@beebe when I first started with the awful itching and associated pain, I messaged my dermatologist NP. She suggested dry skin. I messaged her a couple of days later and told her I felt like I was going crazy- couldn’t sleep, no relief, all the things that you experienced! She referred me to a dermatologist that is more specialized. She has been fantastic. In the meantime, I contacted my PCP. They communicated and put me on a regimen of Gabapentin 3x a day, Zyrtec 1-4x a day, Eucerine cream for damaged cream. My derm also suggested I try Biofreeze if there were areas that needed a little extra push. As crazy as that is, it helps!
When I couldn’t shake the extreme head fog and dizziness, I asked to be put on Lyrica, which my PCP did. A derm can’t do that because it’s controlled. I took it 2x a day. Last week I spoke with my derm and PCP and asked to cut it back. So now I take it only at night. I will occasionally take Zyrtec. It dries me out significantly, so I only take it when I really think I need it.
One thing I’ve learned through this and other issues is to ask to be referred to a specialist in the area of concern. My oncologist is fantastic, but his knowledge of some things is limited.
I’m sorry that was so long!! I hope it helped!