itchy skin

[dsgallagher]

What can cause severe itchy skin, mostly to forearms, without any rash?  Severe itching occurred during pregnancies, treated w/steroid creams, benadryl and induced labor.  NOT pregnant now and skin in intolorable.  Please help!!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Brachioradial pruritis (sometimes abbreviated BRP) is an intense itching sensation of the arm usually between the shoulder and elbow of either or both arms. The itch can be so intense that sufferers will scratch their own skin to a bleeding condition. The cause is not known, although there are a few lines of thought on what causes it.

BRP may be attributed to a neuropathy, such as chronic cervical radiculopathy. The possibility of an underlying neuropathy should be considered in the evaluation and treatment of all patients with BRP.

The main cause of BRP is not known but there is evidence to suggest that BRP may arise in the nervous system. Cervical spine disease may be an important contributing factor.

No cure has been found. Many different medications and types of topical creams have been experimented with, but none seem to make any difference. The only thing that seems to help most sufferers is the application of ice to the area until the itch is diminished.

You can gain more information about this from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brachioradial_pruritis

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing and in case of additional queries.

[dsgallagher]

Have you ever heard of Brachioradial Pruritus?  Researching the itch and came across this,  any insights?

[dsgallagher]

The obvious precautions, treatments have always been used on the first notion of the itch.  This is sever and benadryl, lotions. etc. don't seem to do the trick.  Other than eczema, dermatitis, not sure what it could be.  Always looking for more feedback, suggestions as to how to aleviate and to find a specific cause.

[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). Dry skin usually results from environmental factors that you can wholly or partially control. These include hot or cold weather with low humidity levels, long-term use of air conditioning or central heating, and washing or bathing too much.

Itchy skin on the arms and hands can be  also be due to Eczema or contact dermatitis.Other conditions cause itchy skin as well. Skin conditions like psoriasis,dermatitis,lice,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 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.Also take iron supplements for some days and see if they help.

Pls take a second opinion from a dermatologist if the symptoms persist. He/She will start with the specific medications. If an internal disease is found, whether it's kidney disease, iron deficiency or a thyroid problem, treating that disease often relieves the itch.Lastly,Phototherapy can also be tried.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing and if you have any additional queries