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I'm at end stage cirrhosis of the liver and cannot stop itching which is keeping me awake for days
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Hello Anon
Thank you for writing and I'm sorry you're dealing with the frustration of constant itching.
Are you taking anything to help with the itching at the moment?
According to Liver Support
"Physicians may prescribe one of the following for pruritus relief:
Analgesics (pain-relievers) for neuropathic pain (gabapentin)
Antihistamines (Benadryl, Atarax)
Cholesterol-lowering agents (Questran, Colestid)
Opiod antagonists (Narcan, Revia, Revex)
Antidepressants (Zoloft)
Consulting with a physician to find relief from pruritus may yield one of the prescription medications above. However, many doctors forget to encourage their patients to try safer solutions before beginning a new drug that likely has side effects of its own.
Before adding to the pharmaceutical load your liver must process, consider one of these nine more natural itch-relief approaches first:
Cold Packs – A cold pack on the skin will cool heat and relieve intense itching.
Drink Water – Keeping hydrated will help maintain the skin’s suppleness which can reduce itching.
Milk Thistle – This herbal supplement helps prevent toxins from backing up into the bloodstream.
Shower in Tepid Water – Heat aggravates itching. Thus, make sure your bathing water’s temperature is not too hot.
Wear Comfortable Clothing – Loose fitting clothing made from soft, smooth, natural fabrics will prevent excess heat from being trapped against the skin.
Oatmeal Bath – Taking a tepid, colloidal oatmeal bath helps soothe irritated skin.
Avoid Heat and Humidity – During hot and humid weather, seek a cool, air conditioned place to prevent pruritus flares.
Topicals – Besides applying a moisturizer to prevent skin from getting too dry, some over-the-counter topical medications (like hydrocortisone cream and Benadryl lotion) can help reduce itching.
Ice Rub – Instead of scratching, try gently rubbing the itchy area with an ice cube."
Your physician can help you further.
We wish you the best.
July 23, 2018 - 3:39pmSusan
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