Itchy Skin

Updated on September 29, 2006
K.B. asks from Shorewood, IL
40 answers

Hi!

I feel as if I have hit a brick wall and sometimes feel as if I am nuts.

I have been going around and around with our pediatricians regarding my 1 year old. She has been itching her skin in various places on her body since she could itch. I have been to 2 dermatologists and 2 allergists.
I originally took her to my dermatologist she could not find any skin conditions that would cause her to itch. Dr. said she doesn't have psoriasis or eczema. She took a whole bunch of blood work as well, and seemed concerned about her liver enzymes being somewhat high, and possibly her kidney enzymes. She did not specialize in pediatrics but, suggested that if my pediatricians were not looking into it to get a 2nd opinion. My pediatricians didn't seem too concerned but took another round of the same blood tests and the levels were the same so she just is assuming that her levels are just normally high. My derm gave me hydroxizine to help calm her at night for the itching, which helps some.

They have told me which I was already doing washing her clothes prior to wearing. Only using clear and free soaps-no fabric softner. Washing her body with just water as quickly as possible in luke warm water and getting her out right away, using vasiline. Then switching to Eucerin creams Cetephil and so on... They even provided a steroid cream. Nothing has worked.

The allergist took a bunch of scratch tests and blood tests to see if there were any things she could be allergic to. Everything has come back negative.

We have had a couple episodes of what I consider asthma and have all the treatments for asthma she was hospitalized once. The doctors will not call it that because she has to be hospitalized more than twice before they will diagnose her with that. She itches her body until it bleeds and they cannot give me any reason or skin condition as to why this happens. Another thing I have noticed is she seems off balance. She has been walking since she was 12 months and is now 15 months I understand that her coordination and sense of balance is still developing but, it seems like it could be something other than that. I am just concerned that there is something deeper that they are not looking for.

She is a good eater, normal weight, excessive drinking of fluids, heavy diapers due to the drinking. I just do not know where to go from here. Sometimes I think I am making a bigger deal than it should be but, I need to know for sure that everything is okay with her and help her with this itching.

Thanks for any help!

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So What Happened?

First of all I would like to THANK YOU all for your caring responses! It's really a good feeling to know there are many people out there who care! I spoke with my pediatrician's and they continue to tell me her skin looks just fine and is very well hydrated. DUH! I have been doing my best to keep her from itching. I did notice when I take her off of the Hydroxizine she itches worse. They gave me a name of the supposed top pediatric doctor who sees all rear cases in children (who had nothing to see except her skin looks fine) and he didn't think her liver enzymes were a problem.
But, as I told my husband I am just not satisfied with their answers and have an appointment with Mayo Clinic. I sure hope they will be able to help us.
Thanks again to everyone!!! I appreciate all your support!!!
Have a great evening and week!
Best regards,

K.

Featured Answers

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H.D.

answers from San Francisco on

It may be a case that he is sensitive to what you wash with. My ex-husband had the same issue. My dad is a chemist and suggested a BIG change in all soaps. You may want to give these a try....
Suave shampoo, no heavy scents, the balsam works well.
Dove soap, unscented or original, bar is the best.
LIQUID clothes detergents because they was out of the clothes faster, Arm and Hammer, not the fancy scents, plain. NO DRYER SHEETS! What makes the clothes smell good is coated onto the material and then rubs off on the skin.
Jergens hand cream, original scent.
Palmolive, original, for dishwash.
I hope that helps, I know what it is to see someone itch, itch ITCH! =) Email me if you have any ____@____.com

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C.E.

answers from Chicago on

Hi K., my son is going through the same thing with the itchy skin problem. He has gone to the doctor several times and they tell me that it's just dry skin. But he scratches his skin all the time!! It's mainly just his legs, so I too have tried all the different creams and lotions and vaseline, etc. But nothing will make the itching go away. I too have just given up because I don't know what else to do!!! Maybe someone out there can help us both

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M.

answers from Chicago on

My daughter went through something similiar and the only thing that worked was prescription strength hydrocortisone cream. The OTC stuff is like 1% hydrocortisone and the prescription stuff is 2% and the relieved the itching and made it go away temerarily. You might want to ask you Ped. for some, since it is not a antibiotic, it should not be a problem and if he will not give you a presecription, try regular hydrocortisone cream, like gold bond, it might help.
M.

