Andrew suffered from severe, unexplained pruritus for three years, seeing several doctors without finding relief. He tried tar soap, colloidal silver cream, antihistamines, and naturopathic treatments, but nothing helped.
A routine blood test eventually led to a diagnosis of Polycythaemia Vera (PV). After starting treatment, his itching improved within a few months.
A review of earlier blood tests showed that his haematocrit and red blood cell count had been elevated at least a year before his diagnosis, suggesting the condition could have been detected earlier.
Andrew hopes his story raises awareness that persistent, unexplained itching can be an early sign of PV.
Andrew has also prepared a video explaining his story.
