Stage 3a and skin itch

Posted by godblessed @godblessed, Dec 25, 2025

Recently diagnosed Stage 3a. Now have horrible skin itching particularly at night. Using Eucerin after shower. Any ideas that can help?

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I have had kidney stones but never diagnosed with kidney disease. I have bad itching and redness in my hands to which I have been to an alergist. Given I now know I have contact dermatitis and cannot use many products. I realize the poisons in our world eg, laundry dryer sheets, dyes, scented candles, many of the cleaning products, etc. I need to stay away from. I can only use certain moisturizers, I use the mildest childrens shampoo and body wash. I do watch my diet- eating alot less meats,more greens and vegies and fruits. I also get violent itching behind my knees and sometimes the rest of my body which seems to come and go. I also drink plenty of water. Not sure if I have a kidney issue but I have alot under control at this time. Very frustrating but keep looking at labels on foods and stay diligent on your search.

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Thank you. Regrettably our products are full of irritants. We try but it’s almost impossible to remove all. Thanks again for your input.

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My 45 year old daughter received a kidney in 2023, but it failed. Afterwards she suffered a stroke, which debilitated her physically, but emotionally she is the strongest human I’ve ever known. She has been on bedside dialysis in a SNF since discharge from the hospital. Before the dialysis was “dialed in” correctly at the SNF, she went through a period where she was unbearably itchy. We found that CeraVe Itch-Relief Moisturizing Lotion helped. The stores don’t always carry it so we’ve ordered it online. Her skin improved and we still keep it on hand.

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Thank you for the recommendation. I was able to find this CeraVe at our small town Tennessee Walgreens. I was surprised. Prayers for your daughter and thanks again.

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Profile picture for gwladj76 @gwladj76

Things I've observed and tried.
1) Seems like I have more itching (I'm 3b), if my food intake is a little higher in added phosphates, too much protein. Someone in another post suggested it was the phosphates. So, I back off on my protein for a couple of days - maybe 35 grams/day, instead of 50. Same with foods that contain natural, since I try to avoid added phosphates (it's tough, everyone adds it). It seems to clear up in a couple days.
2) Plenty of water to drink
3) Eucerin does help some.
4) See a dermatologist, they can provide some advice and likely prescription items.
5) My primary advised for me, ONLY IF, the itching is very intense, taking an antihistamine, Zyrtec for example. BUT at half the dose, don't want to stress the kidneys. And, only take it for a maximum of 3 days. So, I cut the 10 mg in half. I've also found topical antihistamines which usually contain the ingredient found in Benadryl (diphenhydramine). You can apply it locally to the skin. Although, I've found the itching often jumps around intensely. First the ankle, then the arm, then a leg, now the scalp. The topical doesn't help much in that situation. So, when it's that bad, I'll have to take a half dose of Zyrtec.
6) Cooler water temperature for showers, tough to do on a cold winter morning when you want that warmth.

That's about all that works for me. Each person is different, so talking with a primary care doctor is a good place to start. Hope you find this helpful. Good luck!

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@g. 6 have you tried singular

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