Itching

[ntsgls11]

Newly CKD diagnosed. eGFR was 34.After stopping most meds my GFR is up to 53. But this week my ankles are a bit swollen & my lower legs are maddeningly itchy. I also have intermittent tingling around my mouth with slight puffiness of my lips. I haven't seen discussion of these symptoms. I also have heart disease and the 2 diabetes. See my nephrologist in a week, but would like to hear from you first. Any itching relief suggestions?

[WinJ3]

Sorry to hear about what you are going through. This is a link to some of the post related to itching:

healthunlocked.com/nkf-ckd/...

[ntsgls11 in reply to WinJ3]

Thank you.

[Blackknight1989]

Here is an additional link to a webinar by AKF. You can download the slides.

kidneyfund.org/training/web...

[ntsgls11 in reply to Blackknight1989]

Thank you.

[alport45]

I have itching around my ankles and my PD nurse says it's because of the swelling of my ankles. I use Gold Bond skin cream which is very heavy and does help me. My nephrologist said not to worry too much about it because it's all over itching that is more concerning.

[ntsgls11 in reply to alport45]

Thanks for reply.

[RhenDutchess123]

Ankles swelling can be symptoms of many diseases not just CKD...My Nephologist always has me cut back on fluids a bit and to keep feet elevated higher than my heart while sitting....it also helps to walk more and to apply cool compresses ...Do not wear tight fitting socks...if they leave a mark then they are too tight...be aware of your salt intake...You also mentioned that you quit many of your medications., were any of them a diuretic?

[ntsgls11 in reply to RhenDutchess123]

Actually yes. One of my BP meds was a diuretic. My NEW primary Dr stopped all my BP meds until nephrologist designs new treatment protocols. Cardiologist is aware. Former Dr was over-medicating me. BP in the 90/60 range & Ibuprofen 800mg 3xday for back pain and Metformen for T2 diabetes. He was slowly killing me. 2nd Appt w nephrologist in 3 days for lab & ultrasound results. I'm so overwhelmed I'm not sure I care any more.

[Sophiebun11 in reply to ntsgls11]

Sorry to hear you say that. Please don't stop caring. I know we all have days when we are frustrated and scared, but keeping a positive attitude is half the battle. Take a bad day and then try to see things more brightly tomorrow. Hopefully you have a good support system of family and friends, and I've found this forum to be a great source of support.

I too have low BP 78/50 most days. I hope your Neph. and Cardiologist can work together to get you on a drug regime which will help you feel better and stop damaging your kidneys.

A lot of us here have bad stories about how our primary Dr. had us on meds that damaged our kidneys over the years.

This disease is overwhelming on top of having the other health issues you are dealing with. I wish you the best.

[ntsgls11 in reply to Sophiebun11]

Thanks so much. I realize I do need support to remain positive, but I find it very hard to ask. I tend to isolate instead. I'm hoping my 2nd nephrology visit will bring me a plan and understanding of my situation.

[Sophiebun11 in reply to ntsgls11]

I do understand. My mother used to tell me I was the hardest person in the world to help because I never would ask for help or express what I needed. I am getting better at reaching out. I have always been better at helping than at accepting help as most people are. I think we all need to work on doing both. Best of luck with your new Neph. I hope you get a treatment plan that makes you feel hopeful about your health.

[RhenDutchess123 in reply to ntsgls11]

Having removed the diuretic may be causing some of your ankles swelling..My Neph took me off of them too and I retained water for a little while until my body re-adjusted...Keep us posted...we care...

[ismike1316 in reply to RhenDutchess123]

My nephrologist changed my diuretic to PRN. That has been working.

[Sophiebun11]

Hi ntsgls11, I have the itching too. Some on my lower legs, mostly on my arms and even the back of my neck and head. I feel like a dog with fleas sometimes 🐕‍🦺

I got to the point where I had literally scratched the skin on my arms until I was bleeding and looked like I'd been attacked by a wild animal.

I started making sure not to use hot water in the shower as that dries the skin and makes me even more itchy. Then I started slathering myself with Vaseline. I have always had super tight facial skin from my autoimmune disease so used Vaseline there. Now I use it all over.

If you dampen your lower legs with water before applying a moisturizer it will absorb better and give you more relief. I am trying moisturizing and mind over matter.

Tingling can be neuritis, I'd speak to whomever treats your T2D.

Good luck with the itching it can be frustrating. I have Stage 4 and am new here myself. Welcome and congrats on the increase in your eGFR.

🐇

[ntsgls11 in reply to Sophiebun11]

Really appreciate the "itchy" skin advice. Scratched my ankle until I noticed blood! I will experiment with creams and cool packs.