Intense itching after remission is something other MyLymphomaTeam members have definitely experienced and talked about. One member shared that sleepless nights filled with itchy skin were among the worst parts of their experience.
Itching with lymphoma happens when the immune system releases chemicals in response to Show Full Answer
Intense itching after remission is something other MyLymphomaTeam members have definitely experienced and talked about. One member shared that sleepless nights filled with itchy skin were among the worst parts of their experience.
Itching with lymphoma happens when the immune system releases chemicals in response to lymphoma cells — and these chemicals can irritate the nerves in your skin. It can also get worse at night or when it's warm. Since this is happening during remission, it's really important to contact your oncology team as soon as possible. Intense itching can sometimes be a sign of relapse, and catching any changes early makes a big difference.
Some things to watch for alongside the itching that could signal a relapse include:
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fever or chills
- Fatigue
In the meantime, a few things that may help ease the itching are:
- Applying a cool compress
- Using fragrance-free soap and moisturizer
- Taking an oatmeal bath
- Wearing soft, loose-fitting clothing
- Avoiding scratching (easier said than done, we know!)
If bumps or lesions are appearing alongside the itching, mention that specifically to your doctor, as that can sometimes point to a skin-related condition associated with lymphoma.
September 1