Off topic: Itchy stitches!!

Hey Everyone,
Sorry I haven't been on lately, it's the end of the semester and I'm busy getting work done, as usual.
My question is a bit off topic but my sanity relies on answers! I have three stitches on my back after having a spot removed, and they itch like crazy!!!! It's at a spot I really can't reach! I have another 10 day relationship with these little pieces of fishing line, anybody know how to reduce the itching?? I'm afraid to use a topical cream with anti-itch because it's a wound, even though it's probably started to close up on it's own. Any ideas???

Happy Spring,
Laura

[Michele]

I took some Benadryl when I was itchy from my stitches....it made me a little sleepy but it helped.

[SueC]

That sounds awful--maybe it is a good thing that you can't actually reach the stitches? Anyhow, I don't have any advice but hope you find something that helps you get through the next 10 days!

[PrincessFiona]

Laura,

I think the benadryl suggestion is a good one...though you may want to call your doctor...you might be having an allergic reaction to the steri strips on top of the stitches? I know that I had that once and I actually ended up with blisters under the steri strips that caused scarring! In any case, if you're having a mild allergic reaction your doc might want to look at it just in case??

kris

Ooooh, that doesn't sound like fun! I've had some biopsies done in the past and have allergic reactions to polysporin (sp?) and also band-aids that are made out of latex. I usually get a rash. If your stitches are in a spot that isn't really irritated by clothing, you might be able to take the bandages off....but if your clothes rub against the stitches than it could make the itching worse.

I hope the end to the 10 day wait comes fast so you can get those stitches out!

El