Marchmadness11
10-08-2008, 02:14 PM
I have been afflicted with this painful arm burning and itching for 7 years. It seems to be seasonal - starting in September after summer and lasting 2-3 months. The pain and itching is worse at night and only relieved by ice packs. I have seen physicians and been prescribed topical creams, taken steroids and antihistamines but nothing relieves this debilitating problem. I believe it is triggered by sun exposure but only during this time of year. It seems to be nerve pain as it travels year to year from shoulders to forearms - possibly following a nerve. It affects both arms at the same spot each time. It is a burning, tingling, prickling type of pain and is only relieved by ice. I found others on this site who are afflicted with this pain - but ice seems to be the only remedy and I have found no real cause. I wonder if it affects females more than males and if others have found this to be seasonal. Because it causes sleepless nights, it has become debilitating over the years. At times I think that I am crazy because there is no rash or marks unless I claw myself during the night. I hope that one day I can find a cause and cure.
Sponsor
willy8512
10-09-2008, 07:21 PM
I have the same thing on my inner thighs. It doesn't itch but stings and throbs. I went to five different dermatologists to no avail. They seem to put it in the eczema camp. But even though it's possible for older people to get this. It's hard to believe that so many adult are suddenly being afflicted with this horrible disease. I rarely wake up with the feeling and it bothers me the worst at mid day. I tried all kinds of steroids and nothing worked.
No rash no dryness just stinging.
No rash no dryness just stinging.
jsimertz1
10-11-2008, 05:59 AM
Did you get any responses back that were helpful? I have been going through this for two years. No rash but extremely itching, burning sensation on both forearms. In fact it work me up tonight it was so bad. I will scratch in my sleep.
It does seem to help to put on a topical counter irritant such as joint creams with menthol.
I would love to find out what is causing this.
It does seem to help to put on a topical counter irritant such as joint creams with menthol.
I would love to find out what is causing this.
Pottsey1
10-11-2008, 02:11 PM
Have U had UR doctor do a complete blood work up on U? I had itching on the inside of my foreamrs and the a terrible itch developed in my lower legs (from knees to ankles) and if I got hot and sweaty itching came on me. After a talk with the family doctor; he did a full blood testing on me and I was immediately refered to a hematologist. Turned out I was polycythemic! Sure hope this is not UR case! THere are many more symtoms to polycythemia!
Good Luck and God Bless.
Randy
Good Luck and God Bless.
Randy
drs
10-11-2008, 10:28 PM
Potts, I've recently heard of something in the enzyme therepy area that is quite new to the U.S. but has been in about 5 other countries for up to 30yrs. There are all kinds of studies done.
There are name brands out there, but the base product is from the 'silk worm', this is what you want to look into further.
One of the fantastic things they found is that it cleans dead proteins from the blood. Like a blood purifiyer.
It's the substance that the silk worm makes that comes from the siliva that disovles their cocoon when their ready to hatch.
It does it great job of eating up fibers that we have in the body, scar tissues, inflammation(that is huge to get rid of any inflammation!)
I was just thinking it may be an excellent thing for you to check into, it's not suppose to interact with medications at all, even in high doses.
The warning is that if your a bleeder and on Vit K to treat it, You'll have to work with your doctor closely and watch for thinner blood or bleeds that don't stop easy.
Any one that takes this stops taking it 2 days before and after a surgery, then began taking it again and it helps inflammation.
There are post in some of the natural and vitamin boards to check out too. You know I'm thinking this is something that most people would benifit from. Good luck to you.
Diana
There are name brands out there, but the base product is from the 'silk worm', this is what you want to look into further.
One of the fantastic things they found is that it cleans dead proteins from the blood. Like a blood purifiyer.
It's the substance that the silk worm makes that comes from the siliva that disovles their cocoon when their ready to hatch.
It does it great job of eating up fibers that we have in the body, scar tissues, inflammation(that is huge to get rid of any inflammation!)
I was just thinking it may be an excellent thing for you to check into, it's not suppose to interact with medications at all, even in high doses.
The warning is that if your a bleeder and on Vit K to treat it, You'll have to work with your doctor closely and watch for thinner blood or bleeds that don't stop easy.
Any one that takes this stops taking it 2 days before and after a surgery, then began taking it again and it helps inflammation.
There are post in some of the natural and vitamin boards to check out too. You know I'm thinking this is something that most people would benifit from. Good luck to you.
Diana
jsimertz1
10-12-2008, 10:31 AM
I have had a gluten test done to see if I had celiac and it came back negative, I do have thyroid disfunction and take levothyroxin for it. I also drink diet soda. I'm going to quit that and see if it helps. I have a dermatologist appointment at the end of the month and we'll see what he says but so far any doctor I've seen has just scratched their head and given me steroid cream or suggested I take oral prednisone to see if that will help. I'm going to a chiropractor as well because it's interesting that it's worse when I sleep, I'm thinking perhaps a nerve gets compressed while I'm laying down and it triggers the reaction.
Anyway, it truly is debilitating. I can't sleep because I wake up scratching and when I do fall asleep I'm dreaming of scratching.
I'll post if I find anything that helps.
Jill
Anyway, it truly is debilitating. I can't sleep because I wake up scratching and when I do fall asleep I'm dreaming of scratching.
I'll post if I find anything that helps.
Jill
Pottsey1
10-12-2008, 05:00 PM
Potts, I've recently heard of something in the enzyme therepy area that is quite new to the U.S. but has been in about 5 other countries for up to 30yrs. There are all kinds of studies done.
There are name brands out there, but the base product is from the 'silk worm', this is what you want to look into further.
One of the fantastic things they found is that it cleans dead proteins from the blood. Like a blood purifiyer.
It's the substance that the silk worm makes that comes from the siliva that disovles their cocoon when their ready to hatch.
It does it great job of eating up fibers that we have in the body, scar tissues, inflammation(that is huge to get rid of any inflammation!)
I was just thinking it may be an excellent thing for you to check into, it's not suppose to interact with medications at all, even in high doses.
