Many millions of dollars are spent for lotions, ointments, and other over-the-counter preparations to relieve a mysterious itching that typically occurs from the middle of the back upward to the back of the neck. Sometimes the itch is more localized to just one side.
There are generally no bumps or rashes that usually accompany itching. Often, the skin in the affected area is sensitive to touch or has a mild burning sensation, and the skin may have a darker pigmentation that the surrounding area.
Moisturizers and lotions may seem to offer temporary relief or may not help at all. Whatever the case, the worst symptom is being awakened from a sound sleep with no relief but waiting for the itching to stop.
Loss of sleep from this condition may interfere with the quality of one’s life due to decreased alertness and fatigue from sleep loss. Scratching only makes it worse.
The Itching may be Due to Notalgia Paresthetica
Notalgia paresthetica causes itching most often on the upper back, often in a place that is difficult to reach. The itching may come randomly and be unpredictable, although it is often temperature-related bothering victims only during warm weather. The itching often seems worse at night because the brain operates differently during sleep, and sensations of pain and itching seem worse.
Symptoms of notalgia paresthetica may seem to respond to the application of lotions briefly, but the relief may be due to the cooling effect of the lotion rather than specific ingredients. An ice pack kept by the bed in a cooler can be placed on the affected spot for a few minutes and bring relief for hours.
Common itching is a common symptom of dermatitis, pruritus, or eczema. Typically these refer to skin conditions with visible rashes or sores. The skin is subject to numerous diseases and conditions from mild to serious. Most skin conditions are unknown to the general public.
Notalgia paresthetica is not considered a typical skin disorder, nor is it an allergy. It seems to be related to nerve pathology. There is some evidence that the condition is related to nerves compressed by vertebrae or muscles, although the exact cause is not known. Since the origin seems to be neurological, lotions and cortisone creams often used for relief from skin conditions are ineffective and may even make it worse.
Treatment for Notalgia Paresthetica is Available
Some antihistamines are effective. These are best used at bedtime, as drowsiness is a common side effect. A number of drugs not normally used for itching have been found effective for individual cases. Benadryl has been used successfully, but can cause the drowsiness and may last only a few hours.
Splashing cool water on the affected area may bring surprising quick and effective relief as long as the method is practical. Rubbing an ice cube over the itch may last longer. The patient may find some relief by bathing in water that is as cool as one can tolerate.
Scratching may only increase the misery by creating sores which can become infected. Scratching rarely relieves the itch anyway. Sometimes a gentle massaging is somewhat helpful, but only temporarily.
Sufferers Should Seek the advice of a Dermatologist
A dermatologist can typically diagnose notalgia paresthetica. Several treatments can bring significant relief, although the condition sometimes goes into remission without treatment.
There is no single treatment for notalgia paresthetica and treatment may need to be individualized by trying different medications and lifestyle adjustments. Numerous drugs have been tried with varying degrees of success.
Age seems to be a predisposing factor, as it is more common after age 40. Gender or race do not seem to be involved, but some psychological dynamics — i.e., depression — may contribute. Other neurological conditions present similar symptoms, but are less frequent.
Those who suspect that they have notalgia paresthetica should seek the advice of a dermatologist. With some good advice and understanding of what works and what makes it worse one’s quality of life can be restored. Knowing that the condition may resolve itself eventually is a comfort.
Sources
- “Notalgia Paresthetica: Successful Treatment with Exercises.” medicaljournals.se. “Accessed: June 21, 2011”
- “What is Your Diagnosis?”ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Accessed: June 22, 201.
Harvey Craft - I am a retired educator with diverse experience. I read anything science, education, and history. I write to share what I learn.
