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Unexplained Itching

Posted by bjbednarz @bjbednarz, Nov 28, 2020

In early 2019, I began to itch all over my body. I had no rash or otherwise physical evidence as to why I was itching. I had taken some medicine that I think started the itching, but when I stopped the medicine, the itching did not stop. I have been to multiple doctors, have had numerous blood tests, full body MRI, and stopped other various medications, but to no avail. It seems like there is a glitch between my brain and body. My brain is telling my body it itches, but there appears to be no reason. I'm being tortured with this itching. Can anyone please help?

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bjbednarz | @bjbednarz | Nov 29, 2020

Also, I have no neuropathy pain of any kind, I just itch everywhere.

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avmcbellar | @avmcbellar | Nov 29, 2020
In reply to @bjbednarz "Thank you for your information, unfortunately, I have stomach issues and cannot take ibuprofen." + (show)
@bjbednarz

Thank you for your information, unfortunately, I have stomach issues and cannot take ibuprofen.

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Sorry to hear you cannot take ibuprofen. Have you tried a pain reliever that is not a NSAID like Tylenol?

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bjbednarz | @bjbednarz | Nov 29, 2020

Thank you for your information, unfortunately, I have stomach issues and cannot take ibuprofen.

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1 reply
kimass1 | @kimass1 | Nov 29, 2020

I had an unexplained itch, but it did have little pinpoint bumps that would itch like crazy. NUMEROUS Doctors and test, elimination diets, etc.... could not figure it out. By accident I found that taking two ibruprophen would make it stop. it was inflammatory in nature and that was the only ting that gave me relief. Not one doctor suggested it or could understand why it worked. It may not work for you, but be your biggest advocate. Research the hell out of it and try everything until you find what works for you.

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Wright Lea | @leawright11 | Nov 29, 2020
In reply to @funcountess "Have you tried calamine lotion, or other good brand body lotion? It’s possible it’s the fabric..." + (show)
@funcountess

Have you tried calamine lotion, or other good brand body lotion?
It’s possible it’s the fabric of your clothes. I know Dacron and polyesters fabric will make me itch, but all cotton is fine. Also wool can scratch the skin, making you itch.
Maybe it’s the detergent you are using? A good dermatologist might help you.
Do you have dry skin? Is it worse in the winter when the heat is on?
Hope you get some relief. Bug bites can also cause itching.
Funcountess

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The answers you received were obviously from someone NOT familiar with Neuropathic Itching! This is not an allergic reaction!!
I am so sorry you received bad advice.

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1 reply
avmcbellar | @avmcbellar | Nov 28, 2020

I am glad you found something that helps until you find the cause to put an end to it. Aspercreme is a pain reliever. For some folks the itch went away on its own. I hope it does the same for you. A never ending itch is miserable.

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bjbednarz | @bjbednarz | Nov 28, 2020

No, after it burned so badly, I've never tried it again.

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avmcbellar | @avmcbellar | Nov 28, 2020
In reply to @bjbednarz "I tried capsaicin, it just set my skin on fire. I have not tried the prescription..." + (show)
@bjbednarz

I tried capsaicin, it just set my skin on fire. I have not tried the prescription medications. Thank you for the suggestions.

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Did you try a low dose and it still burned?

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mannix | @mannix | Nov 28, 2020
In reply to @bjbednarz "I tried capsaicin, it just set my skin on fire. I have not tried the prescription..." + (show)
@bjbednarz

I tried capsaicin, it just set my skin on fire. I have not tried the prescription medications. Thank you for the suggestions.

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Yes, I did capsaicin 4 times a day for years
The burning does go away, but it did not help with the itch.
Don’t get it in your eyes! Use rubber gloves to put it on

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bjbednarz | @bjbednarz | Nov 28, 2020
In reply to @mannix "I still take gabapentin, 400 mgs three times a day. Benedryl can help, but I took..." + (show)
@mannix

I still take gabapentin, 400 mgs three times a day. Benedryl can help, but I took so much that it stopped helping as much. Ice packs provided temporary, but very helpful relief. Try Cryomax brand, they stay cold for a number of hours.
As I mentioned in a previous post, stress is a big cause as well.

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I've taken Gabapentin to no avail. I've tried both prescription and OTC allergy medicines, The only thing that gives me any relief is Aspercreme with Lidocaine. I apply it daily, multiple times to various itching locations.

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