Similar story, but some success, doing several things - mine was triggered by a flea infestation, which was unbearable - the exterminator mentioned a menopausal symptom of itchy skin (I overreact to even the adolescent fleas, and to virtually all insect bites), so it's probably partly hormonal; I have back problems off and on, although not in summer for the most part, which is when I have the itchy (upper) arms, so I don't think this is a major contributor. I have hyperthyroidism, but it's in remission. Sun and sweat seem to aggravate it considerably. I stopped a medication with itching as a possible side effect, which helped a bit. It felt to me like my nervous system was overly alert - more "jumpy" than anxious (no dread). I got high blood pressure, and was put on a low dose of beta blockers, which really smoothed it out. In addition, I installed a chlorine filter in the shower, use warm, not hot water, on my dermatologist's recommendation (and moisturizers, used lightly and right away after drying, are hypoallergenic), baths usually include a little epsom salt or Aveeno if it's really bothersome, antihistamines are used if allergies are bothering me, and I sometimes use baby powder, which is s/w soothing - and of course ice. My dermatologist had never heard of beta blockers affecting this, but they were effective for me (and my brother).
Posted By DJ on July 27, 2007 at 06:52:53:
In Reply to: Re: Intense localized itching on arms
posted by Phillip on July 19, 2007 at 22:41:28:
