Itchy legs

[apruchnicki]

the only part on my body itching has been my legs. I have no rashes, no bumps, and nothing like shaving seems to be the cause. I have not changed soap, detergent, or lotion when I started having these problems, but have since tired different soaps like oatmeal, dry skin, and sensitive skin soaps. I have tried benadryl, and even put a humidifier in my room. It sometimes wakes me up at night, and my only option is a cold rag to sooth it. I went to a dermatologist this morning that asked if I have back problems, which I do. I have arthritis in my lower back. He said that it may not be my skin, but instead my nerves sending signals to make me think my legs are itchy from the arthritis. I was looking for a 2nd opinion. I never would have linked the 2. Thanks for the help!

[bill23460]

Hello, a few years ago I had a microscopic parasite that made my legs itchy so when it happened again I went to my Doctor but he told me there were no holes so it was probably an allergic reaction, he gave me a cream that helped a little but didn't stop it.
I searched the net and someone said it might be due to something in bread so I stopped eating bread, then I stopped cakes and even schnitzel and crumbed fish, this did help but I still had it sometimes.
Finally I searched the net again and found it can be caused by lack or water, I realized I had been drinking a lot more coffee so I cut back the coffee and drank more water and it has stopped, my legs finally don't itch and I can eat bread again.
It is simple to test and it worked for me so I hope it helps you because I do understand how this can drive you crazy.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm anything without examination but it can be contact dermatitis, lichen simplex chronicus, allergic reaction or eczema. Another possibility is stasis dermatitis which effects the lower limbs mostly. It is mostly from vascular problems in the lower limbs. I would suggest you to get it evaluated from a dermatologist and get the diagnosis confirmed.
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.