dVH/RALH Itchy Incisions

I'm 4 days post op and my incisions are driving me crazy!! The itch is so intense I can barely stand it! Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Check with your doc, but maybe a Benedryl or some cortisone cream? I definitely wouldn't advise a Benedryl if you are still taking narcotics. And I'm not sure what the rule is for putting creams near incisions... Safest bet is to just give the office a call.

If you absolute MUST scratch them, GENTLY rub/pat them. It's a trick that DH was taught when he was 10 and had his first open heart surgery. It helps relieve the itch but doesn't harm them.

Since itching means it is healing, the fact that it itches is a good thing. The thing that helps me most is distraction - I try to do something to distract myself, like getting up for a walk, switching locations (I have 3 spots for relaxation,) or even calling and talking to someone.

Try a cold pack, that always did the trick for me.