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A.S.

answers from Chicago on

K.,
You are NOT making a big deal out of this. Call Dr. Gary Oberg! He is a pediatrician and an allergist. He treats all kinds of problems and does not believe in scratch tests for accuracy. He tests another way. I promise he can take care of your little girl. We go out there because he does the work of 3 or 4 doctors. He is in Crystal Lake. ###-###-####.
Also, read "Is This Your Child?" by Dr. Doris Rapp. She is a mentor to Dr. Oberg and this book is considered the Bible of allergy treatment. He will probably treat with allergy serum and probiotics. As well as any (safe) drugs necessary. I bet he'd also say to cut out wheat, sugar and dairy from her diet.
I know it's bad now, but your little girl can get the treatment she needs.
Amy

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J.R.

answers from Chicago on

I would look into seliac's disease and see if taking her off of wheat made a difference. Just a guess- I'm not a doctor or nurse. Mom's instinct.Good luck and TRUST YOURSELF!!! You sound like you are paying good attention.
Warmly ,J. Roth

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S.F.

answers from Chicago on

This is the doctor we go to. She is great, is a peditrician, specializes in Asthma/Alergies.
I am not sure where you are located, but she is in Naperville

1831 Bay Scott Circle, Suite 109
Naperville, IL 60540
###-###-####

Good Luck!

Dr. Ameeta Bamzai is a board certified pediatrician with sub specialization in allergy and clinical immunology. She is on staff at Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove, Edward Hospital in Naperville and Rush-Copley Medical center in Aurora.

Professional Affiliation:

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology
American Medical Associations
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Illinois Society of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
DuPage County Medical Society
Illinois State Medical Society

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M.O.

answers from Chicago on

Hi, I am a mom and Peds RN. The high liver enzymes bother me. There is no reason why someone should just naturally have high levels without looking into it first. Take her to a pediatric gastroenterologist or nephrologist. The large intake and output of water is EXTREMELY concerning. If interested in Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago call 1-800-KIDSDOC and they will connect you with an excellent specialist. Her balance issue could be related to that or something else. You need to start somewhere and I would check out the itching first. You are absolutely not making a big deal of this. Please respond with any questions or concerns
M.
Mom of a 1mo and peds RN

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D.C.

answers from Chicago on

K.,

I am so sorry you and your daughter are going through this. I wish I had some really good advice for you. I just have two things to say:
1 - Please don't let anyone tell you you're making too big of a deal out of this. If it's bothering you and your daughter, keep searching. Don't let it consume you, but trust yourself to know how important it is. You are her mother. You know best!
2 - I have had some skin problems myself and saw four dermatologists before I finally found one that solved my issues. He took one look at my skin and diagnosed three separate issues. The best part is that the solutions he recommended actually worked! I would highly recommend Dr. Pezen ###-###-####, on Butterfield in Elmhurst; he's in the Mamasource directory). He works with another doctor, too, but I have never met her, so I couldn't advise about whether or not to see her.
Good luck to you and your daughter. I hope Dr. Pezen can help.

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A.H.

answers from Chicago on

K.,
Do not be misled by some doctors that tell you that you are not the best judge of what is wrong with your child. I have been a registered nurse for many years, I feel that a mother's judgement is the most reliable indicator of something wrong with a child. Liver enzymes should NOT be elevated and a child should NOT itch her/his self until it bleeds. Please take your child to the nearest clinic or hospital that specializes in just children. There are great ones in both Chicago,IL and Milwaukee, WI. My prayers are with you.

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M.

answers from Chicago on

Liver problems can be associated with itching, and drinking fluids "excessively" and urinating "excessively" can be associated with kidney problems. The "balance" issue may be in the spectrum of normal "toddler" development or a real problem. The fact that her liver enzymes were high and that you are very concerned warrants a second opinion from another pediatrician. It may turn out that everything is completely normal, but you owe it to yourself and your daughter to make sure. Trust your gut instincts. Make sure you see a board certified pediatrician. One at a major university hospital would be your best bet. They may reassure you and send you home, or refer you to a pediatric gastroenterologist (deal with liver and gastrointestinal problems),a pediatric nephrologist (deal with kidney problems) or pediatric neurologist (deal with brain/spinal cord/nerve problems).

