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What’s Hell’s Itch And Why Does It Happen?
HuffPost • • health
Key Points:
- Johnny Hays experienced a rare and severe reaction called "Hell’s Itch" after sun exposure without a sunburn, characterized by intense stabbing pain and uncontrollable itching appearing 1-3 days later.
- Hell’s Itch involves abnormal nerve signaling triggered by UV-induced skin inflammation and is poorly understood, with no definitive diagnostic criteria or proven treatments.
- Common anecdotal remedies include hot showers, antihistamines, ibuprofen, peppermint oil, and beta-alanine, though effectiveness varies and some treatments may worsen symptoms.
- Beta-alanine, found in some pre-workout supplements, has shown potential for rapid symptom relief but requires further clinical trials to confirm efficacy and safety.
- Medical experts advise hydration, cool compresses, avoiding sun exposure and irritants, and seeking professional care if symptoms are severe or persistent.
