a way out of washing with the dandruff shampoo on this site, but appear that I may be doing better than most.  The shampoo I use is Neutrogena therapeutic T/Gel.

A couple of years ago, I found a Korean spa, and had my entire body exfoliated, and that took care of it for a couple of years.  It is now back, and I am due for another peel I suppose.  

Give the shampoo and scrubber thingy a try, which is the inexpensive route, and let me know if it helps.  I hope it does.  Definitely helps me.
Good luck.
Itchy in Maryland

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Itchy skin that isn't accompanied by other obvious skin changes, such as a rash, is most often caused by dry skin (xerosis). Skin conditions like psoriasis,dermatitis 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. Covering the affected area with bandages and dressings can help protect the skin and prevent scratching. You should choose mild soaps without dyes or perfumes and use a mild, unscented laundry detergent when washing clothes, towels and bedding. Please take a second opinion from a physician if the symptoms persist. He/She will start with the specific medications. If an internal disease is found, whether it's liver disease, kidney disease, iron deficiency or a thyroid problem, treating that disease often relieves the itch.

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 dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.