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C.P.

answers from Chicago on

Have you tried:
switching to a dye free very gentle laundry detergent (try whole foods for some good options)
switching to very gentle baby lotions & washes (again... try whole foods for some great options)

Our son had some sensitive skin issues all last winter (he's 17 months now & has been fine throughout the summer) and using the better products really seemed to help. Burts Bees has a good line of baby products... then there's California Baby and a bunch of others. They are more expensive... But if you're constantly at the doctor's office then you're spending tons of cash anyway.... It's worth a try. Our doctor seemed to think that it was just sensitive skin....

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L.

answers from Chicago on

I am a firm believer in motherly instincts. If you believe something is not right I would get a second opinion from a Dr. that is not associated with your current one. If your daughter has been tested with high liver enzymes and is drinking large amounts of water I think a liver or kidney problem is a definate possibility. These are issues that should be diagnosed as soon as possible to avoid further problems.
Good luck, and remember better safe than sorry.

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L.T.

answers from Chicago on

Hi. I work for a nephrology office and many people who complain of itchy skin have a blood level high in phosphorous. Was it included in the blood workup they did on your child? If not, you may want to try it especially if she eats a lot of dairy products. A high phosphorous level can also lead to "bone pain" as it binds to calcium in the system and can actually take calcium away from bones.

Good luck.

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K.E.

answers from Chicago on

Doctors are well equipped to diagnose and treat, but they can�t possibly keep up on all the latest medical discoveries and advances. Further, much of their ability to diagnose accurately, and treat is based upon personal experience � that�s why they spend so much time interning. Your responders have it right. Trust your instincts - you know your baby best, take your child to a place that specializes in children, and I would add, don�t be satisfied until you find the reason. Now that I�ve said that, here is something I�d look into. Allergies aside, there are some vitamins and minerals that can cause serious itching if taken in high enough quantities. That�s not to say it has to come in the form of a pill, it is possible to get enough by eating food rich in them. An example � if I remember right � is zinc; if you get too much, it can cause sever itching. I will check on that it�s zinc, but I�m pretty sure I�m remembering right.

Well, good luck and please keep looking for a doctor that can help.

-K.

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T.G.

answers from Chicago on

wow, i am sorry that you are going through this. i hope that everything works out for you. trust your insticts though. doctors have a way of just kind of making moms feel like we might be over reacting, even though we are not. do you think that it could be excema? (however you spell it) does her skin itch everyday, all day? even though the allergies came back negative, i think i would keep a food diary, or maybe switch detergents, things like that. (if you haven't already.) keep your head up. you are on the track of helping her. just keep going to the doctors, they will have to figure something out. there has to be a reason this is happening. i don't know where you are from, but i have a great doctor in flossmoor illinois. dr dorsey. he works at child life center. his is amazing. i heard years ago he detected a heart condition in a small child that no other doctor noticed before. so that comforts me. (that is if you are looking for yet another opinion) if you want the info, then email me. ____@____.com hope this works out for you.

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R.

answers from Chicago on

Well, I'm no expert, by far, but the excessive drinking is definitely a sign of kidney issues. And, the itchy skin could be a sign of both liver or kidney issues. I would follow your mommy gut and get another opinion. If she has symtoms, it doesn't at all seem like they are normally high. I woudl definitely keep loking. Do not feel as if you are making too much of it.

My kids have had all kinds of crazy health issues - immune system problems, food allergies, Gi issues, etc. For us, the only docs that were helpful were those of the more wholistic bent. My kids also had developmental delays and I found that fixing the medical problems fixed the delays.

Glad to hear that your daughter is doing well otherwise.

R.

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D.

answers from Chicago on

Hi,
I believe that a mother always knows what is best. I am a RN in Labor and Delivery so by no means am I an expert in peds but I would take her to another pediatrician. Get another second opinion. This is your third child and if you think that there is something not right, then you could be right. Mention the excessive drinking, the itching, and the off balace to this new pediatrician. They have drawn blood which is a good thing but maybe another professional needs to look at the results. It could be nothing, you never know but you want to feel like you have done all that you can and it can be especially fustrating when it seems like nobody is listening. With her growth charts, has anything been way off the charts? That would also be something to look into.

Good luck!

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A.G.

answers from Chicago on

Did they test your daughter for diabetes? Excessive thirst and very dry itchy skin can be signs of diabetes. Also, cortizone cream stinks...My son has exzema and I swear it makes it worse...I use GENTLE NATURALS baby exzema cream by Bany Oragel on him ( he's now almost 4). You can find it at TRaget or Walgreens by the bath stuff for babies. Obviously much cheaper at Target..about $6...they usually have coupons attatched to the box as well for a dollar off. It is all natural and very soothing...a little goes a long way and smells great...They also have a body wash that is great as well. The other cream that is great is chamo care...you can find it at whole foods or other health food stores...pricey but works great as well.

