cover of episode Why Do We Itch?

Why Do We Itch?

2024/11/12
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Fresh Air

Chapters

Annie Lowry describes the debilitating nature of chronic itch, comparing it to poison ivy and discussing how it affects her daily life and mental state.
  • Chronic itch is described as maddening and all-encompassing.
  • It can be so intense that it feels like drowning or being trapped inside one's own body.
  • The itch is not relieved by common medications like antihistamines or steroids.

Shownotes Transcript

We've all had bug bites, or dry scalp, or a sunburn that causes itch. But what if you felt itchy all the time — and there was no relief?* Atlantic* journalist Annie Lowrey suffers from primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), a degenerative liver disease in which the body mistakenly attacks cells lining the bile ducts, causing them to inflame. The result is a severe itch that doesn't respond to antihistamines or steroids. She talks with Terry Gross about finding a diagnosis, treatment, and what scientists know about itch.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices)NPR Privacy Policy)