Itchy arms

[tlea4]

I have had itchy arms for 20 years. There is no rash, scaling, or anything. It can come on at any time of the year and usually lasts for 6 to 8 weeks. The more I scratch to more it stings and burns. It feels like someone is sticking me repeatedly with a needle. Its driving me crazy!!!! can anyone help. I have heard I could possibly need a neurologist.My arms will bleed I scratch so much. Ice gel packs help more anything Ive tried. I have a drug store in my bathroom , I have bought everything to see if it would help. nothing does. It has been so bad at times that I wish I could die.

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi
Welcome to the forum!
Dry skin is the commonest cause of generalized itching. Applying a moisturizer and using only soaps that are gentle on the skin is helpful in this case.  Generalized itching can be due to allergy. Common allergens are pollen, mold, dust, pet dander, synthetic fiber, cosmetics or drugs. You must get an allergy test done, either a skin test or RAST, to know what you are allergic to. Fungal infections like tinea corporis and tinea cruris too cause itching. Liver problems too can cause generalized itching. If the itch is only in the exposed part (your arm being exposed only), then it can also be due to sun allergy.
Menopause is another reason for this. Low estrogens are supposed to be the cause. Try a diet rich in estrogens. You can try food rich in estrogen. The list is available at: http://dogtorj.net/id46.html
Hormone replacement therapy can also help a few. Consult your gynecologist regarding this.
It would also be a good idea to consult an allergy specialist. Also you can go over the points your self and see what you can eliminate as the cause.
Hope this helps. Please let me know if there is any thing else and do keep me posted. Take care!

[maryrosefitz]

I am going through the same problems as everyone here.  It started over 25 years ago, and has for the most part, been a monkey on my back.  Although it seemed to disappear for a couple of year, it has come back in full force.  Like everyone, the only thing that helps is ice.  I have tried every type of doctor under the sun and even tried Chinese medicine which didn't help one bit.  I think it may stem from a fall I had which was around 25 years ago.  Or it could be a coincidence.  I also take pills for Tyhroid, but I only started those 10 years ago.  I think it relates to a neorology issue.  I belong to another website ***@**** where you will find a lot of others who have the exact same problem. I keep praying  that someone will find a cure for this horrible disease.  I feel your Pain!