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E.A.

answers from Chicago on

This so serious!!!! I would definately continue taking her to different hospitals for further research.
I believe that only a mom knows her child and if you deeply feel there is something else wrong with her, do NOT settle for what the doctors are telling u. Continue to do research and continue to take her to other physicians.
Does she start to itch after eating? Try to establish a pattern of when she starts itching.
I've had alot of trouble with my son due to itching as well but he was not off balance like your daughter and didn't have asthmatic symptoms. That's why I say continue to get more opinins. Just by what you said, I feel that she has a more serious problem.
My son started to itch if he was in the sun. I guess the heat would bother his sensitive skin.
I started to use Aveeno products, such as the baby wash, baby lotion, and baby bath packets and that really helped out alot. I also try not to have him in the sun too much. I use Aveeno Hydrocortisone on him when he's itching.
I took him to an allergist and they were awesome. The allergist name is Lourdes Floro and she's located in Oaklawn. I don't have the contact information with me at the moment but I will forward it to you tomorrow.
Take her to big hospitals such as Children's Memorial, North Western, Little Company of Mary (this is where I take my son and they're really good).

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S.A.

answers from Chicago on

Unfortunately I do not have an answer for you - but agree you should keep looking into resolving the issue. Have you thought about contacting Mayo Clinic in Minnesota - they have an excellent program and take things very seriously. Additionally, my first born was a very sick kid for lots of reasons and we had nothing but great experiences at Children's Memorial Hospital. There extensive staff and experience with children really lightened our load. Also, have you gone online and entered your symptoms and performed a search - not very scientific - but it may give you a list of questions you should be asking to rule things out. Finally - not to be trivial - but a case of dry skin can cause a child to itch until the point of bleeding - my second son is as close to lizard skin as you can get - if I don't keep his skin from being dry - he will scratch it off -- we do at least 2 oatmeal baths a week and put lotion on at least once a day - and sometimes more if he is having a dry spell - he has no allergies - we did the allergy panel for a bunch of things -- his skin is just dry all the time. Well - anyway -- Commend yourself for being a great MOM !!! We always know when something is not quite right and we need to always listen to that quite voice inside that talks to us. I will pray that you find resolution and that it is quick!! :)

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E.

answers from Chicago on

Hi Kim,
You may have gotten other advice already, but you know your child better than all these pediatricians combined. If you feel something is still wrong, then you must pursue it. Are any of your pediatricians affiliated with Children's Memorial downtown? Perhaps you can bring her to see someone there. This is an age of incredible growth and development, so to find the source of her problem now would be of great benefit to her. I feel so bad for you and your frustrations. Don't give up, and keep pushing forward. Try playing around on the internet. A friend of mine put out a question on a website thru the Mayo clinic and a doctor responded with advice that ended up pretty much saving her hubby's life.

good luck
e

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A.H.

answers from Chicago on

Hi K.. You didn't mention anything about eczema in your emails and it is my understanding that kids with Asthma are certain to have at least one form of eczema. My son was officially diagnosed with Asthma after several trips to the ER during the winter months last year and he too has itchy skin. His eczema is pretty noticeable so there was really no mystery for me.
Not sure if this is any help to you. I would suggest using a bath soap that does not have SLS (try Aveeno brand) and use lotion everyday. I like the Eucrein calming cream.

Good luck
A.

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A.F.

answers from Chicago on

K.,

I am so so sorry for what you are going through. It is sounds very similar to what I went through last year with my son, who had mysteriously itchy skin, and balance issues, and some breathing problems. I will tell you that you are the advocate for your child, and no doctor will be able to tell you exactly what to do. You will have to set up the doctor's appointments and also be willing to give some things a try. I would first like to address the skin concerns:

Itchy skin can be caused by dryness (although not visible), sensitivity to chemicals/fragrances, allergies, and eczema. After 9 months of constant itching, here is what I did with my son, and amazingly within 7-8 days all of his itching disappeared and his skin was baby-soft again.

