Connect
← Return to Itchy scalp due to neuropathy
Discussion
Comment receiving replies
Hi @igl, The itch can definitely cause some consternation especially when it's the scalp. I have neuropathy but no pain so I'm not taking any medications for the neuropathy. I have sometimes had itchy scalp but also arms, legs and unmentionable areas also. For me I don't know whether or not it's due to my neuropathy. I have used anti-itch creams which have helped some but not really made it go away entirely.
Both @artscaping and @leeisme have started discussions mentioning itching and you may find them helpful.
--- The "itch".....An update about testing and treating.: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/the-itch-an-update-about-testing-and-treating/
--- Anybody else have these weird symptoms?: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/anybody-else-have-these-weird-symptoms/.
I don't think anyone but the neurologist knows what they would recommend after you meet with them. It would be great if PT might help though. While we wait for others to respond, I thought you might like to read this reference on neuropathy related to itchy scalp.
"Neurogenic causes of scalp dysesthesia occur with damage to the central or peripheral pathways of itch sensation, resulting in modification and heightened sensitivity of nerves that result in abnormal sensations in the absence of or out of proportion to external stimuli."
--- Scalp dysesthesia: a neuropathic phenomenon - PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35122352/
Replies to "Hi @igl, The itch can definitely cause some consternation especially when it's the scalp. I have..."
Hey John. I’ve been suffering from what started about 1 1/2 years ago as “just” chronic scalp itching. Now I get it elsewhere as well, including my ears, back of my neck, my back, on my lower middle chest and a bit on my arms and legs.
I’ve seen two dermatologists several times and even had biopsies with no definitive diagnosis. Out of desperation I’ve made an appointment with neurology for June.
I have two conditions that might be causing neuropathic itch. First, I have a severe stenosis at C5/C6 plus Kaiphosis, Scoliosis, bilateral sciatica advanced degenerative disk disease, mostly to my lumbar spine.
I also have chronic intestinal problems, following right hemicolectomy surgery in 2022. While I don’t have an official diagnosis I’m being treated with Cholestyramine for bile acid problems, which can cause chronic itching as well.
I’m hoping that neurology has ways to block the guilty nerve(s) or prescribe medication to help.
Connect
I never connected a scalp itch problem I developed several months ago with arachnoiditis. It's helpful to know what the likely source of the itchiness may be, even if there is no solution for it.