The warning is that if your a bleeder and on Vit K to treat it, You'll have to work with your doctor closely and watch for thinner blood or bleeds that don't stop easy.
Any one that takes this stops taking it 2 days before and after a surgery, then began taking it again and it helps inflammation.
There are post in some of the natural and vitamin boards to check out too. You know I'm thinking this is something that most people would benifit from. Good luck to you.
Diana
Thanx Diane. Never heard of the 'Silk Worm" supplement. I'll research that and see what turns up. I'm 60 and was diagnosed with Polycythemia Vera in 2000; but symtoms started around 1994 and I didn't know what was causing them. THe worst symtom is extreme fatigue! THanx a lot! Randy P.
There are name brands out there, but the base product is from the 'silk worm', this is what you want to look into further.
One of the fantastic things they found is that it cleans dead proteins from the blood. Like a blood purifiyer.
It's the substance that the silk worm makes that comes from the siliva that disovles their cocoon when their ready to hatch.
It does it great job of eating up fibers that we have in the body, scar tissues, inflammation(that is huge to get rid of any inflammation!)
I was just thinking it may be an excellent thing for you to check into, it's not suppose to interact with medications at all, even in high doses.
The warning is that if your a bleeder and on Vit K to treat it, You'll have to work with your doctor closely and watch for thinner blood or bleeds that don't stop easy.
Any one that takes this stops taking it 2 days before and after a surgery, then began taking it again and it helps inflammation.
There are post in some of the natural and vitamin boards to check out too. You know I'm thinking this is something that most people would benifit from. Good luck to you.
Diana
Thanx Diane. Never heard of the 'Silk Worm" supplement. I'll research that and see what turns up. I'm 60 and was diagnosed with Polycythemia Vera in 2000; but symtoms started around 1994 and I didn't know what was causing them. THe worst symtom is extreme fatigue! THanx a lot! Randy P.
drs
10-12-2008, 10:06 PM
If you respond on the other boards I'll probably respond over there. Good Luck RP
ss555
10-23-2008, 03:10 AM
I have been afflicted with this painful arm burning and itching for 7 years. It seems to be seasonal - starting in September after summer and lasting 2-3 months. The pain and itching is worse at night and only relieved by ice packs. I have seen physicians and been prescribed topical creams, taken steroids and antihistamines but nothing relieves this debilitating problem. I believe it is triggered by sun exposure but only during this time of year. It seems to be nerve pain as it travels year to year from shoulders to forearms - possibly following a nerve. It affects both arms at the same spot each time. It is a burning, tingling, prickling type of pain and is only relieved by ice. I found others on this site who are afflicted with this pain - but ice seems to be the only remedy and I have found no real cause. I wonder if it affects females more than males and if others have found this to be seasonal. Because it causes sleepless nights, it has become debilitating over the years. At times I think that I am crazy because there is no rash or marks unless I claw myself during the night. I hope that one day I can find a cause and cure.
Hello Marchmaddness11,
I read with much interest your post. I am up in the middle of this night because of the exact problem you have. It is the reason for coming to this website. Everything you mention is like I wrote it. The weird thing is that I also have had this a number of years and does seem to be brought on with sun exposure. Two weeks ago I was at a soccer game and my left arm was in partial sun, the other arm shaded by a tree. That night the itching started and I'm having more and more episodes. It's going to drive me crazy. I have tried Benedryl cream on it and it doesn't help much. It seems to be internal for sure. Tonight when I awoke scratching my arms raw, I filled the sink with warm water and put in some Epsom salts, it helped a wee bit. Does anyone have any idea what causes it? I have a dermatologist appt. in Dec.!! but after reading these posts don't have much confidence it will be remedied.
Hello Marchmaddness11,
I read with much interest your post. I am up in the middle of this night because of the exact problem you have. It is the reason for coming to this website. Everything you mention is like I wrote it. The weird thing is that I also have had this a number of years and does seem to be brought on with sun exposure. Two weeks ago I was at a soccer game and my left arm was in partial sun, the other arm shaded by a tree. That night the itching started and I'm having more and more episodes. It's going to drive me crazy. I have tried Benedryl cream on it and it doesn't help much. It seems to be internal for sure. Tonight when I awoke scratching my arms raw, I filled the sink with warm water and put in some Epsom salts, it helped a wee bit. Does anyone have any idea what causes it? I have a dermatologist appt. in Dec.!! but after reading these posts don't have much confidence it will be remedied.
ss555
10-24-2008, 09:00 AM
Dear Marchmadness11,
I wanted to let you know that quite by accident, I have discovered since the other night, that Epsom salt soaks are helping my arms, after soaking I am applying Lubriderm (new) intense skin repair body lotion. Even though, I like you, do not have a problem with dry skin on my arms. I had a good nights sleep last night and wanted to pass this on to you. I don't know if it truly worked or it was going to be a night that I wasn't going to claw myself. I'll keep trying and we'll see.
I wanted to let you know that quite by accident, I have discovered since the other night, that Epsom salt soaks are helping my arms, after soaking I am applying Lubriderm (new) intense skin repair body lotion. Even though, I like you, do not have a problem with dry skin on my arms. I had a good nights sleep last night and wanted to pass this on to you. I don't know if it truly worked or it was going to be a night that I wasn't going to claw myself. I'll keep trying and we'll see.
jsimertz1
10-25-2008, 07:44 AM
I also have posted here that I have the same wierd thing on both of my forearms. It definately keeps you awake all night, you wake up scratching and then can't go back to sleep because of the intense burning and itching. Anyway, someone posted that capsaicin helps. I got a bottle of the arthritis capsaicin lotion and put it on my arms. After two applications daily it hasn't returned for the past two weeks. Could be a coincidence, but I'm sleeping again.
Warning, capsaicin is STRONG. It burned the first time pretty strongly (although I felt it was better than the itching) and my arm was very hot, red and kind of swollen. The next time it only burned a little bit. It seems to counter irritate the nerves and definately relieves the itching. Also, do not touch your eyes after applying, even after washing my hands it was slightly there. I also use witch hazel on both arms and then apply aveeno anti itch lotion.
