Itch caused by nerve damage: Description, identification, remedy, and prognosis
Neuropathic itch, a condition caused by damage to the nervous system, can be a challenging issue to manage. Unlike common itches that stem from skin problems, neuropathic itch originates from damage to the nerves, making it less responsive to topical treatments.
Doctors often prescribe medications to alleviate neuropathic itch symptoms. Oral drugs such as antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, duloxetine, nortriptyline, venlafaxine) and anticonvulsants (gabapentin, pregabalin, carbamazepine, lamotrigine) are commonly used to relieve nerve-related symptoms and improve quality of life [1][3][5]. Topical treatments including lidocaine creams or patches, capsaicin creams or patches, and menthol 1% cream can numb or reduce localized neuropathic itch or pain areas [1][3].
Complementary therapies such as acupuncture, mindfulness meditation, massage, and reflexology may also provide relief. These techniques help improve circulation, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate discomfort [1][5].
For persistent or severe cases, referral to a pain clinic can provide specialist treatments like nerve blocks (injections of local anesthetics or steroids), spinal cord or peripheral nerve stimulation, and psychological support to manage symptoms more effectively [3][5].
Lifestyle and supportive measures can also play a significant role in managing neuropathic itch. Avoiding triggers like hot showers, wearing soft cotton clothing, and skin care to prevent dryness can help reduce itch severity [4]. Cooling water soaks with colloidal oatmeal may provide temporary relief in neuropathic itching in feet [2].
Effectiveness varies among individuals, and a multidisciplinary approach combining medications, topical treatments, physical therapy, and psychological assistance tends to yield the best outcomes [3][5]. It's important to note that many anti-itch medications may not provide relief for neuropathic itch.
People with neuropathic itch may benefit from joining a support group or attending therapy sessions. Skin changes due to constant itching can occur, and if the skin is broken, it can lead to infection. To prevent this, treatments often involve local anesthetics or physical barriers to prevent scratching.
Diagnosing neuropathic itch can be difficult initially, as doctors may assume skin conditions are the cause. In such cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to determine the root cause of persistent skin symptoms.
Symptoms of neuropathic itch include itching, burning, wetness, electric shocks, numbness and tingling, crawling, severe cold, prickling and chilling of the skin, increase in skin sensitivity, and decrease in skin sensitivity. People who scratch vigorously in their sleep may need to protect their skin by covering it with a helmet or bandages.
Injections such as botox and certain anesthetics may also be used as treatment. Advanced interventions like nerve blocks, spinal cord or peripheral nerve stimulation, and psychological support are available for persistent or severe cases. Therapeutic practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may also be beneficial.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3830825/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5792798/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3645863/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4257555/ [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6019657/
- Due to their link with nerve damage, traditional skin care products may not effectively treat neuropathic itch.
- For those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, neuropathic itch can be a prevalent symptom, contributing to mental-health challenges.
- Predictive models in science may help understand the degeneration of nerves associated with neuropathic itch and potentially lead to new therapies and treatments.
- Obesity is linked to an increased risk of developing neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis and type 2 diabetes, which could in turn lead to neuropathic itch.
- Macular degeneration, a common age-related eye condition, is often managed with dietary changes, medication, and laser therapies, but research is ongoing to address its connection with neuropathic itch.
- Psoriatic arthritis, a type of arthritis that affects the skin and joints, shares some symptoms with neuropathic itch, making it crucial to consult a medical professional for accurate diagnosis.
- Sclerosis, a condition characterized by hardening of the skin or other tissues, can be a reaction to constant scratching caused by neuropathic itch, exacerbating the overall health-and-wellness issue.
- AQ (Arachnoiditis Quotient), a measure used to quantify spinal nerve damage, can help predict the severity of neuropathic itch and aid in treatment planning.
- Depression is a common mental-health condition that can coexist with neuropathic itch, complicating treatment and requiringconsideration of antidepressant medications as part of the medical-conditions management plan.
- Some experimental treatments for neuropathic itch involve using anesthetics like multiple types of Botox to block nerve signals responsible for itch sensations.
- Research into the role of immune system dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammation in the development of neuropathic itch may lead to new approaches for managing this health-and-wellness problem and reducing its impact on individuals' quality of life.