- I switched all soaps, shampoos, laundry detergents, and lotions to fragrance free, hypoallergenic versions. Personally what I use is a soap/shampoo combination made by Huggies that is fragrance free and hypoallergenic (GRINS & GIGGLES BABY WASH FOR HAIR&BODY GENTLE&MILD OATMEAL TEAR FREE HYPOALLERGENIC)

- I did not let him take any baths with soap in it and I limited the time in the bath so that his skin would not dry out. Typcially I showered him and washed him quickly, and then let him play in a bath of clean water for a few minutes.

- As soon as he gets out of the bath, I put cortaid lotion or ointment on him where he itches, and then immediately I put Aquaphor all over his body. Aquaphor is what really made a big difference in his itching and skin and I use it at least 2 times a day. We keep extra containers in each bathroom and in my purse. It is a bit expensive, but well worth the money.

-I use Arm & Hammer laundry detergent that is fragrance free and hypoallergenic. In general, even on suncreen and all other products, I now check if a product has fragrance listed as an ingredient and if it does I don't use it.

- I also started washing his bedding in extremely hot water and removed anything fabric from his bedroom, such as curtains, padded rocking chair, stuffed animals. This is in case he had allergies to dust and dust mites, and it seemed to help his breathing a lot. Eventually we also put an air purifier in his bedroom and switched our furnace filter to a pleated filter.

- He was tested by a highly recommended allergist adn he did not find anything. I did take him to an ENT (Ear Nose and Throat specialist). I strongly recommend that you take your daughter to one because the balance problem is likely due to a bigger problem. He found things that my pediatrician could not find (even though I adore her). After doing a CAT scan, he found that my son had very enlarged tonsils which was affecting his breathing, and also had enlarged adenoids farther back which were blocking the drainage from his ears causing constant fluid buildup which caused him to have imbalance. Unfortunately, the pediatrician, allergist, and other doctors did not see fluid in his ears or enlarged tonsils. The balance part was scary because there were mornings that he woke up and could not walk...

I agree with the others that you should follow up on the thirst and excessive urination. Please call or email me if you like at ____@____.com or ###-###-####.

A.

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S.L.

answers from Chicago on

Hello!

Have you tried Hydro Cortizone 1%? It works on my kids and my self!!!

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D.S.

answers from Chicago on

K.,
I'm not in the medical field but I read recently that the allergy "scratch" test is not a definitive test. Maybe you need to get a couple more allergy blood tests which are supposed to be more reliable. I don't know if you got all of them. Exzcema is often accompanied by food allergies. I know this because my son had really bad rashes when he was a baby and now he has food allergies. He still gets rashes. His allergist is pretty good. If you want a referral, email me.

Just to be on the safe side, I would't totally discount the high enzyme levels from the liver and kidney tests even if you need to check with a third doctor (specialist in this area). You can't be too careful with this .... these are vital organs afterall. The fact that she is thirsty all the time is a bit worrisome.

For the itchy skin try California Baby Super Sensitive body/hair wash. You can get this at Whole Foods. Make sure your detergent is fragrance free and rince twice in the washing machiine. Also .5% or 1% coritizone cream (but ask your doctor first + it is not good to use it too often).

Hope this helps a bit.

Diana

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J.C.

answers from Chicago on

I have a two year old son who had one asthma attack and since it ran in the family the dr assummed it was and since he has eczema too that is linked to asthma, he did end up having another attack, but neither of which he was hospitalized for, and my pediatrician is considering it asthma. My son also has occasional more minor itching of his eczema patches. And the dr did get us a prescription for it. Our Ped is of Barrington rd and Schaumburg rd in Streamwood and I am 27 and I went to him when I was a kid too, so I know he is a great doctor. This name is Dr David Nadelman and his # is ###-###-####, they are in the office on Saturday if you are interested.

Good Luck and hope you figure it out.

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J.

answers from Chicago on

You need to find an endocrinologist at Childrens Memorial downtown. Your daughter is sick they just haven't found out what it is. You are not nuts always trust your intincts and Drs do not know everything. Good Luck

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D.P.

answers from Chicago on

K.,
I really do not know what to suggest as far as what can be wrong with your daughter. I would say, you are not crazy and to go with you gut feeling on this. You are her mother and you see how she is suffering so I would keep going to medical professionals for help. You might want to go to a liver specialist. It is not normal for liver enzymes to be high. I know this is not related to your daughter's condition. when I was pregnant with my daughter, she is now 1 as well, I had a liver condition that was very rare. It was called Obstetric Cholestasis. I itched and itched and itched some more. I could not sleep, eat, or go outside if it was hot out. I was miserable. I destroyed my skin and am left with scars from this. I feel very badly for your daughter. I know first hand how awful she must feel. My liver enzymes during this time were extremely elevated. Result, itchy skin. I wish you luck with this and hope that it is nothing serious. BTW--My condition was strictly caused from the pregnancy. Did you have anything like this when you were pregnant with her?? My whole point about this is that elevated liver enzymes=itching.
That is not normal. If you have any questions I will try to help. I hoped you are able to resolve this very quickly. I would be interested in knowing how everything works out. If you do not mind, email me back directly at ____@____.com

D.

