Question:
Has anyone had problems with your back itching post-op?

I am 17 days post-op. Since I had surgery, my back has itched terribly. It is driving me crazy. I use a Benadryl spray to help. Anyone else have suggestions or know why this is?    — tulagirl (posted on August 8, 2002)

August 8, 2002
You probably have an allergy to the narcotics your doc put you on for pain. I had this same problem when I was on morphine in the hospital and then afterwards when I was on percocet. See if your doctor can suggest an alternate med.
   — Terissa R.

August 8, 2002
I am now just a little over 4 weeks post-op. At about 17 days I also developed a rash around my incisions, and rash on my neck and arms. It itched like heck. My surgeon didn't know what was going on. It spread and I went to a dermatologist. He didn't know what was going on either. Said it could have been an allergic reaction to the medication but just didn't know. My only advice would be that if it gets worse (as mine did) to see a dermatologist. My dermatologist told me that it was a good thing when I came in because my itching and rash were spreading and if I hadn't gone to see him, I could have had a systemic condition that would have taken months to get rid of. After a few days of cream and oral medication he gave me, I am doing much better. Take care and good luck.
   — Joanie J.

August 8, 2002
It was the Morphine for me...totally. I itched like crazy and my boyfriend bought me this really long back-scratcher for the hospital stay. It was one of my best friends. Demerol made me so sick and nauseaous..so I stuck to the morphine. Even the codeine does it for me, so it's either itch or be in pain. I'd rather scratch away :)
   — Kelly C.

August 8, 2002
I too think it is from the anesthesia as it usually gives me hives all over. Anyway, see if you can get a prescription for Prednisone. (I think that is how it's spelled). That stuff is the only thing that works for me.
   — Danmark