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Real members of myPBCteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Retirn of the itch after 2 years?????

A myPBCteam Member asked a question 💭
Maine, NY
January 21
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Answer Summary

Members shared their experiences with the unpredictable nature of itching in PBC, noting that it can range from absent to unbearable even when... Read more

Members shared their experiences with the unpredictable nature of itching in PBC, noting that it can range from absent to unbearable even when nothing else seems to have changed. Several members described practical strategies that help manage the symptom, including antihistamines like Claritin, heavy moisturizers such as Eucerin and Cerave applied immediately after lukewarm showers, body oils for longer-lasting relief, and prescription medications like Naltrexone. A recurring theme was the importance of advocating with doctors for relief options, including clinical trials like the Volixibat study at Cleveland Clinic, while also exploring potential triggers through resources like educational videos on bile flow.

A myPBCteam Member

I have itching intermittently. Who knows what the triggers are. I have had pbc for more than 10 years. On ursodiol but numbers have remained 5-6 times normal. Sometimes the itching is 10/10 sometimes absent when nothing else seems to have changed.

January 21
myPBCteam

Is itching returning after 2 years of relief?

Itching from PBC can be unpredictable and may come back even after periods of relief. This happens because bile acids can build up in your body and reach your skin, triggering nerve endings that send itching signals to your brain.

If your itch has returned, it's important to Show Full Answer

Is itching returning after 2 years of relief?

Itching from PBC can be unpredictable and may come back even after periods of relief. This happens because bile acids can build up in your body and reach your skin, triggering nerve endings that send itching signals to your brain.

If your itch has returned, it's important to talk with your doctor. They can evaluate what might be causing the change and adjust your treatment plan. Several factors could be at play, including:

* Changes in how well your current PBC treatment is working
* Progression of PBC
* Bile acid levels fluctuating in your body

What you can do:

Schedule an appointment with your hepatologist to discuss the return of your symptoms. They may recommend adding or adjusting medications specifically for itching, such as cholestyramine, rifampin, or newer treatments like IBAT inhibitors that are showing promise in clinical trials.

In the meantime, try these comfort measures:
* Use cool or lukewarm water when bathing
* Choose gentle, fragrance-free soaps and moisturizers
* Wear loose clothing
* Apply cool, wet cloths to itchy areas

You're not alone in experiencing this—many myPBCteam members have shared similar experiences with itching that comes and goes.

January 21
A myPBCteam Member

I suffer from terrible itching straight after a shower..I always make sure water is not too hot to dry out the skin.. once I slather on plenty of moisturiser it calms down but awful uneasy feeling until it does.

January 23
A myPBCteam Member

Thank God, I haven't experienced any itching!!

January 22
A myPBCteam Member

I'm right there with you. Eucerin & Cerave are good lotions - I like using oils too - they seem to absorb/stay longer.

January 22

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January 21

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