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M.L.

answers from Rockford on

Dr Alan Resnick MD Top Allergist Dr. at Childrens Hospital In Chicago ###-###-####.
He is the best
I have had all three of my children to him.
Our daughter has itchy and a hive problem we have dealt with it since birth
He helped alot I highly suggest you go to him.

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N.

answers from Chicago on

K.,
I feel sorry but I encourage you to find the solution to that.I agree with people who responded that you might want to get it checked may be it is the exzema bcoz of asthma because my Mom has got that .Or it might be some kidney or diebetic issue.Also my son (4 yr old)is very sensitive to soaps and detegents so I have to be very careful in changing any of those.Try using liquid detergent and check if u use bleach for colors (my son went through a lot with that).I can recommend his pediatircian in Buffalo grove (Dr.Baeyer. 847/459-1160)
I hope it works out for you.Goodluck!

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M.S.

answers from Chicago on

WOW! Mamasourse Mammas are the BEST! Look at all this great advice!

I wish I could call you and go over everything with you. I would ask you about what she eats, when she itches the most, what kind of clothes she wears, what her environment is like (smokers?), what do mean by excessive drinking?, What was her athsma attack like?, What kind of shoes does she wear?, When does she seem unbalanced? Feel free to contact me. I would love to brainstorm with you.

anyway, here's my 2 cents, with love:

1) Food Diary- Keep one, anyone who is going to help you heal your daughter is going to need to see this. Anyone who does not want to reference your food diary is wasting your time.

2) Natural Foods. Simplify what you feed your daughter. Feed her as many fresh whole foods as possible. Omit synthetic foods, snacks, and drinks. Fresh pressed juice, Pure water, and simple, easily digested meals. The changes will be AMAZING!

3) Soaps- When I do use soap (which is rare) I use Dr. Bronners soap. A tiny bit in a tubful of warm water and pat dry. I only "soap up" hair and bottom (quickly and carefully) I never soap other parts of the body.

4) Moisturizers- I once read: "Never put anything on your body that you would not eat" It makes sense. I use Olive oil. I use it in the bath and for massages.

5) Detergents- Basically they break down delicate skin- especially bleaches. Find a gentler detergent. You will find one. I also use baking soda in my wash- it's cheap and totally refreshing! Use the gentle detergent for all things your daughter comes in contact with. Bedsheets (even yours)
Towels, Blankets.

6) Mind over matter- To give credit to the mamma who suggested keeping her busy to help "forget" the itchiness- GREAT IDEA!

I hope you can gather all the good information given to you and help your daughter soon. I am sure you're very frustrated. I hope you find my suggestions helpful. I firmly believe that you can assist your daughter's body in healing. I always find comfort in the fact that our bodies were designed to be "self-healing". Giving the body the opportunity to heal is the key.

Warm regards,
M.

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K.

answers from Chicago on

You may want to have your daughter evaluated for diabetes. Itching and excessive thirst are both signs. Also, you may want to try a new pediatrician who will take your concerns seriously. Itching like that isn't normal. Something is going on. You also may want to ask for something like Zyrtec to give her daily and see if it relieves the itching.

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D.

answers from Chicago on

i might not be on the right page at all with this, but did you say they have checked her bilirubin levels? I personally was having a problem after I had my son and I have something called Gilberts Disease. It's quite common and not harmful, but it can cause itching. It's from one or more of the bilirubin levels being too high. Like I said, just a thought. I had to have alot of tests too. And finally a specialist knew of this disease and was able to help heal the itching. Good luck with everything.

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N.D.

answers from Chicago on

Hi there-

I am sorry to hear that you are going through this and hope that you get a second/ third/ fourth opinion until you find out what is causing this. It could be nothing but that is for you to find out. Elevated liver levels is not something to just let go of. Please take the time to find out what is going on.