Good luck, and if anyone out there knows what this is, there are alot of people suffering with it and I for one would love to know if there is a real cure.
Jill
Warning, capsaicin is STRONG. It burned the first time pretty strongly (although I felt it was better than the itching) and my arm was very hot, red and kind of swollen. The next time it only burned a little bit. It seems to counter irritate the nerves and definately relieves the itching. Also, do not touch your eyes after applying, even after washing my hands it was slightly there. I also use witch hazel on both arms and then apply aveeno anti itch lotion.
Good luck, and if anyone out there knows what this is, there are alot of people suffering with it and I for one would love to know if there is a real cure.
Jill
ss555
10-26-2008, 09:34 AM
Thank you Jill, any bit of advice is welcome.
caroline42
10-27-2008, 04:04 AM
yes i have the same problem but on a small bases. only on my right forarm the only thing that has helped is a medician my husband gave me from when he had prostrate operation..it is LIDOCAINE HYDROCHLORIDE JELLY USP, 2%..and it does help a lot...i beleive it is an antibacterial jelly and it numbs the skin..so far we found that out by ourselves, when i run out of it i am going to have my dr. give me an rx for it..good luck
ss555
10-28-2008, 10:09 AM
Caroline42,
Isn't that weird, that, that medicine would help. Then again, it's just helping numb it so that you don't itch. I would love to know what this condition is, last night I spent time again itching. I got up and took a Benedryl and then "washed" my arms down with Epsom and then applied the Lubriderm. The Benedryl knocked me out, so I no longer itched. It's so frustrating, such an odd problem with no tell tale signs! Thanks for replying, maybe all together we'll find out the cause/cure.
Isn't that weird, that, that medicine would help. Then again, it's just helping numb it so that you don't itch. I would love to know what this condition is, last night I spent time again itching. I got up and took a Benedryl and then "washed" my arms down with Epsom and then applied the Lubriderm. The Benedryl knocked me out, so I no longer itched. It's so frustrating, such an odd problem with no tell tale signs! Thanks for replying, maybe all together we'll find out the cause/cure.
caroline42
10-29-2008, 01:58 AM
hi, well it helps me alot don't know if my dr. will give me a rx for it but i will beg..i can't image what harm it will do to my arm i'm sure nothing..also he gave me an rx for fluocinonide 0.05%..but when i looked it up , it has some drawbacks i would rather stay with what i am using...it really is a problem...whatever it is?????
jsimertz1
10-29-2008, 07:50 AM
I'm going to my dermatologist this Friday. I'm not exactly hopeful but who knows maybe he'll have an answer. I'll keep everyone posted.
Jill
Jill
ss555
10-30-2008, 10:15 AM
Jill,
Good luck Friday, I'll hope for the best, my appt. is not until December! That was the first I could get.
Good luck Friday, I'll hope for the best, my appt. is not until December! That was the first I could get.
michael56
11-10-2008, 04:32 AM
I have had this problem for 6 years now. Believe me I have tried everything . I have the same problem as I sit here at this moment after a staggered nights sleep. My scottish doctor who is pretty damgood and from the " old " school gave me kotozone cream. Thats how they spell it here in Germany anyway .I must say even though it did not cure it it certainly gave me some respite. Ice packs also work but they are difficult to keep in place when trying to sleep. Also there is the problem of keeping the sheets dry. Maybe someone could come up with an idea to make armlet type sleeves that you could put into the fridge and slip on before one goes to bed . Maybe there is an entrepenour out there ready to make a few bucks on this idea . If so send me a pair , postage free of course !
joansartiers
11-10-2008, 05:24 AM
Be careful when using cortisone creams, they thin out the skin and should only be used as directed under medical supervision. Cortisone creams help to reduce itchyness and swelling of the skin, have you tried using calamine lotion or pinetarsol solutions? These products do the same effect, but are better to use more frequently compared to the cortisone creams. Maybe there is an allergy involved with soap, shampoo/conditioners and even washing detergent. Have an allergy test done by your doctor
michael56
11-10-2008, 01:48 PM
Be careful when using cortisone creams, they thin out the skin and should only be used as directed under medical supervision. Cortisone creams help to reduce itchyness and swelling of the skin, have you tried using calamine lotion or pinetarsol solutions? These products do the same effect, but are better to use more frequently compared to the cortisone creams. Maybe there is an allergy involved with soap, shampoo/conditioners and even washing detergent. Have an allergy test done by your doctorI have done that ...still no joy ....thanks anyway
carlaleealbert
11-20-2008, 12:47 AM
I have done that ...still no joy ....thanks anyway
Try CAPSAICIN. It is over the counter. I have itchy rash on forearms that gets worse the more you touch it. I went to the DR today and this is what he told me to get. It is actually a nerve problem you are having, not skin. This is why you dont see a rash on the skin. Check into CAPSAICIN please. You will be amazed!
Try CAPSAICIN. It is over the counter. I have itchy rash on forearms that gets worse the more you touch it. I went to the DR today and this is what he told me to get. It is actually a nerve problem you are having, not skin. This is why you dont see a rash on the skin. Check into CAPSAICIN please. You will be amazed!
carlaleealbert
11-20-2008, 12:48 AM
I have had this problem for 6 years now. Believe me I have tried everything . I have the same problem as I sit here at this moment after a staggered nights sleep. My scottish doctor who is pretty damgood and from the " old " school gave me kotozone cream. Thats how they spell it here in Germany anyway .I must say even though it did not cure it it certainly gave me some respite. Ice packs also work but they are difficult to keep in place when trying to sleep. Also there is the problem of keeping the sheets dry. Maybe someone could come up with an idea to make armlet type sleeves that you could put into the fridge and slip on before one goes to bed . Maybe there is an entrepenour out there ready to make a few bucks on this idea . If so send me a pair , postage free of course !
