Kidney failure occurs when kidney function drops below 15% of normal. This condition often results from a prolonged decline in function. Many people are unaware they have the disease until it is incidentally discovered during a general check-up or due to another health issue.
In some cases, patients may experience acute kidney injury or acute kidney failure. Symptoms usually appear within days, unlike the silent progression over time seen in chronic conditions. Acute kidney failure often links to another medical condition, such as sepsis. This condition can affect multiple organs in the body, with skin itching being one of its typical symptoms.
Skin itching is often attributed to allergies, weather, or dry skin. However, experts state that persistent itching, particularly when it appears body-wide and recurs frequently, can sometimes indicate declining kidney function.
According to Medical News Today, many individuals with chronic kidney disease experience persistent itching because their bodies cannot effectively excrete waste and toxins. Kidneys filter blood, remove waste, and maintain mineral balance. When kidney function declines, waste products accumulate in the blood, irritating nerves under the skin and causing prolonged itching.
Individuals with chronic kidney disease often experience dry skin, calcium-phosphorus imbalances, and increased inflammatory responses, all contributing to prolonged itching. This condition is more common in people with advanced kidney failure or those undergoing dialysis.
According to Medical News Today, kidney disease-related itching sometimes presents without a clear rash but can cause severe discomfort, impacting sleep and quality of life.
Itching: signs to watch for
Not all itching relates to kidney disease. However, experts recommend paying attention if itching persists for weeks, appears in multiple body areas, or worsens at night.
Some individuals experience a burning or tingling sensation under the skin even without a visible rash. Constant scratching can lead to skin abrasions, thickening, or increased susceptibility to infection.
Other symptoms of kidney failure
In early stages, kidney disease often progresses silently and is difficult to recognize. As kidney function declines more severely, patients may experience symptoms like nausea, loss of appetite, bad breath, high blood pressure, or swelling around the ankles.
According to Healthline, beyond skin itching, declining kidney function can also cause swollen legs, persistent fatigue, frequent nighttime urination, muscle cramps, and difficulty concentrating. Medical News Today also warns that some individuals may experience darkened, dry skin or edema due to the body retaining water and waste.
When to seek medical attention?
Patients should seek medical attention if itching persists without a clear cause, especially when moisturizers or allergy medications offer no improvement.
Individuals experiencing prolonged itching of unknown cause, particularly those with underlying conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, should not overlook these signs. Early detection of kidney disease can help slow the progression of kidney failure and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
Bao Bao (Compiled)
