Khaberni - Some simple physical symptoms may be seen as transient conditions that do not warrant concern, however, their persistence or repetition may be an indicator of deeper health disorders that require attention and medical follow-up.
Occasional skin itching is common and is often due to simple and non-serious causes such as dry skin, cold, or insect bites. However, if the itching persists for a long period or recurs without a clear reason, it may indicate an underlying health condition.
Medical sources, including the Healthline website, suggest that the feet may be one of the areas most susceptible to this type of itching, and that it may be linked to several diseases, most notably diabetes, kidney diseases, and liver disorders.
Diabetes
Medical sources, such as Diabetes.co.uk, indicate that itching in the feet, legs, and ankles is a common symptom among diabetes patients. Itching may occur due to elevated blood sugar levels over long periods or due to complications of the disease such as nerve damage or affected kidney functions.
Itching is often accompanied by other symptoms, including:
Severe thirst.
Frequent urination, especially at night.
Severe fatigue.
Weight and muscle mass loss.
Frequent fungal infections or genital area itching.
Vision disturbances.
Liver Diseases
Itching can also be one of the symptoms of liver diseases, whether resulting from fat accumulation, excessive alcohol intake, or other causes affecting its function.
Medical institutions clarify that liver-related itching may appear anywhere on the body, but it is more common on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet, and may increase in severity at night or with heat or after showering with hot water.
Other potential signs of liver diseases include:
Persistent fatigue and weakness.
Loss of appetite.
Weight loss.
Nausea or vomiting.
Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice).
Decreased sexual desire.
Kidney Diseases
Medical institutions, including the Kidney Care UK, state that itching is common among kidney disease patients, especially in advanced stages of the disease or among those undergoing dialysis.
The itching may increase with the deterioration of kidney functions, or due to factors such as skin dryness, high temperatures, or inadequate dialysis sessions.
Kidney diseases typically accompany other symptoms, such as:
Swelling of the feet, hands, or ankles.
General fatigue.
Shortness of breath.
Loss of appetite or weight.
Changes in urination, especially at night.
Presence of blood in the urine.
Sleep disturbances and muscle cramps.
Persistent headaches.
When to consult a doctor?
If the itching in the feet persists for a long period without a clear reason, or is accompanied by any of the aforementioned symptoms, it is advisable to consult a doctor for a thorough evaluation of the condition and to accurately determine the cause.