CAPSAICIN. It is over the counter. I have itchy rash on forearms that gets worse the more you touch it. I went to the DR today and this is what he told me to get. It is actually a nerve problem you are having, not skin. This is why you dont see a rash on the skin. Check into CAPSAICIN please. You will be amazed!
CAPSAICIN. It is over the counter. I have itchy rash on forearms that gets worse the more you touch it. I went to the DR today and this is what he told me to get. It is actually a nerve problem you are having, not skin. This is why you dont see a rash on the skin. Check into CAPSAICIN please. You will be amazed!
jsimertz1
11-20-2008, 08:24 AM
I agree, Capsaicin does work. I went to my dermatologist a few weeks ago and they weren't sure at all what it was. Thought it might be a sunlight allergy but then why do I get it in the winter when I wear long sleeves. Anyway, he told me the ingredients in Capsaicin actually work on the nerve receptors and will block the feeling. It worked for me anyway.
carlaleealbert
11-21-2008, 01:15 AM
I agree, Capsaicin does work. I went to my dermatologist a few weeks ago and they weren't sure at all what it was. Thought it might be a sunlight allergy but then why do I get it in the winter when I wear long sleeves. Anyway, he told me the ingredients in Capsaicin actually work on the nerve receptors and will block the feeling. It worked for me anyway.
I was told though it will come and go with weather changes too. I also had spots on my shoulders/back/chest from the sun and they itched so bad! I was given some pills to take and it made me so sensitive to the sun that I could not be in it. Anyway, I stay out of the sun for now but this rash on my forearms is "nerve" related as you know. I just hope people that have the same issue try CAPSAICIN. I read about so many people having the same problem as me and did not know what to do and went to Dr's and they did not know. I am glad I finally went and got this checked out. The burning sensation from the Capsaicin will go away after a few days they told me. It sure beats the severe itching I had! :)
I was told though it will come and go with weather changes too. I also had spots on my shoulders/back/chest from the sun and they itched so bad! I was given some pills to take and it made me so sensitive to the sun that I could not be in it. Anyway, I stay out of the sun for now but this rash on my forearms is "nerve" related as you know. I just hope people that have the same issue try CAPSAICIN. I read about so many people having the same problem as me and did not know what to do and went to Dr's and they did not know. I am glad I finally went and got this checked out. The burning sensation from the Capsaicin will go away after a few days they told me. It sure beats the severe itching I had! :)
michael56
11-21-2008, 03:35 AM
CAPSAICIN. It is over the counter. I have itchy rash on forearms that gets worse the more you touch it. I went to the DR today and this is what he told me to get. It is actually a nerve problem you are having, not skin. This is why you dont see a rash on the skin. Check into CAPSAICIN please. You will be amazed!
thanks for the tip . I have itchy arms now and have had it for 3 weeks . The longest period ever for me. I will go out today and buy some capsaicin and tell you later the results . Fingers crossed !
thanks for the tip . I have itchy arms now and have had it for 3 weeks . The longest period ever for me. I will go out today and buy some capsaicin and tell you later the results . Fingers crossed !
carlaleealbert
11-22-2008, 01:17 AM
thanks for the tip . I have itchy arms now and have had it for 3 weeks . The longest period ever for me. I will go out today and buy some capsaicin and tell you later the results . Fingers crossed !
Good luck and I will be thinking of you. I know what it is like to itch like this and not to have a rash. I am glad I went to the Dr and never suspected that this was caused by my nerves but it makes sense I guess. The downside is the Capsaicin is really hot but my Dr claims this will subside after a few days. This is the 3rd day and I actually felt a little itching earlier and put more on it. The feeling from the med is like is like having a sunburn and then going back out in the sun while you still have sunburn. I am glad I dont have the itching anylonger (for now at least). Let me know how it works for you. :)
Good luck and I will be thinking of you. I know what it is like to itch like this and not to have a rash. I am glad I went to the Dr and never suspected that this was caused by my nerves but it makes sense I guess. The downside is the Capsaicin is really hot but my Dr claims this will subside after a few days. This is the 3rd day and I actually felt a little itching earlier and put more on it. The feeling from the med is like is like having a sunburn and then going back out in the sun while you still have sunburn. I am glad I dont have the itching anylonger (for now at least). Let me know how it works for you. :)
jsimertz1
11-23-2008, 10:01 AM
The burning did go away, at least for me. The first time I used it the reaction was pretty severe. Like you said a bad sunburn, but I also got some swelling and turned very red. The next day no swelling, third day no redness and then it became just a light heat sensation. Now it just immediately takes away the itch.
I hope more people who suffer from this will learn about capsaicin. I suffered for years, went to many doctors, spent hundreds of dollars on different lotions and potions and nothing helped. Plus most doctors seem to think it's just in your head. It's difficult to describe the horrible intense itch that can keep you awake for nights on end and kind of take over your life.
Good luck to you and hope it helps.
I hope more people who suffer from this will learn about capsaicin. I suffered for years, went to many doctors, spent hundreds of dollars on different lotions and potions and nothing helped. Plus most doctors seem to think it's just in your head. It's difficult to describe the horrible intense itch that can keep you awake for nights on end and kind of take over your life.
Good luck to you and hope it helps.
michael56
11-24-2008, 07:23 AM
Well I whent out and bought some capsaisin cream and guess what ? ....IT WORKS!!!!!
I cannot thank all those scratchers on this web site who have donated their ideas . What a relief! To think I have had this problem for years now and it was so easily solved .As you say I have a slight burning sensation , but hey , so what !A million thanks to all . I only hope more people see this and decide to do the same . Heres to itch free nights and days !
I cannot thank all those scratchers on this web site who have donated their ideas . What a relief! To think I have had this problem for years now and it was so easily solved .As you say I have a slight burning sensation , but hey , so what !A million thanks to all . I only hope more people see this and decide to do the same . Heres to itch free nights and days !
carlaleealbert
11-24-2008, 09:30 AM
Well I whent out and bought some capsaisin cream and guess what ? ....IT WORKS!!!!!
