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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Itching In The Upper Arms?

I had Lyme disease 51/2 (2011) years ago and was told I had a co-infection which caused sores to appear mostly on my upper arms. They were extremely itchy, a burning itch especially at night. They would keep me awake. The only way to relieve the extreme itch was to apply ice packs. I still have 3 - 4 sores remaining even though I had applied various ointments with bandaids, took salt baths, swam in the ocean, etc. I also got the shingles on my left side 2 years into the Lyme (October, 2013), the pain from which lasted about 3 months. I had pelvic surgery 2 years ago(2015), after which (next day) the sores came back to the point where they were oozing. Within a month, I got shingles again, this time in my groin. Since that time, I have not been able to get rid of the sharp burning pain associated with the shingles. I am on Lyrica and Valtrex to try to keep flare-ups at bay. The burning itch on my arms has abated, and for about the past year, I have started feeling what I can only describe as creepy crawly feelings in/under my skin which I notice mostly at night. There have been nights that this feeling and accompanying restlessness has kept me awake all night. My doctor increased the Lyrica from 75 mg to 100 mg thinking this has something to do with hyperactive nerve endings. Although I am very tired - as tired when I awake as when I went to bed, I remain as active as I possibly can. I do yoga, garden, walking, and swimming, plus projects in and around my home. My sister sent me an article from the Mayo clinic about Morgellons disease which seems to describe my symptoms. I do not believe I am obsessively concerned about my health, I do not believe I am psychotic in any way, I do my best to try to forget how I am feeling and stay busy and active. My doctor told me to wait for the new shingles vaccine which should be coming out soon. I am looking for answers. How can I get relief??
Wed, 12 Sep 2018
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General Surgeon 's  Response
Hi,

The skin eruptions in many instances are mediated by auto immune response, in which the interferon therapy with various molecules are providing best results and you should discuss the same with your doctor.
Continue rest of the life style modifications and avoid stress.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel, General Surgeon
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What Causes Itching In The Upper Arms?

Hi, The skin eruptions in many instances are mediated by auto immune response, in which the interferon therapy with various molecules are providing best results and you should discuss the same with your doctor. Continue rest of the life style modifications and avoid stress. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel, General Surgeon