Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyFibroTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Council Bluffs, IA

What are you all doing for the itching or crawling sensations? I'm on Zyrtec and tried to ween off because of the drowsiness but it just amplifies the itch.

April 1
 · 
Reactions
MyFibroTeam

What helps with itching and crawling sensations in fibromyalgia?

The itching you're experiencing is actually quite common—about 60 percent of people with fibromyalgia deal with chronic itch. It's thought to be related to how the central nervous system processes signals, making your nerves overreact to sensations.

Since you're Show Full Answer

What helps with itching and crawling sensations in fibromyalgia?

The itching you're experiencing is actually quite common—about 60 percent of people with fibromyalgia deal with chronic itch. It's thought to be related to how the central nervous system processes signals, making your nerves overreact to sensations.

Since you're finding Zyrtec helpful but struggling with drowsiness, here are some alternatives others have found useful:

Over-the-counter options:
* Cooling lotions with menthol or aloe vera
* Aloe vera with lidocaine (found in sunburn relief sections)
* Calamine lotion
* Fragrance-free moisturizers to combat dry skin
* Ice packs for quick relief
* Mild hydrocortisone cream for inflamed areas

Prescription medications that may help:
* Gabapentin (Neurontin) or pregabalin (Lyrica)—these calm overactive nerves and have helped some members significantly
* Certain antidepressants (though results vary)

A MyFibroTeam member shared: "I believe my itching was a nerve response. Since I've been on Neurontin (gabapentin), it has been much, much better."

Home remedies:
* Lukewarm baths with oatmeal
* Gentle, fragrance-free soaps
* Soft, breathable cotton clothing
* Keeping nails short to prevent skin damage

Since the itching often doesn't respond well to standard antihistamines alone, talking with your doctor about nerve-calming medications might be worth exploring.

April 1

Related Questions

View All
A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Loughborough, UK

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Cortland, NY

Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data and Privacy policies.
Already a member? Log In