Itchy skin because of creatinine?

[Durabase]

Can high level of creatinine cause itchy skin?

My dad suffering from diabetes and kidney problems recently complains about his skin being very itchy as much as it’s interfering with his sleep.

He’s had the kidney problem for a couple of years now and the level of creatinine has been rising despite a strict diet. The doctor has said the itch is a symptom of high creatinine in blood but there’s little we can do. According to his recent tests, the creatinine level was 4.04 mg/dL.

We've tried conventional moisturizer but it hasn't helped that much.

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador]

HI Durabase, It is actually phosphorous that tends to make the skin itchy. Have a lab done to see what his level is. then try to lower his foods that are high in phosphorous. There are a ton of websites with listing of different foods with high and low phosphorous. I have copied a basic list for you. Watch out for additives in things, such as creamer and other Non-dairy products.

Also, check the soap he is using. It may have changed and now its to harsh. If he has diabetes, that too will dry the skin and make it itchy. Make sure he is hydrated. It will help his kidneys in the long run too to drink plenty of just water.

davita.com/diet-nutrition/a...

[Durabase in reply to Bassetmommer]

Thank you very much Bassetmommer.

His phosphorous is at 4.0 mg/dL according to a recent lab test. Is that too high in your opinion that can cause the itch?

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador in reply to Durabase]

We do not diagnose, sorry. But talk to his doctor and here is a link to help explain it all.kidneyfund.org/kidney-disea...

[Durabase in reply to Bassetmommer]

I understand, Thanks for the information.

[orangecity41 NKF Ambassador in reply to Bassetmommer]

Thanks for sharing a good link for low phosphorus foods.

[Mgt8]

Sorry to hear your dad is having this problem. I used to get this too and a good night's sleep is so important to feeling better. The best thing I found was to have a nice warm bath before bedtime. While in the bath I would rub my legs with an abrasive sponge. Then I would pat them dry before applying simple moisturiser. It used to help me sleep better.

If I had it again, I would certainly try Bassetmommer's idea about trying to reduce phosphates in my diet.

Best wishes,

Mgt

[WhenGoodKidneysGoBad]

Sounds like he needs Phosphate binders. Phosphate is found in all dairy/meat products.

If I ate cheese, milk, chicken, etc and forgot to take me phosphate binders, I’d actually itch myself raw with a wire brush. I still have the scars to prove it!

[KidneyCoach NKF Ambassador]

Acceptable levels of phosphorus is generally between 3.5-5.5. Some are more sensitive to higher levels and itching than others. Ive never heard or known of creatinine to cause itching.Has he changed meds or started a new med? New detergent, soaps etc? Since his phosphorus seems in acceptable range it may be necessary to search out other causes to the itching.

Limiting high phosphorus foods like dairy, dried beans (chili, baked beans etc), biscuits, pancakes, Waffles, chocolate, hot dogs, creamed soups, organ meats may alleviate the severity. Blessings

[Durabase in reply to KidneyCoach]

He's on an even stricter diet (I hope) since a couple of months ago as his creatinine level increased further, no red meat, no beans, no sugar, very little salt, little poultry etc. (Instead many pills every day). It's a good point to check if he's changed med. Thanks.

BTW he's found now some relief applying apple cider vinegar to skin. I hope there's no harm in that.