I cannot thank all those scratchers on this web site who have donated their ideas . What a relief! To think I have had this problem for years now and it was so easily solved .As you say I have a slight burning sensation , but hey , so what !A million thanks to all . I only hope more people see this and decide to do the same . Heres to itch free nights and days !
I am glad it worked! That is terrific! I hope other people see it too! Good luck to you.
I cannot thank all those scratchers on this web site who have donated their ideas . What a relief! To think I have had this problem for years now and it was so easily solved .As you say I have a slight burning sensation , but hey , so what !A million thanks to all . I only hope more people see this and decide to do the same . Heres to itch free nights and days !
I am glad it worked! That is terrific! I hope other people see it too! Good luck to you.
carlaleealbert
11-25-2008, 03:20 AM
It is normal for the first few day or so to have very red burning and almost swelling like symptoms from the Capsaicin. The DR did say that after a few days that will subside. I notice when I took a shower the area where I applied it was really hot. 12 hrs after I used it last I rubbed up against my husbands side and he actually had the burning sensation from the Capsaicin on him. What is weird is that I had not applied it to my skin for over 12hrs. That stuff is potent but it helps. This is safe to take every day for the rest of your life too. Not that you want to do that but it is nice to know. Not sure about all of you other people out there with this same itching issue but my Dr. said it is a nerve issue possibly steming from a whiplash accident years ago. At first when he asked me if I had ever had whiplash before I looked at him and thought to myself, another Dr who does not know what I have. From the whiplash, the nerves in my neck that go down my arms and are causing these symptoms. I dont get though why any of your Drs were not aware of this being a possibility? I used to live in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and the Drs there were not very knowledgeable. I since moved to Madison, Wisconsin and it seems these Dr.s here know so much more. Years ago my Dr in FDL was treating my itchy problem on my forearms as if I had an allergy there having me put creams on my arms that were not safe to use for any period of time. Coincidentally my itching went away for several years and it now came back. I really thought my husband thought I was crazy when I told him about how severe the itching was and yet there was nothing on my arms to prove anything was wrong with me. Thank god he is very supportive and caring. I just really hope that my message gets out there to all those people who have the same itching as we do so they can get some type of relief! All of you people who read this should go back to their Dr.s with this information and set them straight. I feel bad that all of you have spend so much money on Dr. bills to not get any answers or relief. Please keep me posted on how everyone out there is doing with the Capsaicin. :)
radish1
12-01-2008, 05:46 PM
Im so glad to find others with these symptoms - for the last 3 yrs now this has also affected me for a month or more at a time throughout the years. At first I thought it was an allergic reaction, maybe to woollen clothing or biological washing powder. However, I do not think this is the case now. As others have posted here, it can be debilitating at times, I often look like I have strange spasms as I try to avoid scratching but then it gets too much! The worst thing is the more you scratch the worse it gets!! I have been to a couple of doctors as now it is getting ridiculous - I often cry with frustration and feel like chopping my arms off! I was prescribed antihistamine tablets the 2nd time this happened to me and it seemed to work after a few days. However, this year I have now been itching, mostly my right upper arm up to my shoulder, and antihistamine/allergy relief has done nothing. As other seem to say, ice/cool water seems to be the only temporary relief. I felt I could not cope with this anymore so have been researching intently and have found this interesting link:
http://www.dermnetnz.org/site-age-specific/brachioradial-pruritus.html
I am going to the chemist right now to try and find Capsaicin cream and will post a report shortly on if it seems to have any positive effect!
http://www.dermnetnz.org/site-age-specific/brachioradial-pruritus.html
I am going to the chemist right now to try and find Capsaicin cream and will post a report shortly on if it seems to have any positive effect!
carlaleealbert
12-02-2008, 01:31 PM
Im so glad to find others with these symptoms - for the last 3 yrs now this has also affected me for a month or more at a time throughout the years. At first I thought it was an allergic reaction, maybe to woollen clothing or biological washing powder. However, I do not think this is the case now. As others have posted here, it can be debilitating at times, I often look like I have strange spasms as I try to avoid scratching but then it gets too much! The worst thing is the more you scratch the worse it gets!! I have been to a couple of doctors as now it is getting ridiculous - I often cry with frustration and feel like chopping my arms off! I was prescribed antihistamine tablets the 2nd time this happened to me and it seemed to work after a few days. However, this year I have now been itching, mostly my right upper arm up to my shoulder, and antihistamine/allergy relief has done nothing. As other seem to say, ice/cool water seems to be the only temporary relief. I felt I could not cope with this anymore so have been researching intently and have found this interesting link:
http://www.dermnetnz.org/site-age-specific/brachioradial-pruritus.html
I am going to the chemist right now to try and find Capsaicin cream and will post a report shortly on if it seems to have any positive effect!
Hi, I hope the Capsaicin works for you. It did for me. I had to use it every day 2-3 time a day for about 1 1/2 weeks. You dont want to get that stuff on your hands then rub it in your eyes though so I used the stuff that came in a bottle so that when you applied it to your body it does not touch your hands. I also rubbed against my husband 4 hrs after I applied it and he got it on him even though this stuff was dried on my body so you have to be careful because it is hot. The good thing is that it really works. I stopped using this after 1 1/2 weeks. I am fine now. Thank god because the itching was horrible. My Dr too says the itching is probably from nerve damage. It can also be from arthritis he said but he thinks I am too old for that. Let me know if this works for you!
http://www.dermnetnz.org/site-age-specific/brachioradial-pruritus.html
I am going to the chemist right now to try and find Capsaicin cream and will post a report shortly on if it seems to have any positive effect!
