Sunshine

[Normski1]

Benefits or drawbacks of having Photo therapy treatment for itch related to Polycythemia Vera

[havashan]

I have used UVB phototherapy to treat psoriasis. It is considered a safe treatment done under the care of a dermatologist. It is carefully calibrated and increased in small increments. It is also a treatment that helps some people reduce itching. I tried it for itching and it did not help me but I may not have used it long enough as I found that Beta Alanine has helped with the stinging, burning I experience after contact with water. My hematologist has told me that Jakafi is very effective in reducing the itch and that if all else failed she would give that to me.

[ritaandscooter1]

I spend the winters in Arizona and it is amazing how little itch I have here compared to Alaska!! I virtually have no itch when I arrive to the land of sunshine......There is a lot of UV benefits for us MPN people as long as your wearing sunscreen. I wear a full SPF suncreen shirt, hat and sunscreen on other parts of the body when golfing. Mentally a lot happier as well in this climate........probably due to less itching and can swim outdoors! Win Win! Take care. Kerry

[Chicagopv]

The down side is the time it takes. I had it 2-3 times a week for a few years, then once I started Jakafi, I didn't need to do it any more. But I needed to take Vitamin D then.

[TwinMom88 in reply to Chicagopv]

Do you mind if I ask at what dose of Jakafi worked for you? And when the itch relief kicked in?

[Chicagopv]

I’m taking 5 mg once or twice a day. In warm weather I might have to add a 25mg Atarax. Itch relief I think was really quick. I don’t remember.