I thought I would start a new thread on this 'itchy arm' topic that some of us were talking about in another thread.
I think I have FINALLY figured out what's causing MY itchy arms. It's called: Brachioradial Pruritus.
QUOTE
Brachioradial pruritis (sometimes abbreviated BRP) is an intense itching sensation of the arm usually between the shoulder and elbow of either or both arms.[1]:36 The itch can be so intense that sufferers will scratch their own skin to a bleeding condition. The cause is not known, although there are a few lines of thought on what causes it. No cure has been found. Many different medications and types of topical creams have been experimented with, but none seem to make any difference. The only thing that seems to help most sufferers is the application of ice to the area until the itch is diminished.
It seems to affect mostly middle-aged women...so that tells me that there must also be a hormonal aspect to this condition as well.
Google 'Brachioradial Pruritus' and you will find several links -- however none of the ones I found seemed to be able to offer any significant treatment options. I am thinking about getting some type of numbing cream to use at night though. My itching can wake me up at night -- it drives me CRAZY. I've found that 'ice packs' really are the best treatment, but I'd rather NOT have to wake up...go to the freezer...and then apply them....and then try to go back to sleep. ugh.
I'm curious about a reference I found that suggested that 'cervical nerve root impingement' my be a cause because I do have neck issues.
ANYWAY....just wanted to share what I found because I know that there a few of us that are going crazy with this itching.
Best wishes,
Jann