Managing pruritus (itchiness) and fatigue

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The most common symptoms of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) are pruritus and fatigue

Other symptoms include, but are not limited to, dry eyes and mouth, and trouble remembering and concentrating.

Everyone experiences symptoms differently and some may have no symptoms at all. However, the presence of symptoms or how severe they feel is not related to how far PBC has progressed, or how well your treatment is working. It’s also normal for these symptoms to appear, disappear, or continue at any stage.

Over 8 in 10 people with PBC are affected by pruritus

My liver was cirrhotic, but I didn’t even have any symptoms (no itching, no fatigue)—and I still don’t.
—Audrey, living with PBC

Hear from others like you

Proactive lifestyle changes can help manage pruritus, like:

Keeping the bedroom cool at
night and playing “white noise”

Staying away from dehydrating
activities and situations
(eg, saunas, dry climate)

Applying topical corticosteroids

Staying away from smoking
tobacco

Wearing loose-fitting clothing
made with non-irritating
materials

Drinking enough water to stay
hydrated

Adding an antihistamine

Keeping fingernails trimmed or
wearing gloves to bed

Download a fact sheet on pruritus

There are also ways to help with fatigue, like:

Finding a good support system or group
Staying social and avoiding situations that make you feel lonely
Setting up an exercise routine (starting slowly)

Learn more about fatigue and PBC

Your healthcare team is there to help

PBC could increase the risk of depression, especially if your symptoms are not diagnosed and treated. Cognitive dysfunction, described by patients as brain fog, is also common in patients with PBC. Speak with your healthcare team about how your symptoms affect you. They can help you manage these symptoms and create a treatment plan for your unique needs.

The PBC Living® app can help you track and monitor your PBC

Here are some ideas from Dr. Jennifer Pate

As Chief of Psychiatry at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center, Dr. Pate provides some everyday tips for managing your symptoms.

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Keep your healthcare team informed on how you’re feeling

PBC commonly occurs with at least 1 other autoimmune disease. Having multiple autoimmune conditions means symptoms can overlap, making symptom management, diagnosis, and treatment challenging. Some people don’t even experience symptoms for up to 5 years after diagnosis. Together with your healthcare team, you can create a treatment plan that works for you.

You’re not alone in this journey

Get access to tools, resources, and other information, plus connect with other people living with PBC.

All participating parties, including patients, physicians, and experts, were compensated by Intercept Pharmaceuticals.