That Dreaded Itch

The person who invents a cure for the itch of liver disease is set to make a fortune! Unfortunately, we can only struggle on, so here are a few hints:

• Always keep your nails cut short to avoid scratching your skin.
• Avoid very hot baths, or being over-heated in bed.
• Do not wear nylon, or wool, next to your skin - cotton is best.
• In the summer, the ultra-violet rays in the sun can help, but please remember to take the usual precautions when out in the sun, to avoid burning.
• Why not try a teacup full of bicarbonate of soda in a cool bath. Soak up to the neck for approximately twenty minutes. It is particularly helpful to do this just before going to bed. If your scalp is itchy, rinse your hair in water containing bicarbonate of soda after washing it. If the soles of your feet are itchy, soak them in a basin of water with bicarbonate of soda.
• If you take Questran sachets, please make sure you drink it before or during your meal and not after the meal. Take the Questran before breakfast, lunch and tea. It's a waste of time to take it at bedtime when you are not eating. If you do not like the taste, try adding squash.
• Do not use perfumed soap, bath essence, shower gel, or talcum powder.
• Finally, please always tell your doctor about your itch. He may have a prescription to suggest, that you haven't tried before. We need to know how you are coping mentally with the itch, and please tell us if it's driving you mad.

Remember, for those of you who do not have any itch, it does not mean it will happen in the future. Some patients never itch!