Unbearable Itching at Night! Driving me to despair! Anyone help?

[iamEarthymama]

I am an allergic-y person. I have a history of contact dermatitis and also psoriasis on my feet and lower legs.
I deal with all this with no problem; my legs don't look too pretty but I can survive that.
But I have the most awful, unbearable itching on my upper arms and shoulders. I try not to scratch it but it is almost impossible.
Several spot-like small open wounds on the affected areas now.
I have of course consulted my GP. There was no sign of broken skin so it was just dismissed.
I have also asked Dr Google ??
There are alien theories, ??
all sorts of advice. I have tried cider vinegar which did help but has become less effective. I use ice which certainly helps but isn't always practical.

Please can anyone help? I am so so tired from not sleeping and the constant itching is making me really narky.

[helzapoppin2]

Just a suggestion.You could try taking an antihistamine at night. They are recommended for the relief of itching. I'd try at the weekend if you drive to work as they can zonk you out a bit.

[doziedoozie]

Try an anti histamine.

Have you read Dr Sarno's book. The mind-body prescription? It has an explanation for very irritating, distracting health problems.

[Phineyj]

I think there is sometimes a connection with kidney problems, so maybe get a second opinion from another GP just in case?

[CMOTDibbler]

Slightly random, but I developed manky, itching bits on my lower legs. Turns out that I'm mildly allergic to our leather sofa, and when I sit in the evening my shorter pyjama trousers put that bit of my leg in contact with it where nothing else does. You don't wear a vest top that would put you in contact with something?

[mummylin2495]

There is an ointment called Lanacane which stops itching but I don't know if this would be suitable. It's worth asking in the chemist about it

[Looby2k]

I had something similar when I was pregnant. The itching would start in the evening and last all night, all over my body. I was literally clawing my skin off. It turned out to be obstetric cholestasis. If antihistamines don't work I would ask for a blood test to check your liver function, especially if you have any other signs of jaundice.

[iamEarthymama]

Thanks for your replies.
I have tried anti histamine with no joy, I don't eat gluten as I have adverse reactions,
I don't think it is contact as I use fragrance free anti allergen laundry products.
I am going to go back to the doctors.
Let's hope for more success this time!

[BasketzatDawn]

Yes, definitely ask for liver function tests. Liver problems are quite unusual but it's best to rule out. But an intractable itch especially at night can be a sign.

[Sallystyle]

I would def go back to the GP.

It can also be a sign of a couple of other serious illnesses as well as liver problems.

I get it at times, and it lasts for a few days and then goes and I know how awful it is.

I am sure with no other symptoms it is nothing to worry about but better to rule things out.