Re: How to stop the itch? reply

[Guest guest]

Most people with PSC experience the ITCH. It is one of the worst symptoms, for several reasons. One of which is that a person who has never felt the ITCH, doesn't understand it, and they can dismiss the agony you feel. They figure it is like a big bug bite or a rash, It is not anything like that. A dermatologist told me it affects us like pain, and is just as important to treat it.

My first suggestion is to get a stiff bath brush, so you don't damage your skin. If you get one with a long handle, you can reach more places with less effort. It also scratches a larger area at once. Also use some kind of moisturizer so your skin is in good shape to prevent any infections, I lprefer using vaseline rather then more pricey stuff. Then talk to the docs and be insistent that they find an effective treatment for you. Some have found relief with medications, I went for light therapy with UV/B lights. Both these treatments take some time, but after 2 or 3 weeks relief should start.

Recently someone wrote about having their blood filtered, that seems interesting but I think it would be a the last choice for me.

You can find relief. If necessary, you can always call the liver team you saw at Mayo's and get meds, or a referral to a dermatologist who has experience with patients with liver disease.

Keep in touch, and take care

MizKit