Hi, I hope the Capsaicin works for you. It did for me. I had to use it every day 2-3 time a day for about 1 1/2 weeks. You dont want to get that stuff on your hands then rub it in your eyes though so I used the stuff that came in a bottle so that when you applied it to your body it does not touch your hands. I also rubbed against my husband 4 hrs after I applied it and he got it on him even though this stuff was dried on my body so you have to be careful because it is hot. The good thing is that it really works. I stopped using this after 1 1/2 weeks. I am fine now. Thank god because the itching was horrible. My Dr too says the itching is probably from nerve damage. It can also be from arthritis he said but he thinks I am too old for that. Let me know if this works for you!
sayword
01-04-2009, 04:56 PM
I too have suffered for at least five years with the "nerve itch", for me it only starts in the fall and will last till around February if I am lucky, I have tried just about everything ,I and my doctors (dermatologist, family doc. , physical thereapist etc.). I too had a significant whip lash in my teens ( I am now 57), I do believe this "itch" comes from my neck, therefore did P.T. (not helpful), what really confuses me is that my arms only itch in the fall. This year it has been really bad and mainly on my right arm. This "itch" is hard to talk about as no one really understands, and ice is the ONLY thing that has helped me, unfortunately the capsicum was not helpful. I have tried neuro meds like Neurontin and it only gave me side effects. I go everywhere with my ice, i sleep with a pack beside me, there are times where an attack will last 10 hours! I am so frustrated with what to do to help myself, maybe I will again try tx. for my neck. It is so good to hear that I am not alone and feeling crazy that I have this itch with no rash, I sometimes get red dots from scratching that run along the nerve line! Thank you for listening, from another nerve itcher
tlea4
09-24-2009, 07:12 AM
I have been afflicted with this painful arm burning and itching for 7 years. It seems to be seasonal - starting in September after summer and lasting 2-3 months. The pain and itching is worse at night and only relieved by ice packs. I have seen physicians and been prescribed topical creams, taken steroids and antihistamines but nothing relieves this debilitating problem. I believe it is triggered by sun exposure but only during this time of year. It seems to be nerve pain as it travels year to year from shoulders to forearms - possibly following a nerve. It affects both arms at the same spot each time. It is a burning, tingling, prickling type of pain and is only relieved by ice. I found others on this site who are afflicted with this pain - but ice seems to be the only remedy and I have found no real cause. I wonder if it affects females more than males and if others have found this to be seasonal. Because it causes sleepless nights, it has become debilitating over the years. At times I think that I am crazy because there is no rash or marks unless I claw myself during the night. I hope that one day I can find a cause and cure.
I have the exact problem and have had for 20 years. It is only on my left arm. It started on my forearm, but now even goes up to my shoulder. It is called Brachioradial Pruritus. There is an article by Adele Michaels about her condition. I tried everything she said but it did not work for me. I am now seeing a ciorpracter and found out that I have a deteriorating disc at L5 and were working on that right now. Ill keep everyone posted. I cant take this much longer. Im not sleeping and my arm is about clawed off. Ice packs are the only thing that helps.
I have the exact problem and have had for 20 years. It is only on my left arm. It started on my forearm, but now even goes up to my shoulder. It is called Brachioradial Pruritus. There is an article by Adele Michaels about her condition. I tried everything she said but it did not work for me. I am now seeing a ciorpracter and found out that I have a deteriorating disc at L5 and were working on that right now. Ill keep everyone posted. I cant take this much longer. Im not sleeping and my arm is about clawed off. Ice packs are the only thing that helps.
tlea4
09-24-2009, 07:21 AM
Hello Marchmaddness11,
I read with much interest your post. I am up in the middle of this night because of the exact problem you have. It is the reason for coming to this website. Everything you mention is like I wrote it. The weird thing is that I also have had this a number of years and does seem to be brought on with sun exposure. Two weeks ago I was at a soccer game and my left arm was in partial sun, the other arm shaded by a tree. That night the itching started and I'm having more and more episodes. It's going to drive me crazy. I have tried Benedryl cream on it and it doesn't help much. It seems to be internal for sure. Tonight when I awoke scratching my arms raw, I filled the sink with warm water and put in some Epsom salts, it helped a wee bit. Does anyone have any idea what causes it? I have a dermatologist appt. in Dec.!! but after reading these posts don't have much confidence it will be remedied.
I read with much interest your post. I am up in the middle of this night because of the exact problem you have. It is the reason for coming to this website. Everything you mention is like I wrote it. The weird thing is that I also have had this a number of years and does seem to be brought on with sun exposure. Two weeks ago I was at a soccer game and my left arm was in partial sun, the other arm shaded by a tree. That night the itching started and I'm having more and more episodes. It's going to drive me crazy. I have tried Benedryl cream on it and it doesn't help much. It seems to be internal for sure. Tonight when I awoke scratching my arms raw, I filled the sink with warm water and put in some Epsom salts, it helped a wee bit. Does anyone have any idea what causes it? I have a dermatologist appt. in Dec.!! but after reading these posts don't have much confidence it will be remedied.
tlea4
09-24-2009, 07:26 AM
Try the ciorpracter. I found that I had a deterorating disc at L5. I have had this for 20 years. only on my left arm. Sun dosent cause it. Although it can irritate it. I buy the Gel ice packs and keep 4 in the freezer at all times. It is all that works. I have this every year and it lasts 6 to 8 weeks at a time.Ive had it in September, Feburary, May, June , July...... no rime or reason. Im hoping these ciorp[ractic treatment are going to help. It is called Brachioradial Pruritus.
laurie0313
09-24-2009, 11:26 AM
I have had an itchy spot on the upper part of one of my legs...for 30 years. It used to bother me day and night but I think I got used to it and now it's most noticeable at night. I, too, would wake up scratching, even to the point of bleeding.
I have been to numerous dermatologists and they shrug their shoulders and say they don't know what it is. I have long thought it was a nerve problem but no one has ever considered this until the last dermatologist. She suggested capcaicin and I've been using it for three days. It still burns terribly, although there is no redness. Obviously, with this feeling, I don't dare scratch the itch because it would be quite painful. However, I still feel the itch under the burning. I'm assuming the burn is to trick the itch.??
Will this burning sensation go away? I'm supposed to apply 5x a day. It's nearly all the time, having clothing on it irritates it, and, as another writer said, taking a shower causes it to hurt even more. It feels like a third degree burn.
