Very Itchy! Is this common?

[redsoxfn07]

I've had Hep.C for about 20 years. Three years ago my feet started to itch. Couldn't sleep. My skin was crawling. Scratched so bad I have scabbs to this day. It isn't as bad. I think I'm just getting used to it. It is still there, and sucks. Anything I can try out there? What about that NU-Liver Herb? I'll try anything. HELP!

[FrontRangeMom]

My hepatologist prescribed Actigall (ursodiol is the generic name).  The theory is that bile salts deposit under the skin and this is responsible for the itch.  Actigall is taken orally 2x a day.  I didn't notice any side effects, at least nothing I could detect over those of the AD (but that's another story).  You might ask your physician about this, as it is available as a generic product and is not too expensive.

[Tippyclubb]

I've had hep c for 30 years and not on tx.  The last 6 months lots of itching on my upper arms.  Like you, I scratched little the red bumps until scabs formed.  Tried everything, creams, dermatlogist, etc.  Thought this was related to hcv.  A month ago I changed the laundry and bar soap I use.  I switched over to perfume, dye free soaps.  So far its been working and I no longer itch.  A simple solution for me.  Well, maybe not so simple took 6 months to figure out!

I'm just wondering if this would work for others too.  

[hippygem]

Hi, I think you may have Lichen Simplex Chronicus or Lichen Planus, if you google chronic itching you will find more information.  These are related to having Pruritis in people with hepatitis C.  Usually we have an underlying skin itch, not exactly pinpointed, and we scratch, sometimes from this scratching or rubbing we create a 'chronic' itch, then we end up with the scabs and scars etc.
Same thing happening to me, I went to a dermatologist and was prescribed 'diprisone' (i think thats how you spell it) cream and elecon lotion for my head/scalp.  I have the itching on my back, stomach, ankles and head/ears.  
The trick is to try not to scratch, put some cream on it and cover it up so that you dont scratch.
Sorbolene cream is to be used instead of soap etc.