What I find helps my itch…

[FarahS]

Hi there,

In case this helps anybody else, as the only (annoying) symptom I get on a daily basis is the itch, is antihistamines. In particular I take benedryl alergy relief ‘Acrivastine’. I take this daily and it eases the itch tremendously- long may it last 🙏🏻

I have asked my GP as well as a consultant and they said it was ok.

Please do consult with your own medics though - the leaflet says not to be taken if you’re over 65, or if you have kidney issues. It’s all there in the leaflet.

Anyway just thought I’d share in case it might help someone.

Stay well everyone!

[zinchunter]

I agree. I've been on fexofenadine180mg/d for a number of years and it seems to help a lot. William

[FarahS in reply to zinchunter]

Hi William,

Do you mind if I ask, if you’ve found that you needed to increase your antihistamines dose through the years? That is my fear at the moment (probably just being silly) as it’s what impacts me daily.

Thanks

Farah.

[billhunter in reply to FarahS]

Farah, I've been taking for about 10 years and have stuck at 180. GP says OK long term. But >65 yup- 79. It also says don't take if kidney or liver problem. Liver? yup. If you look hard enough, you shouldn't take anything for anything! All a bit stupid but it is a good reminder to keep trying to reduce any prescription drug. Stay lucky and don't stay suffering if there is something that may help and looks reasonable. Best, William

[FarahS in reply to billhunter]

Thanks bill hunter for sharing. And I totally agree I’m trying to minimise my meds as I know I’m in this for the long haul..so sometimes I try to stretch it out by taking my antihistamine only once every 2 days, where in between I manage the itch with creams that contain menthol or eucalyptus oil. Believe it or not Vicks vapour rub often keeps my pruritus from spreading as it keeps my skin cool 🤣🙌

Anywho, all the best and stay safe! 🙏🏻

[Rebekahw74]

That makes so much sense. My itch went away when I got rid of the fat around my liver, started fasting to give my liver a break, and also started a low histamine diet. On a vain side, I noticed when I take Benadryl my cellulite goes away. I’m assuming in my case it’s actually caused by inflammation and fluid retention.

[FarahS in reply to Rebekahw74]

hi Rebekahw74,

That’s so interesting as I too have lost some weight (1 stone), have really changed my diet to be more ‘PBC friendly’ and I have seen a huge difference in the itch! I know everyone is different so I’m just grateful I’ve found something that works for me….

Just as fyi I also recently found out that beetroot (boiled or steamed not pickled) is a fantastic natural bile acid binder. This article was very interesting. There is also a link to a good video explaining the other veg that’s good…I’ll leave it here in case you or anyone else may find it useful

nutritionfacts.org/2016/01/...

[Rebekahw74]

thank you!!!! I will check that out. I drink bootroot powder for circulation issues I have, it would be awesome if it helps with PBC also!

[Stub007]

I take Hydroxyzine for the itching.