For me, neuropathic itching has been a strange symptom of MS

One of my more unusual symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) is itching that is unrelated to skin irritation. It occurs randomly, maybe once or twice a month, and lasts about 30-60 minutes. I have only experienced this symptom in my upper extremities, such as on a finger, thumb, or the underside of my wrist, and it always happens on just one side. Also interesting is that scratching does not help to lessen the sensation.

The first time I experienced the itching, I didn’t know it was related to my MS. I assumed I had come into contact with something I was allergic to or had been bitten or stung by an insect. After applying an anti-itch cream to the affected area, the itching resolved, so I assumed the medication worked.

When it happened again, I thought it was really odd, as the skin in the affected area looked perfectly normal and intact. It wasn’t red, swollen, or hot to the touch, and there were no bumps or rash. At this point, I thought it might be due to my MS, and after a quick internet search, I found out that itching can indeed be a symptom of the condition.

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Neuropathic symptoms of MS

Itching, also known as pruritus, is usually caused by direct skin irritation. But some people with MS may experience neuropathic itching caused by nerve damage in the brain and spinal cord. This means the itchiness originates from misfiring nerves rather than an external irritant.

In MS, episodes of neuropathic itching tend to come on abruptly and can last for seconds or minutes at a time. The sensation can occur anywhere on the body, and it may affect both sides of the body symmetrically or be limited to one specific area. It may be accompanied by other abnormal nerve sensations, such as burning, tingling, or a “pins and needles” feeling. MS itching is usually not associated with a rash, although excessive scratching can cause skin redness. Heat can also trigger or worsen the itching.

My experiences with MS-related itching are infrequent, mild, and of short duration. I haven’t noticed that it worsens when I am out in the heat, and it doesn’t occur in combination with other abnormal sensations for me. If the itching is more severe, it can interfere with quality of life and sleep. I don’t plan to seek help at this time, given my mild severity, but if it worsens, I plan to discuss it with an MS healthcare specialist.

Originally, I thought the anti-itch cream had worked, but in hindsight, I think the itching had just run its course and resolved on its own. Because neuropathic itching is not caused by a skin irritant, topical creams and scratching generally do not provide relief and may make it worse. If the symptom is triggered by heat exposure, cooling down or using cool compresses may help. Medications may be needed for more severe cases. Some treatments used to relieve other neuropathic sensations or pain can also help with this type of itching.

Living with MS means dealing with a variety of unexpected symptoms, and for me, itching has been one of the stranger ones. Even though my symptoms are mild and manageable, it’s reassuring to me that there are strategies and treatments available if the itching ever gets worse.

Note: Multiple Sclerosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Multiple Sclerosis News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to multiple sclerosis.