![Why Do We Itch? - podcast episode cover](https://media.npr.org/assets/img/2022/09/23/fresh-air_tile_npr-network-01_sq-a6f7c547c8e78b8230edc7fc3c32005de3756e0d.jpg?s=1400&c=66&f=jpg)
Episode description
We've all had bug bites, or dry scalp, or a sunburn that causes itch. But what if you felt itchy all the time — and there was no relief? Atlantic journalist Annie Lowrey suffers from primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), a degenerative liver disease in which the body mistakenly attacks cells lining the bile ducts, causing them to inflame. The result is a severe itch that doesn't respond to antihistamines or steroids. She talks with Terry Gross about finding a diagnosis, treatment, and what scientists know about itch.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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