Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes A Burning And Crawling Sensation After Cholecystectomy?
Question: Hi there
I had a cholecystectomy 3 weeks ago and was taking a double course of antibiotics for a root canal treatment at the same time.
In the last few days I have developed a really intense itch, all over but worst of all on my palms.
I have no rash, hives or anything else visible but I have a burning, crawling sensation with the itch and it's driving me crazy.
I am a long way from home so I can't contact my own doctor easily. Any ideas?
I had a cholecystectomy 3 weeks ago and was taking a double course of antibiotics for a root canal treatment at the same time.
In the last few days I have developed a really intense itch, all over but worst of all on my palms.
I have no rash, hives or anything else visible but I have a burning, crawling sensation with the itch and it's driving me crazy.
I am a long way from home so I can't contact my own doctor easily. Any ideas?
Brief Answer:
Two possibilities considered
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome to HCM and thanks for your query.
There are two possible reasons for the itching.
One is that you had an exposure to a substance you are allergic to. It may not be the antibiotic as you did not have any itch at the time you were on it. The allergen may be a food item, a cosmetic or lotion, a dress or anything under the sun.
The second possibility is an obstruction to the biliary tract.
Two possibilities considered
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome to HCM and thanks for your query.
There are two possible reasons for the itching.
One is that you had an exposure to a substance you are allergic to. It may not be the antibiotic as you did not have any itch at the time you were on it. The allergen may be a food item, a cosmetic or lotion, a dress or anything under the sun.
The second possibility is an obstruction to the biliary tract.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Yogesh D
I think it's more likely to be the second thing but I don't know what to do about it. Can I take something ? I can't see my doctor as I am far from home. Is there any over the counter medecine that would help? I tried taking zirtec but it had no effect. Thank you, XXXXXXX
Brief Answer:
Please confirm with liver function test.
Detailed Answer:
Please get a liver function test done. Any lab should be able to do that. If the itching is due to biliary obstruction, GGT and alkaline phosphatase will be elevated. Ursodeoxycholic acid will help in relieving the itching, if the itching is due to biliary obstruction.
Meanwhile you can apply lactocalamine lotion. It will relieve you from itching.
Please confirm with liver function test.
Detailed Answer:
Please get a liver function test done. Any lab should be able to do that. If the itching is due to biliary obstruction, GGT and alkaline phosphatase will be elevated. Ursodeoxycholic acid will help in relieving the itching, if the itching is due to biliary obstruction.
Meanwhile you can apply lactocalamine lotion. It will relieve you from itching.
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Ashwin Bhandari
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
