Itchy Skin

[Barmaid]

For about 6-8 weeks now, I've had really itchy skin. I initially put it down to the cold weather (I do suffer from dry skin in the cold).

This is only my upper arms, chest and upper back.

The last two days it has been absolute hell.

I haven't changed my washing powder. I use Sanex shower gel and I moisturise it with Diprobase cream (which seems to help).

However, yesterday it was hideous. I was covered in lots of random red spots - a couple of which were raw. And boy did it itch. I took some piriton and it seemed to calm it down. It's not quite so angry today, but is still a bit of a flaming nuisance.

I'm at a total loss as to what is causing this - the fact that it is localised to the top half is a bit strange (ie there is nothing below my bra or my elbows).

any ideas?

[Sqad]

Ok....then it does sound like an allergic rash or even a neurodermatitis (anxiety state). Take the Piriton three times a day and let me have an update at the weekend.

[Barmaid]

Thank you. Will do.

[emmie]

seeing as i posted something similar, and have been wondering if it's age related, or some kind of psychological reaction to stress. I can't stop it either, and haven't changed any products, no new soaps, creams, nothing,
i have yet to see the doctor, but am seriously considering it now.
It starts around my lower back, then goes from there, i seem to have become ultra sensitive to hot water as well, flipping eck.

[Barmaid]

Em, Starone, Factor and you other "itchy skin" sufferers, if I find a miracle cure, I'll be sure to let you know. (But don't hold your breath).

[BAKERS DOZEN]

Mr BD has been suffering from exactly the same thing for the past two months. Mad itching on just his back - nowhere else. He has scratched his back until it has bled on occasion as it is driving him mad. Always uses Sanex shower gel etc and I have not changed soap powder or softener but have been wondering if the manufacturers may have changed the recipe. It is driving us both bananas.

[giveup]

Have had something similar for about a month on my neck and but just keep hoping it will go away.At one stage I wondered if I was allergic to my gold chain.upper chest. Have been using germolene and E45 lotion.

[society]

Something is going around on AB and everyone is catching it. :)

I am also having some serious itching on my arms around my elbows and my boobies. I scratch until the areas bleed. Have you ever had a 'sweet' itch? This itch is so out of this world sweet, I compare it to having orgasm, seriously.

I've tried every over-the counter medicine, and prescription stuff, ointment and pills and nothing is working. I put my own down to hormone problem, menopause.

[giveup]

The AB lurgy

[Sammy48]

I have dry itchy skin as well, I personally think its because our skin has been covered up all winter without the air getting to it. I use Australian Bodycare body cream, it contains pure tea tree oil and is a pure antispetic. It certainly helps with any itchy areas, smells lovely and fresh and hydrates the skin.

[askyourgran]

I have itchy skin, on my upper shoulders and dry skin around my ankles which itch when I get warm in bed. I started with eczema on my forehead a few months ago and it's started around my nose and lips. I was prescribed hydrocortisone cream which I can use once a day for five days, but it alwats comes back a few days later. Vaseline or E45 keeps it at bay for a while. I seem to think it must be my hair, I've changed shampoos etc but no difference to my skin. I read that if you take medication regularly that can affect your skin, but my doc doesn't seem to know what to do next.

[cupid04]

I bought a packet of Asda's own [non drowsy] antihistamine tablets. Only cost me £2 for 30. Worked better than any creams and lotions my doctor prescribed. They definitely helped break that irritating itch cycle!