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Real members of myMPNteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

What can be done to help ease the itching of the skin by a PV-patient? Are there alternative medicine or treatments available?

A myMPNteam Member asked a question 💭
August 11
 · 
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A myMPNteam Member

When I started taking Hydroxyurea, (for Polycythemia Jak 2), I began to feel unwell day and night. The dreaded Itch was all over my body and scalp and nothing helped. I covered myself with Aqueous and menthol cream…still no relief. Asked the Haematologist to let me have Jakavi and explained why.. and was refused. So when it all became unbearable I just stopped taking Hydroxyurea. I really didn’t care if I died.
The haematologist was angry..but gave me a script for Jakavi and for me, the relief was amazing. That was several years ago… and I found out that I “was entitled to have Jakavi if Hydroxyurea was unsuitable “. Be brave, stand up for what is best for “YOU” … NOT what the
is “easiest” for your haematologist. It is really difficult at first.. but when you discover everything you can about your own illness, you become much less confused and afraid and it’s so much easier to advocate for yourself, when you need to.
I really hope this helps you.
Marianne2.

August 12
myMPNteam

Itchy skin is one of the most frustrating symptoms of PV — you're definitely not alone in dealing with it! There are several approaches that may help, ranging from lifestyle changes to medical treatments.

Here are some lifestyle and home remedies that myMPNteam members and doctors have found helpful:

- Applying chilled Show Full Answer

Itchy skin is one of the most frustrating symptoms of PV — you're definitely not alone in dealing with it! There are several approaches that may help, ranging from lifestyle changes to medical treatments.

Here are some lifestyle and home remedies that myMPNteam members and doctors have found helpful:

- Applying chilled moisturizer or emollients to the skin
- Minimizing exposure to water (using baby wipes or a bidet instead of full baths/showers)
- Staying hydrated
- Regular exercise
- Getting some sunshine On the medical treatment side, there are a few options worth discussing with a doctor:

- Over-the-counter antihistamines like Claritin, Zyrtec, or Allegra can provide relief
- Hydroxyurea can help by lowering abnormal blood counts
- Jakafi (Ruxolitinib) has been shown to successfully manage itching for many people, though it's typically considered after other options have been tried As for alternative or complementary approaches, some myMPNteam members have reported benefits from dietary changes and supplements like turmeric/curcumin, ginger, cinnamon, and garlic. One myMPNteam member noted improved circulation and reduced symptoms after cutting out animal products and adding these spices to their diet.

However, it's important to note that supplements are not FDA-approved for PV and lack clinical trial evidence for safety or effectiveness. Always check with a doctor before adding any supplement, as some can interact with treatments or encourage unwanted red blood cell production.

August 11

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