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Embracing Life with Prurigo Nodularis

Learn about this skin condition that affects our communities at higher rates than white people and find resources that may help you or a loved one.

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What is Prurigo Nodularis?

Prurigo nodularis (PN) is a skin condition that makes you super itchy. Over time, you get these bumps called nodules, usually on your body, arms, and legs. Because they itch so much, people scratch them a lot, which can make them bleed.¹

But someone living with PN might explain it better than we can! Watch the video to hear from one of our ambassadors, Tiwana.

Watch The Full Video

Symptoms of Prurigo Nodularis

Prurigo nodularis starts with intense itching that may include a burning or stinging sensation. After about 6 weeks of scratching itchy skin, bumps or nodules begin to appear which cause even more intense itching and are difficult to get rid of. The bumps or nodules can present on the body in many different ways. Here are some things to look for:

ITCHY BUMPS

You'll notice raised, firm bumps on your skin. These bumps can be skin-colored, pink, red, or even brownish-black. They're really itchy, and the itchiness can be intense, especially at night. Instead of itching, some people have a burning/stinging sensation. In rare cases, some feel like bugs are crawling on their skin.²

SCRATCHED & CHANGED SKIN

Because the bumps are so itchy, you might find yourself scratching them a lot. It can make bumps look even worse - they might get bigger, bleed, or even scar. You might also see some dark or light spots where the bumps used to be.²

LOCATION

Itching can begin in small areas or be widespread. These itchy bumps can show up almost anywhere on your body, but they're often found on your arms, legs, upper back, lower back, belly, or buttocks.²

Looking for more information?

Learn More About The Disease

Risk Factors for Prurigo Nodularis

Here are a few factors that might put you at risk for developing PN:³

Things You Can't Change:

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Age: Being 50 or older, especially between 51 and 65.
Ethnicity: Being Black, especially if you have eczema that flares up often.
Family history: Having a family member with PN or other itchy skin conditions.

Things That Might Increase Your Risk:

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Other skin conditions: Eczema, psoriasis, or other skin diseases that cause itchiness.
Long-term illnesses: Diabetes, hepatitis C, kidney disease, liver disease, untreated HIV, or certain cancers like lymphoma.
Mental health conditions: Anxiety, depression, or other conditions that can cause stress.
Environmental triggers: Heat, sweating, and tight clothing can make itching worse.

Things That Might Decrease Your Risk:

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Good skin care: Keeping your skin moisturized and avoiding harsh soaps can help prevent dryness and itching.
Stress management: Finding healthy ways to cope with stress can reduce flare-ups.
Treating underlying conditions: Managing any other health problems that contribute to itching can also help.

Remember, it’s important to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about your skin health.

Here are a few factors that might put you at risk for developing PN:

Things You Can't Change:

Edit Content

Age: Being 50 or older, especially between 51 and 65.
Ethnicity: Being Black, especially if you have eczema that flares up often.
Family history: Having a family member with PN or other itchy skin conditions.

Things that might increase your risk:

Edit Content

Age: Being 50 or older, especially between 51 and 65.
Ethnicity: Being Black, especially if you have eczema that flares up often.
Family history: Having a family member with PN or other itchy skin conditions.

Remember, it’s important to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about your skin health.

Resources for Living with Prurigo Nodularis

Living with PN? Explore resources and stories to help you on your journey.

Embracing Life with Prurigo Nodularis

What is Prurigo Nodularis?

Symptoms of Prurigo Nodularis

ITCHY BUMPS

SCRATCHED & CHANGED SKIN

LOCATION

Risk Factors for Prurigo Nodularis

Resources for Living with Prurigo Nodularis

DARICHA’S JOURNEY

COPING WITH PRURIGO NODULARIS

JOIN OUR HAIR AND SKIN CIRCLE

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