Stage 3a and skin itch

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!

Thank you! Interesting re phosphates. I’ll study that. My PC doctor is a “script writer”, I’m sure he’d go straight to gabapentin. Would like to avoid that. Increased hydration, warm showers, all ongoing. Thanks for the response and ideas.

One can develop sensitivities through time as well. I also have celiac and collagenous colitis and have become sensitive to perfumes and soaps/moisturizers with added fragrances and chemical, and some food additives. After showering a thicker moisturizer such as Cetaphil helps (also with thin skin). The renal diet is very tricky, but consider keeping a food log in case some things trigger itchy skin, stomach aches, or other. https://kidneycareuk.org/kidney-disease-information/living-with-kidney-disease/managing-symptoms/patient-info-itching-and-chronic-kidney-disease-ckd/.

@godblessed Here is a link to what the National Kidney Foundation has to say about itching: https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/pruritus-itchy-skin

For me, it has been part of the disease process. @kayabbott had some awesome comments and helpful ideas. I agree with hydrating as much as you are allowed, and watching your reaction to certain stressors. Be gentle on yourself, please! Also, I found that sometimes I just itch/scratch out of habit.
Ginger

Depending on whether it is a localised area or whole body I have used otc anti histamine creams, cortisone and if they don’t help then lidocaine may help. Have read advice about using various skin creams. But since I scratch first and think afterwards my first response is localised treatment.

Thank you. This itch started about two weeks ago. I’m hoping it’s just winter dryness/dehydration. I’m hydrating much more and using eucerin after cooler shower. Seems better but we’ll see. I feel you on scratch first and think afterwards. It’s tough.

@godblessed Definitely being inside with heat on can dry your skin out! Maybe trying a moisturizing cleanser for your shower? One thing I found that works is to use a soap impregnated scrub cloth that is sold for campers/elder care in place of a shower, on some days. The brand I use is called Scrubzz disposable rinse free bathing wipes. Very gentle on the skin. Be gentle on yourself!
Ginger

Great idea Ginger on the Scrubzz. Ordered some for myself and our 96year old father (in-law)

My father in law had end stage renal disease. I have bounced between stage 3 & 4 CKD. We have had bad itching. My husband doesn’t have any kidney issues but has very sensitive skin and is treated by a dermatologist. We all found it helpful to use hypoallergenic bath soap, deodorant, laundry detergent (no fragrance or dyes). If the itching gets bad we found that moisturizing creams & lotions help such as Vaseline Intensive Care, Eucerin and Cetaphil. It is good to slather this on after showers especially in the dry heating season. Showers should be warm water, but not too hot (because that is even more drying to the skin.) Good hydration is important for everyone. Kidney patients should confirm with providers how much is necessary (especially if on dialysis).

Thank you for your reply. I’m using Pure Castille Soap from Seven Minerals. Check them out, good company. My itch has been tolerable, hydrating, and using Eucerin w/ 10% urea. Really anxious for my next bloodwork to see if I’m heading in the right direction. Next bloodwork is early February. Wish it was tomorrow. I’m new at this and leaning a lot. Thanks again.