What Helps Me With the PBC Itch

Managing the PBC itch was a challenge at first for me, because this symptom was present prior to me being diagnosed. During that timeframe, it was difficult to manage and find relief for it. I was not sure what was the root cause of the itching.

The itching caused me a loss of sleep in the evening. Then the fatigue was very difficult to deal with during the day when I needed to work a full-time job and care for my family.

Searching for relief before my diagnosis

Prior to my diagnosis, one of the methods I used to help with itching was to take Benadryl in the evening when the itching affected me the most. But the effect of this medication was short-lived, and the itching returned after a couple of hours of taking it.

This form of medication helped relieve some of the itching. However, because I was not aware of my PBC diagnosis at the time, this was simply the initial method I used to deal with the itch.

Finding the right treatment plan for the itch

Once I received my diagnosis, Ursodiol was given to start my treatment for PBC. This helped improve the itching, but it was not gone.

I had to discuss with my primary care physician other options available to treat the itching. Something that worked well for me was starting to use Sertraline. Sertraline is a type of medication that is used to treat depression and anxiety. But it can also potentially help reduce itching.

I noticed a change, and the itching was less severe once I added this medication. At the time I was diagnosed with PBC, I was also dealing with depression and anxiety as well.

Incorporating lifestyle changes for daily relief

Once the medications were added to treat me, I felt relief from the exasperating itch that took place at night. I no longer felt the need to scratch constantly at night. My sleep was no longer affected, and I was able to feel more rested in the mornings.

Other things that also helped me were making sure to make changes in the soaps and lotions that I used. I strive to use products that contain more natural ingredients. I make changes accordingly by using fragrance-free soaps and lotions, especially those for the body and face.

Reclaiming my quality of life

Making these changes along with the medications helped me significantly to improve the itching. This in turn helped me save my skin from being dried, cracked, and having scratch marks. Also, cool showers provided me with relief from the itching. Especially for my scalp and face, which was very annoying.

Being able to manage the itch has improved my quality of life, and I am grateful for that. I am better able to manage my days when I rest and do not have to deal with the itching.

I am grateful for what I was able to do, and I continue to implement these things to help keep the itch far away. With the itch gone, my sleep has improved, and I am better able to manage fatigue as well, which is a beautiful thing.