What Causes Itching On The Chest, Armpit And Abdomen?

Posted on Sat, 29 Oct 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 29 Oct 2016 Answered on

Thu, 17 Nov 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Very itchy across my chest, under arms, and abdomen. Even the lightest touch increases the pain, though that same touch seems to be paradoxical mixture of soothing comfort of scratching and itch and pain of touching a wound (or something like that). No redness (unless I really go to town with the scratching)

Episodes last from a few hours to a few days, and occur repeatedly in the cold months. I live 7,500 feet above sea level in XXXXXXX

I'm 71 years old, male This started the end of last winter, was absent all summer, and now has returned this autumn.

Answered by Dr. Suresh Heijebu (11 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Possible allodynia due to post herpetic neuralgia

Detailed Answer:
Hello, Sir

I can certainly understand your concern.

As per your symptoms, the possibility of allodynia is high.

This might suggest decreased pain threshold .

Post herpetic neuralgia or shingles can be a possible cause.

I generally prescribe oral pills of Gabapentin and Valacylovir for 2 weeks for adequate control of your symptoms.

Please check with your physician if he shares my view and if can prescribe these pills to you.

Post your further queries if any.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee