Itching and Advanced Liver Disease/Anyone without advanced liver disease?

[sophiaS1980]

I keep reading itching is one of the signs of advanced liver disease, how is that possible when people with just a fatty liver with mild fibrosis have itching and some without fibrosis have itching. Anyone with itching without advanced liver disease?

[4pjx__]

There are quite a few people with PBC that have earlier stages of liver disease and do itch. I was diagnosed with PBC at a late stage (cirrhosis) but didn't itch. Nothing sent me to the doctor which is probably why I was diagnosed late. I just plain didn't go to the doctor unless I was really sick. To be honest I did have a few episodes of itching but it only lasted a day or 2. My episodes come more frequently now. But I usually get some time off in between. Anyone with liver disease can get an itch at any stage I think. --Pam

[briccolone]

Hi there you can get itching with fatty liver... I've had it many times

[RedLioness]

I had a liver transplant 2 years ago, but I still get itching at times because I take tacrolimus as an immune suppressant (brand name Prograf, at least in the U.S.). Certain liver meds (and other meds) cause itching; check the drug info for possible side effects.

Right now I am experiencing a lot of itching because my ALT/AST levels have gone up, which they can occasionally do from time to time, even post-transplant, sometimes for no obvious reason (I just had a clear ultrasound, bilirubin is not elevated, haven't had a drink in over 4 years). But I told my nurse-coordinator and they had me come in for more advanced tests, and adjusted my meds. I still itch, but at least now I'm not scaring myself.

Also keep in mind that we are in winter, at least in the northern hemisphere, and many people get itchy dry skin at this time of year (or itching already there gets worse).

Do you know your ALT/AST (liver enzyme) levels? If not, a simple blood test can help you and your healthcare provider know what your situation is, and if that is causing your itching. The more you know, the more good choices you can make.

Cheers,

Carrie