Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Itching arms and Legs

I was reading on this forum about arm and leg itching.  I have severe itching on my arms and legs.  I have no rash, no allergies, absolutely nothing on my skin.  As others have mentioned, it usually starts after a shower or bath, but it can happen on its own or if something brushes up against my skin.I start itching and one itch leads to another until I'm going crazy for relief.  I have my own theory.  I believe its nerves or nerve itching.  I have Sjogrens and Rheumatoid, and I believe it is some form of flare up, possibly related to my auto immune issues.  How do I prove it and whom could I go to for help?.  I've mentioned this problem to my doctors, who are somewhat dismissive of this as an issue, since they can't see anything, its really not taken seriously.  I've had the itching suddenly start so bad that I've had to pull over while driving so I could start scratching to get relief.  This is definitely effecting the quality of my life (such as it is with rheumatoid etc.) Does anyone have any suggestions as to what type of specialist I could see (other then a dermatologist) or anything that can be done?


This discussion is related to Itching arms and legs.
2 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
Sjogrens and Rheumatoid can be controlled through diet because the symptoms can be triggered by the foods you eat.  Most people with your condition will alleviate most of the symptoms if you cut out corn and dairy from your diet.  Corn is in almost everything so you must be prudent and learn more about it.  Don't eat corn chips, breadings, corn oils, etc. Stop eating dairy and corn for about a month and then do not exceed more than two servings that include corn or dairy per week.  A little now and then won't hurt.  But every day will cause inflamation which will cause your symptoms.  Also drink water after exercising up to a total of 8 glasses or more a day (exercise first because this helps the body absorb the water).  Your soap and shampoo probably contain sulfites.  Try using a glycerine soap.  There are a few shampoo's such as Jason's that do not have sulfites.  Also take 2,000 mg of vitamin C a day, take fish oil supplements or eat baked or broiled fish twice a week, rub Crisco shortening on the itching areas every morning and night.  You'll start feeling better after a week and be cured in two months.
Helpful - 0
563773 tn?1374246539
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL

Hello,
Neurodermatitis is one possibility for your symptoms. The only thing that seems to help most sufferers is the application of ice to the area until the itch is diminished. Other treatments include cooling lotions like those containing camphor or menthol, capsacain or local anesthetic creams,amitriptyline and gabapentin tablets and electrical cutaneous nerve field stimulation.

Please discuss this possibility and these options of treatment with your 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.



Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Dermatology Community

Top Dermatology Answerers
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Learn to identify and prevent bites from summer’s most common pests.
Doctors argue for legislation to curb this dangerous teen trend in the latest Missouri Medicine report.
10 ways to keep your skin healthy all winter long
How to get rid of lumpy fat on your arms, hips, thighs and bottom
Diet “do’s” and “don’ts” for healthy, radiant skin.
Images of rashes caused by common skin conditions