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What Causes Itching Throughout The Body After Back Surgery?
I just had back surgery a week ago. I was allergic to the tape from the dressing and i think the steri-strips caused some breaking out also. But now I am itching really bad all over. My cheeks, around my nose, and chin is really red, warm to touch, bumpy, and very itchy. Can you give me some ideas of what maybe going on? I have taken Benadryl and used Benadryl cream. It's not helping.
posted on
Thu, 5 Jan 2017
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Tue, 10 Jan 2017
Answered on
Wed, 11 Jan 2017
Last reviewed on
Hi,
Post-operative all over itching is a matter of concern. But you should not worry as It is a sign of healing and will diminish on its own gradually. Post-operative itching of incisions is absolutely normal. It is caused by the chemical histamine, which is present in healing wounds. Some antibiotics cause itching if a patient is sensitive. In these cases, changing antibiotics usually takes care of the problem. It is usually a reaction to a post operative medication.
Narcotics also cause histamine release and often an antihistamine helps or changing medication can help with the advise of your doctor. Benadryl is great at bed time because it also has some sedation qualities. Don't scratch the area. Just mildly rub with soft cloth pad or ice to soothe. washing with Menthol mixed water for immediate relief. Lemon juice with a glass of water every 2 hours gives resistance from any further complications.
Hope this helps solve your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Suchda
Consultant, Alternative Therapies
Post-operative all over itching is a matter of concern. But you should not worry as It is a sign of healing and will diminish on its own gradually. Post-operative itching of incisions is absolutely normal. It is caused by the chemical histamine, which is present in healing wounds. Some antibiotics cause itching if a patient is sensitive. In these cases, changing antibiotics usually takes care of the problem. It is usually a reaction to a post operative medication.
Narcotics also cause histamine release and often an antihistamine helps or changing medication can help with the advise of your doctor. Benadryl is great at bed time because it also has some sedation qualities. Don't scratch the area. Just mildly rub with soft cloth pad or ice to soothe. washing with Menthol mixed water for immediate relief. Lemon juice with a glass of water every 2 hours gives resistance from any further complications.
Hope this helps solve your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Suchda
Consultant, Alternative Therapies
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