Additionally, you might want to rule out diabetes. Does this run in your family? It did mine and my first symptom was itchy skin. They had no idea what was causing it and I don't remember if any of my levels were elevated but excessive thirst can also be directly related to diabetes and is in fact, the first symptom that most people experience. I know she is young but a simple blood test should rule that out.

A great website that I use for medical issues is www.wrongdiagnosis.com. I looked up "itchy skin" as a symptom and this is what it found:
http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/sym/itching_skin.htm

Hope this helps. Educate yourself on some potential issues and take them to your doctor to rule it out. I have an excellent pediatrician in Elk Grove Village if you are interested.

Good luck!

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N.S.

answers from Chicago on

I was reading your message and I myself bagan to itch from hearing your story! I feel terrible for your child going through that and the likelyhood is that your child is sensitive to something in your environment. First that comes to my mind is your cleaning agents - most are literally poisonous to anyone around, including ourselves, adults. Next is the creams and soaps you're using. You may or may not want to get involved with this line of products but I would be happy to introduce you if you are. We use Melaleuca products exclusively in our home and we NEVER get rashes anymore, NEVER get irritations, NEVER have colds anymore, you name it...It is all toxin free from laundry products to creams, oils, shampoos, soaps, cleaning agents etc. They all are made with melaleuca oil and they are patented. We are so happy with their things and I don't gag when we clean the floors and windows anymore. I love it to know that I am raising my kids with no toxins and chemicals in our home. If you want to find more out I can do a presentation for you or you can see all the products. I do not make a profit unless you sign up and become an official member so honestly I am only promoting it cause I love the stuff! If you want more info, it's ____@____.com
Good luck!

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A.M.

answers from Chicago on

Hi there-
First of all, I am so sorry. This sounds awful to go through.
I haven't dealt with anything like this, but I do have the most wonderful doctor. Her name is Lynda Lane and she's at 2800 N. Sheridan ( right at the corner of Diversey). Her # is ###-###-####. She would be great as a second opinion because she has a ton of specialists at Resurrection as resources. She handled an odd situation for me once, and never did she try to minimize my concern. She is also my daughter's pediatrition, and I trust her fully. ( I also believe that she has Saturday hours)
Good Luck,
A. M.

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R.T.

answers from Chicago on

Dear K.,

Off-hand, when I hear all those things together, itchiness, excessive thirst and/or urnination, breathing problems, I immediately thought diabetes. Although I think that the blood tests should have caught that? Just a thought. I had friends whos little boy wanted to drink and then urinate constantly and he was itchy all the time. Turned out to be diabetes.

R.

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R.

answers from Chicago on

I can't give you any medical advice but Aveeno cream can really help with the itching. My son (11 months) & I use it to prevent the itching associated with mild - severe exczema. Your daughter may not have the same condition, but the Aveeno moisterizer & bath/ shower wash may help her feel more comfortable.

Good Luck,

R.

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C.M.

answers from Chicago on

We have a great pediatric dermatiologist. Her name is Annette Wagner. She can be reached thru the Children's Memorial main number in the city and has offices in the suburbs and downtown.

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K.

answers from Chicago on

Hello K.

Don't ever just sit back and let it go. If your mommy gut has a feeling then go with it. Believe me i've wished I didn't just listen to the drs and would of pushed them...another story. Anyway for your daughters itching you can use Aquaphor my daughter has eczema and it works great. Also Shea Butter creams...Bath and Body Works have this lotion that works wonderful but it is expensive.If nothing works then ask your dr for a prescription of a steroid creme(Its for worst case but don't always use this). To wash her clothes use All Free and Clear...its the best to use and has no added chemicals. You should have them look and find out if she has excema or psyorisis(sp?) and that has to do with liver. Has your daughter ever been checked for kidney reflux? Has she had any urinary infections? If she has have them find out why. If she cries when she pees or if she waits for as long as she can and then BOOM has a soaked diaper(my middle daughter had kidney problems). This is not to be taken lightly and you do not want to have regrets later on in life. Ask your daughters ped. to give you a referral to drs at Childrens Memorial(terrific urologists) and they will help your daughter.
If your dr is not helping you and just putting this under the table like its nothing i'd think about leaving that dr and going to someone who is going to listen and help your daughter and you. Don't be intimadated by a dr. and do NOT be afraid to stand up and speak your mind...this is YOUR daughter and you have every right for another opionon. Good luck and good for you for not taking no as your answer.If you would like to email me you can.

K.

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