Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition that affects your kidneys' ability to filter waste products from your blood. While kidney disease may not initially show signs on your skin, it can lead to a range of symptoms as it progresses. One common symptom experienced by many CKD patients is itchy skin, also known as pruritus. Wondering why that is?
Here, PatientsLikeMe will explore how CKD affects the skin and why. We hope you find this overview helpful, as well as a reference for informing care!
Why Does Chronic Kidney Disease Cause Itchy Skin?
When your kidneys are not functioning properly, waste products and toxins can build up in your bloodstream. This buildup can lead to a condition called uremia, where these waste products irritate nerves in your skin, causing itchiness. CKD can also disrupt the balance of minerals and nutrients in your body, such as calcium and phosphorus. This in turn can further contribute to skin irritation and itching.
How Does Itchy Skin Affect You?
Itchy skin associated with CKD can range from mildly annoying to severely disruptive. Some people experience constant itching all over their body, while others may have localized itching in specific areas. This persistent itchiness can interfere with daily activities, disrupt sleep, and negatively impact your quality of life. Constant scratching can also lead to skin damage, including raw, bleeding patches, thickened skin, and scarring.
What Can You Do?
If you are experiencing itchy skin due to chronic kidney disease, there are several steps you can take to find relief.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out toxins from your body and keep your skin hydrated, reducing the urge to scratch.
- Moisturize Regularly: Applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to your skin can help soothe dryness and reduce itching. Look for moisturizers with ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid, which help restore and retain moisture in the skin.
- Avoid Hot Water: Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils and exacerbate dryness and itching. Stick to lukewarm water when bathing or showering, and limit your time in the water.
- Choose Gentle Skin Care Products: Opt for mild, non-irritating cleansers and laundry detergents to minimize skin irritation. Avoid products with harsh chemicals or fragrances that can further irritate sensitive skin.
- Wear Loose, Breathable Clothing: Tight or rough fabrics can aggravate itchy skin. Choose soft, breathable clothing made from natural fibers like cotton or bamboo to minimize irritation.
- Use Cool Compresses: Applying a cool, damp cloth or ice pack to itchy areas can provide temporary relief and help reduce inflammation and redness.
- Seek Medical Advice: If home remedies aren't providing relief, or if your itching is severe and persistent, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess your condition, prescribe medications to alleviate itching, and recommend other treatment options, such as UVB phototherapy.
While chronic kidney disease can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like itchy skin, there are steps you can take to manage and alleviate your discomfort. By staying hydrated, moisturizing regularly, and seeking medical advice when needed, you can find relief and improve your overall quality of life despite living with CKD.
