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What Causes A Burning And Crawling Sensation After Cholecystectomy?

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Posted on Wed, 21 Jan 2015
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?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Noble Zachariah (2 hours later)
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.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Noble Zachariah (1 hour later)
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
doctor
Answered by Dr. Noble Zachariah (3 hours later)
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.
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
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Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Noble Zachariah

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :1974

Answered : 2319 Questions

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What Causes A Burning And Crawling Sensation After Cholecystectomy?

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.