Neuropathic itching or the “MS Itch” is one of the lesser known symptoms of MS or, more accurately, lesser spoken about as it isn’t considered one of the more debilitating symptoms. But Jesus Christ on a motorbike is it fucking annoying!!

Unlike “normal” itchiness caused by a bite or sting or an allergy, neuropathic itching is caused by a misfire in the nervous system, much like pins and needles or tingly sensations. Also unlike “normal” itchiness scratching does not make it go away, in fact it’s not uncommon for MSers to scratch themselves until they bleed simply because the itch won’t stop. It is common for it to occur in “matching“ places on the body, for example the same spot on each arm and to happen upwards of 5 to 6 times a day.

This is not just a general lesson in MS symptoms, I’m telling you all of this as a precursor to explaining to you my MS itch… which embarrassingly occurs in my groin 🤦🏻‍♀️ it’s as intense as it is short-lived and I absolutely CANNOT scratch it. Not least because I would look like I’m scratching my flea-infested nether regions but because to scratch it folds me up like a pretzel due to the neuropathic pathways that are causing it. It’s almost painful. So I have to be ultra careful, just adjusting ones knickers can set it off and I don’t want people thinking I’ve got a bad case of fucking crabs!! Oh the shame 😳

There’s not much can be done about neuropathic itching, recommendations are a cold compress, NOT scratching and a specific type of antihistamine. As it’s not a skin complaint, topical applications are useless. Just another joyous part of MS that has graced my life although as I said at the beginning it’s not a biggie and doesn’t affect my life all that much… so long as my pants don’t ride up and need adjusting!!