Does anyone else with PBC experience itching?
Yes, itching is extremely common with PBC. About 73-81% of people with PBC experience itchy skin at some point. You're definitely not alone in this.
Many myPBCteam members share similar struggles:
* "My left hand is itching so badly that I have scratched the top layer of skin Show Full Answer
Does anyone else with PBC experience itching?
Yes, itching is extremely common with PBC. About 73-81% of people with PBC experience itchy skin at some point. You're definitely not alone in this.
Many myPBCteam members share similar struggles:
* "My left hand is itching so badly that I have scratched the top layer of skin off and it bled."
* "Just trying to make it day-to-day without scratching my skin into shreds and bleeding."
* "I have super dry skin so I'm always using lotions and oils on my body and my feet. Not sure what else to do?"
For about 30% of people with PBC, the itching is severe enough to interfere with daily life. It often gets worse at night and commonly affects the hands, feet, arms, and legs. How to manage the itching:
Talk with your doctor about these options:
First-line treatments:
* Cholestyramine - helps remove bile salts that trigger itching
* Antihistamines - may help you sleep through the discomfort at night, though they don't stop PBC-related itch directly
Second-line medications if first treatments don't work:
* Rifampin - reduces itch signals to the brain
* Naltrexone - blocks natural opioids that may contribute to itching
* Sertraline (an SSRI) - may help reduce itch
Self-care strategies:
* Use lotions and oils regularly to combat dry skin
* Try cool compresses or moisturizers
* Avoid hot showers which can worsen itching
New treatments like linerixibat are being studied and may become available soon. Don't suffer in silence - work with your doctor to find what helps you.
November 16, 2025
Join
Your Privacy Choices