Any suggestions? I will call the doctor if this doesn't stop by tomorrow. Anyone else experience this?
I have been to numerous dermatologists and they shrug their shoulders and say they don't know what it is. I have long thought it was a nerve problem but no one has ever considered this until the last dermatologist. She suggested capcaicin and I've been using it for three days. It still burns terribly, although there is no redness. Obviously, with this feeling, I don't dare scratch the itch because it would be quite painful. However, I still feel the itch under the burning. I'm assuming the burn is to trick the itch.??
Will this burning sensation go away? I'm supposed to apply 5x a day. It's nearly all the time, having clothing on it irritates it, and, as another writer said, taking a shower causes it to hurt even more. It feels like a third degree burn.
Any suggestions? I will call the doctor if this doesn't stop by tomorrow. Anyone else experience this?
getsymbolic
09-24-2009, 08:45 PM
I have been afflicted with this painful arm burning and itching for 7 years. It seems to be seasonal - starting in September after summer and lasting 2-3 months. The pain and itching is worse at night and only relieved by ice packs. I have seen physicians and been prescribed topical creams, taken steroids and antihistamines but nothing relieves this debilitating problem. I believe it is triggered by sun exposure but only during this time of year. It seems to be nerve pain as it travels year to year from shoulders to forearms - possibly following a nerve. It affects both arms at the same spot each time. It is a burning, tingling, prickling type of pain and is only relieved by ice. I found others on this site who are afflicted with this pain - but ice seems to be the only remedy and I have found no real cause. I wonder if it affects females more than males and if others have found this to be seasonal. Because it causes sleepless nights, it has become debilitating over the years. At times I think that I am crazy because there is no rash or marks unless I claw myself during the night. I hope that one day I can find a cause and cure.
I am a male and have been dealing with this as well. I have never taken notice of the seasonal aspect. This problem has just re occured mid September, so I will now follow its cycle. The best relief I have found, is to apply a thick layer of an over the counter cream called Calmoseptine and I then cut the toe out of a sock and put the sock on, to cover it. If you pick a cool sock and wear the heel at the elbow, it just might look good.
I am a male and have been dealing with this as well. I have never taken notice of the seasonal aspect. This problem has just re occured mid September, so I will now follow its cycle. The best relief I have found, is to apply a thick layer of an over the counter cream called Calmoseptine and I then cut the toe out of a sock and put the sock on, to cover it. If you pick a cool sock and wear the heel at the elbow, it just might look good.
itchyarms
09-26-2009, 01:02 AM
marchmadness11---well alrighty then....i have this same issue!!!!! this is the second summer that this is happening...it seems to start at the beginning of the summer, & is still going on now. it's mostly my shoulders & upper arms above the elbows. Until 3 weeks ago, mainly seemed to happen at night, around 10 or 11 pm. usually it kicks in really bad around 1 a.m, and i wake up scratching the hell out of my arms and i can't go back to sleep, until 5 or 6 am. i was trying to figure out if it was allergy to sun, self tanner ( i mistakenly used it at start of both summers, but all over my body so i can't figure out why just itching on my arms), caffeine, bacteria in the long island sound from swimming, stress or not drinking enough water..it feels like i have little fiberglass shards in my arms poking their way out of the skin really sharp and fast & it's worst just under my armpits, as well as along the tops of my shoulders. it travels down to elbows but not always so bad there. I am female, 43, in fairly good shape, a swimmer, and jogger who doesn't eat junk food or crap. valerian pills seem to help me get back to sleep at night, but not right away, and hot water showers help a little bit as well. cocobutter seems to help a bit, but the ithcing is from the inside, not topical from dry skin. i am going to an allergist when my health insurance is verified next week and will post as soon as i find out anything. this is horrible, but at least i know i am not crazy!!!!
itchyarms
09-26-2009, 01:42 AM
p.s. i just read through all the posts...will try capsaicin tomorrow..but also.. just realized from what someone else said about whiplash- i was hit by a drunk dirver in september of 2007 and had to go to pt for over a year until the numbness in my legs started to go away...last summer was the first summer this happened to me, and it was also the first summer after the car accident. now this is the second summer. I didn't put 2 and 2 together until i read the post about whiplash ( i think from carlalee???). i will see if the x-rays or mri s from the accident show any disc damage. thank you soooo much for your posts...i can't believe i finally found something out. i'll post again when i have any results.
carlaleealbert
09-26-2009, 09:10 AM
use capsaisin - it will work. I have the exact same issue and the dermatologist suggested that and he was right. I too had whiplash years ago - it is a nerve issue and this will come on and off all your life.
shasa
10-04-2009, 09:22 AM
Well I have had the same problem,but it has only started 5 days ago.I was going to get beneyldril i hope that works. Good luck to you:p
boogabear
10-12-2009, 10:59 AM
I have read these posts with intense interest. I have had seasonal itching for several years and doctors have told me it is dry skin and I shouldn't shower frequently (ug!) and use a lubriderm type product. That rarely helps much.
Itching began in my arches and calves then it began around my beltline. I suspected laundry soap. I went to 'free'. No change in anything. I had relief in the summer. Sun cannot play a part in my experience. Now that fall is upon us in PA itching began in earnest. Arches, calves and now for the first the neck and upper chest area. Itches day and night and of course awakes me at night. Creams do not help! Temporary relief is before leaving the shower, I use the wand and turn the hot water up and soak the affected areas. It stings. Immediately I turn on the cold water and douse the same areas. This will give relief enough to get to sleep and sometimes the entire night,. I also take a cold pack with me to relive any stubborn areas. I do not see anyone suspecting laundry soap. Does this play a part? Are there any products especially forumlated for us. My 'free' product does not say it is free of petroleum byproducts. .
