Brachioradial Pruritus Symptoms
Itching is the classic symptom of brachioradial pruritis.
It specifically affects the outer side of the forearm or, sometimes, both forearms.
If you scratch the itchy part of your arm, you may not actually get any relief.
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In fact, the area may feel even itchier.
The scratching that causes more itching is called the itch-scratch cycle.
Pain may come along with the itching because the same nerves send itching andpain signalsto the brain.
However, nerve damage andsun exposureare the two main causes that have been considered.
It’s possible that both are involved.
Brachioradial pruitus is not contagious.
Nerve Damage
One theory is that brachioradial pruritus can happen to people with degenerative spine diseases.
These conditions happen when part of the structure of the spine breaks down.
The changes in the spine’s stability can place pressure on nearby nerves that connect to the arms.
Another example iscervical spondylosis.
With this condition, the nerves that exit the spinal cord at the neck are compressed and damaged.
The nerve damage from these conditions may lead to symptoms of brachioradial pruritus.
Sun Exposure
It’s also been considered that sunlight might play a role in brachioradial pruritus.
Chronic exposure toultraviolet(UV) radiation can damage the nerve fibers in the skin.
Once they’re damaged, the nerves can be more sensitive to the pain and itching from brachioradial pruritus.
It’s thought that this could be what actually triggers the symptoms in people with cervical spine disease.
Who Gets Brachioradial Pruritus?
They can identify the condition based on your symptoms and where on your body you have itching.
Your provider will need to first rule out other possible causes of your itching.
Unfortunately, it’s harder to diagnose itchy skin when there is no rash.
A diagnosis of brachioradial pruritus might be considered if anti-itch medications have not helped with your symptoms.
Heat also does not help brachioradial pruritus symptoms.
Quite a few other treatments have been tried for brachioradial pruritus.
Some people also report they find relief throughacupunctureor cervical spine treatment provided by a chiropractor.
It causes itching of the skin over the outside of the forearm that is not relieved by scratching.
Frequently Asked Questions
The itching from brachioradial pruritus can disrupt your sleep.
Using ice packs at night can help relieve the symptoms.
Try applying ice packs to help relieve the symptoms.
If ice works for you, another strategy might be using acooling cream with mentholto ease the itching.
If you have itching that does not go away or is getting worse, talk to your healthcare provider.
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