Annie Lowry, a Staff writer for The Atlantic, shares her harrowing experience with chronic itch due to a rare liver condition, diving into its emotional and societal implications. Screenwriter Richard Price discusses his new novel, Lazarus Man, which highlights resilience amidst community challenges in Harlem. Maureen Corrigan recommends uplifting reads, bringing a light-hearted perspective to the conversation. Together, they explore the complex intersections of personal struggle, literature, and the nuances of human connection.
Chronic itch, often misunderstood, is a complex condition that can drastically affect daily life and social perceptions.
Richard Price's novel 'Lazarus Man' explores themes of second chances, reflecting his storytelling experiences from acclaimed HBO series like The Wire.
Deep dives
Understanding Chronic Itch
Chronic itch, often dismissed as a minor discomfort, can be debilitating and significantly impact daily life. Annie Lowry, a staff writer, experiences severe chronic itch due to a rare liver disease. She describes the sensation as maddening, often akin to the acute phase of poison ivy, but without any visible rash. Despite common treatments like antihistamines and steroids, her condition remains resistant to medication, leading her to undertake extreme measures in search of relief.
The Science Behind Itch
The podcast delves into the scientific understanding of itch, exploring how specific nerve networks and chemical signals contribute to the sensation. Researchers are discovering that chronic itching can rewire the body's response systems, making it a standalone issue rather than just a symptom of another ailment. Lowry notes that sensations of itch can occur in places within the body that lack skin nerves, showcasing the complexity of how our bodies process these feelings. This highlights the need for more advanced treatments and understanding of itchy conditions beyond the typical pharmaceutical options.
The Social Stigma of Itching
Lowry discusses the social perceptions surrounding itch and the embarrassment it can cause, leading to dismissive attitudes towards individuals experiencing it. There is an inherent stigma associated with scratching in public, often leading to feelings of isolation for those suffering from chronic itch. As itching is not as publicly acknowledged as pain, it can be overlooked in both personal relationships and medical contexts. This is compounded by how common scratching is observed to be contagious, creating a cycle where witnessing someone itch can exacerbate the urge to scratch in others.
Challenges in Itch Research
Despite the prevalence of itch-related issues, there is a lack of specialized research and treatment centers focused on chronic itch, unlike pain management facilities. The podcast highlights how societal attitudes often lead to chronic itch being minimized or ridiculed, resulting in fewer resources allocated to understanding and alleviating the condition. Lowry notes the importance of recognizing itch as a serious health concern, pointing out that many people silently suffer in frustration. With the growing awareness of chronic itch, it becomes essential to elevate the discussion and research surrounding this widespread yet underappreciated phenomenon.
Atlantic staff writer Annie Lowery suffers from a rare liver condition that causes severe chronic itch. It led her to look into the stigma of itchiness, the itch-scratch cycle, and finding acceptance in her body.
Also, we hear from screenwriter and author of one of the most anticipated novels of the season, Richard Price. His new novel, Lazarus Man, is about second chances. Price also wrote for the HBO shows The Wire, The Deuce and The Night Of.
And Maureen Corrigan has two books to recommend if you're looking for inspiration, beauty, and humor.