real bad itch

[aquaty]

Hi, I have a terrible itch abd its all over my body except my neck and head. Im thinking its a allergic reaction 2 something because its not affecting my head which is the only part of my body that my clothes aren't touching. But I find it really odd that there's no visible rash. It also seems like the itch is on my veins or its around them. I have some cream to put on my skin but it only stops the itching 4 a short period of time. Im losing sleep every night itching please help.

[Dept4201]

There is helpful information on geocities.com/dhr6878 which is a possibility of what you may have

[Dr Santos]

Hi,

There is no known relationship of itching without rash and sexually transmitted disease. However, rash that is red but not itchy and  affect the palms of the hands or soles of the feet is usually associated with syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease. Another condition are genital warts which presents as soft bumps but not with pruritus.

It is good that you are going to see your doctor and have a complete check-up. Take care and do update us with the results.

[aquaty]

Other than the itch that has been going on 4 about 2 weeks now, I experience a cramp like feeling under my left rib cage. But that doesn't happen very often. Ima go ahead and get the full system check. Im also concerned about stds, I never experienced any symptoms but can this b the result of any kind of std?

[Dr Santos]

Hi,

Generalized pruritus, or itching all over the body could be due to a systemic disease, medication use, various infections, iron deficiency, liver disease, kidney disease, high or low thyroid function, chronic urticaria, as well as certain cancers such as lymphoma. Are there other signs or symptoms present? How long have you been experiencing this?

It is recommended that you see your doctor for further evaluation such as  a complete blood count, kidney function, liver function, thyroid function, iron level, stool studies for parasites, and a chest x-ray. Treatment of pruritus is to identify and fix the underlying cause of the itching, as well as treatment of the specific skin condition, if there is any. Non-specific treatments for pruritus, such as topical steroid creams and oral antihistamines, can provide relief. Good skin care and moisturizing may also help especially those with dry skin.

Take care and keep us posted.