New Delhi: Most people consider itching in feet or hands to be the result of weather, dry skin or allergies. But when this itching persists continuously, there is no rash and the reason is not understood, then it is not a minor problem but can be a sign of some serious disease hidden within. Constant itching, especially in the soles and palms, is sometimes an early symptom of liver weakness or liver disease.

Why does itching occur due to liver damage?

When the liver does not function properly, bile acids and toxins start increasing in the body. These irritate the nerves of the skin, causing deep and persistent itching in the feet and hands. This type of itching is called cholestatic pruritus in medical language. Many times no marks are visible on the skin.

1. Accumulation of bile salts

When the liver becomes weak, bile salts cannot be filtered and get accumulated under the skin. Due to this the nerves get affected and itching starts. However, the intensity of symptoms is different in every patient.

2. Increase in histamine

In many patients, histamine levels are increased, yet antihistamine medicines often do not have any effect on this type of itching, hence it should not be mistaken for a normal allergy.

3. Effect of serotonin

Some experts say that serotonin can increase the intensity of itching by affecting the nervous system. For this reason, itching to liver sometimes persists for a long time.

4. Pregnancy or hormonal changes

Hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy or hormone replacement therapy can also affect bile flow, increasing itching. In such a situation, let us know how you can identify it.

How to recognize that itching is due to liver?

Itching occurs without rash, increases at night, starts from the soles of the hands and feet, and if it persists for more than six weeks, it comes under the category of chronic pruritus. If symptoms like fatigue, loss of appetite, yellowing of eyes or skin (jaundice) are seen along with it, then it is important to immediately consult a doctor.

Easy ways to reduce itching

An easy way to reduce itching is to not scratch the skin again and again, this increases the risk of infection. If itching is more severe at night, then sleep wearing light gloves, take bath with lukewarm or cold water, avoid hot water and use humidifier in the room in cold weather.