Itching began in my arches and calves then it began around my beltline. I suspected laundry soap. I went to 'free'. No change in anything. I had relief in the summer. Sun cannot play a part in my experience. Now that fall is upon us in PA itching began in earnest. Arches, calves and now for the first the neck and upper chest area. Itches day and night and of course awakes me at night. Creams do not help! Temporary relief is before leaving the shower, I use the wand and turn the hot water up and soak the affected areas. It stings. Immediately I turn on the cold water and douse the same areas. This will give relief enough to get to sleep and sometimes the entire night,. I also take a cold pack with me to relive any stubborn areas. I do not see anyone suspecting laundry soap. Does this play a part? Are there any products especially forumlated for us. My 'free' product does not say it is free of petroleum byproducts. .
boogabear
10-12-2009, 11:03 AM
I have been afflicted with this painful arm burning and itching for 7 years. It seems to be seasonal - starting in September after summer and lasting 2-3 months. The pain and itching is worse at night and only relieved by ice packs. I have seen physicians and been prescribed topical creams, taken steroids and antihistamines but nothing relieves this debilitating problem. I believe it is triggered by sun exposure but only during this time of year. It seems to be nerve pain as it travels year to year from shoulders to forearms - possibly following a nerve. It affects both arms at the same spot each time. It is a burning, tingling, prickling type of pain and is only relieved by ice. I found others on this site who are afflicted with this pain - but ice seems to be the only remedy and I have found no real cause. I wonder if it affects females more than males and if others have found this to be seasonal. Because it causes sleepless nights, it has become debilitating over the years. At times I think that I am crazy because there is no rash or marks unless I claw myself during the night. I hope that one day I can find a cause and cure.
Cablegirl91
10-22-2009, 10:35 AM
I am here with the same thing in hopes of some help!! I've read the first page and I thought I could have written this myself!! I am printing the rest off to read tonight (i am at work ughhhh) I'm so shocked to see that I am not alone in this! No one I know has this problem and I've been really frustrated with it.
ss555
10-23-2009, 07:40 AM
I have found relief and hope it lasts. What I have done is switch to "free" detergent and use no softners either. And a product that has made an amazing difference for me is Aveeno Skin Relief Shower & Bath Oil. It claims to be a moisturizing formula for relief of dry itchy skin. At the end of my showering, I squirt some on my arms and just rub in. So far this is the first fall I have been almost itch free, I have used benedryl and it does help somewhat but not like this simple shower solution has. Good luck to all
Marchmadness11
10-23-2009, 10:13 AM
After 8 years of suffering this painful itching burning on my arms, I went for an x ray of my neck. Never had any problems with my neck, but was advised by physician friends. It turns out, I have a significant degenerative disease, pushing on the nerves causing this problem. Seeing a neck specialist today, to hopefully get an answer. The problem only bothers me setpember through December, but possibly due to changes in barometric pressure and in the evening and overnight due to changes in body fluids. I advise all to get MRI of the neck. I have read this before, but because I never had neck problems, didn't see the purpose. The condition is called Brachioradial pruritis. Neck problems and sun exposure have been linked. I hope that you all find relief! Hopefully my nights with painful arms and icepacks will come to an end.
Cablegirl91
10-26-2009, 06:55 PM
I have had the same problem yall are describing I've had it for 2 years...I notice that stress and anxiety seems to make it worse. Mine is the upper forearms all the way to my fingers and on my knees down to my toes...The more I scratch the more it itches, I will claw till there is absolutely NO SKIN left. I work at a Police Dept. and they all kid me about having meth sores. When its really bad I probably look like I DO have Meth Sores, It gets embarrassing when I have several scabbs from where I have scratched so much.
I have been to Dr. after Dr. and I've used what they gave me, Creams, steriods, antibiotics and it gets better but then it comes back. Mine seems to be worse in the Fall but I do have year round spurts of this too!!
I bought some capsasian but I have small children and I'm afraid that when I use it, it might rub off on them. I'm going to try it when they are not around, which isn't often. I've never tried the Ice packs but the next attack I have I will try it.
What concerns me is Seems that No Dr's I've seen knows WHAT is causing it!! I would really LOVE to know the Root of the Problem as well as treatment for the problem.
I have been to Dr. after Dr. and I've used what they gave me, Creams, steriods, antibiotics and it gets better but then it comes back. Mine seems to be worse in the Fall but I do have year round spurts of this too!!
I bought some capsasian but I have small children and I'm afraid that when I use it, it might rub off on them. I'm going to try it when they are not around, which isn't often. I've never tried the Ice packs but the next attack I have I will try it.
What concerns me is Seems that No Dr's I've seen knows WHAT is causing it!! I would really LOVE to know the Root of the Problem as well as treatment for the problem.
carlaleealbert
10-27-2009, 10:08 PM
I too was told the itching on my arms was from a whiplash accident. It is funny cause it only happens when it turns could out. This time though my legs itched too which is not from a whiplash accident they said. They ran a lot of tests such as a check for cancer of the limpnodes in the chest, they check for Hepatitis B and C because I have tatoos and according to them, itching of the body is a symptom of those I listed. Everything came back negative so I am chalking this severe intense itch due to the change in the weather (cold). It mostly bothers me at night and keeps me up. I think the reason it bothers people more at night is due to changes in bodily fluids etc.
Cablegirl91
11-19-2009, 04:42 PM
After going from Dr. to Dr. with them scratching their heads in confusuion. I asked my Family Dr. if it could be the clonopin that I am taking and she said It very well could be....I have been on it a little over 2 years and I have had this itching problem for about 2 years. I got online to look at the side effects and one of the side effects were.."Skin Disorders" Why Hadn't a Dr. thought of this!?!?!
I have not had a Clonopin in over a week (she replaced it with another pill to help me sleep :-)) I have not had the first problem with itching!!! I am Hopeing and Praying that is the problem
I just wanted to pass this information along to everyone, Incase you are taking clonopin that could be the problem for you too!!
I have not had a Clonopin in over a week (she replaced it with another pill to help me sleep :-)) I have not had the first problem with itching!!! I am Hopeing and Praying that is the problem
I just wanted to pass this information along to everyone, Incase you are taking clonopin that could be the problem for you too!!