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January 19
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A myPBCteam Member

Yes, Linda, down to the bone. I scratch it so badly that sometimes it will
bleed and then bruise. I've just learned from others that hot water isn't
good to shower. I don't use hot water anymore. I now know not to put my
legs next to a heater in the winter. That will set off itching too.
So far, I've not had itching in my legs or arms.
Another place I itch all the time, and it never goes way, is the back of my
left shoulder. Just that area. I'm always scratching it but it doesn't itch
to the bone.
I'm more tired now too.
I hope you have better days.
We have to watch what we do or eat that may trigger the itching.

January 30
A myPBCteam Member

Yes, Debbie. I have the same problem with itching in my legs and arms and
especially my left shoulder and scalp.
The itch is so deep. I get bruises and bleeding also
But, I discovered on the forum listening to others that heat makes it
worse. Hot showers too.
I'm getting more tired now.im so glad you responded to me.
TY

January 23
A myPBCteam Member

Thank u for your reply.
I never knew so many people had PBC

January 19
myPBCteam

Do you experience deep, intense itching in your legs and arms that leads to bruising from scratching?

You're definitely not alone in this struggle. Many people with PBC experience severe itching that feels unbearable, and bruising from scratching is a real concern that others share.

About 73-81% of people with PBC experience Show Full Answer

Do you experience deep, intense itching in your legs and arms that leads to bruising from scratching?

You're definitely not alone in this struggle. Many people with PBC experience severe itching that feels unbearable, and bruising from scratching is a real concern that others share.

About 73-81% of people with PBC experience itchy skin at some point. For roughly 30% of people, the itching is so uncomfortable that it interferes with daily life. The itching often affects the arms, legs, palms of hands, and soles of feet, and tends to get worse later in the day and at night.

Why the bruising happens:

When you scratch deeply or frequently, you can break small blood vessels under your skin, causing bruises. This is especially common with PBC because:

- The intense itching drives you to scratch harder and more often
- PBC can affect vitamin K absorption, which is important for blood clotting
- Your skin may already be more fragile due to the condition

What you can do:

It's really important to talk with your doctor about this symptom, especially since it's affecting your skin. They may recommend:

- Medications specifically targeting PBC-related itching
- Sleep aids or antihistamines to help you rest through the discomfort
- Tools like ice packs or acupressure devices instead of scratching
- Keeping your skin well-moisturized

One myPBCteam member shared: "When I scratch myself, I get black and blue bruises." Another mentioned having a friend help apply lotion to hard-to-reach itchy areas to avoid the bruising from scratching.

Don't try to push through this alone—your healthcare provider can help find treatments to manage this challenging symptom.

January 19

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