Lymphoma and Severe Itching: What Helps?

Severe, persistent itching is a common symptom among lymphoma patients, even after applying moisturizer. This discomfort can stem from the cancer itself or as a side effect of treatment such as chemotherapy or targeted therapy.

Here’s what you can do to soothe your skin and feel more comfortable:

1. Use a rich, fragrance-free moisturizer

• Choose a cream that is fragrance-free and alcohol-free, such as CeraVe, Cetaphil, Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream, Physiogel AI.
• Apply the cream immediately after bathing within 3–5 minutes while the skin is still damp.

2. Avoid harsh soaps or shower gels.

• Use a gentle soap, such as baby soap, pH-balanced shower gel, or soap for sensitive skin.
• Avoid using a sponge to scrub your body or scratch your skin hard.

3. Take a shower with room temperature water or warm water not exceeding 37°C.

• Water that is too hot will further strip moisture from your skin, making it drier and itchier.

4. Wear soft, breathable clothing.

• Avoid tight clothing or coarse fabrics, such as wool.

5. Use topical medication if itching is severe.

• Such as calamine lotion, 1% hydrocortisone cream (should be used only under the advice of a doctor)

6. Oral medications that help relieve itching (consult a doctor before use)

• Some people may need to take medications that reduce inflammation in the body or adjust cancer medications that have side effects. such as
  • Loratadine, Cetirizine (ไม่ง่วง)
  • Hydroxyzine, Diphenhydramine (ช่วยให้หลับง่ายถ้าคันตอนกลางคืน)
• บางรายอาจต้องใช้ยาที่ช่วยลดการอักเสบในร่างกาย หรือปรับยารักษามะเร็งที่มีผลข้างเคียง