Liver disease refers to a range of diseases that can cause dysfunction and damage to the liver.
Itching as a symptom found in liver disease is referred to as pruritus.
The link is said to involvepruritogens,which are substances associated with itchiness, and thenervous system.
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The exact link between liver disease and itching remains unclear.
Additional symptoms may include skin irritation,redness, and infection due to excessive scratching.
Your healthcare provider will consider your entire medical history before discussing possible treatments.
Itchiness associated with liver disease is unlikely to improve on its own.
It can get worse and start having an impact on your everyday life.
Itching and Liver Disease Stages
Itching may or may not occur during any stage of liver disease.
Summary
Some people with liver disease will experience itchy skin, and others will not.
What can begin as a minor annoyance can develop into worsening symptoms without treatment.
Many treatment options can help reduce symptoms and prevent skin damage or infection from excessive scratching.
Itchiness is common in people with certain types of liver disease.
This does not mean everyone with liver disease will experience itch.
American Liver Foundation.The stages of liver disease.
Bhalerao A, Mannu GS.Management of pruritus in chronic liver disease.Dermatology Research and Practice.2015 Mar.2015:e295891.
American Academy of Dermatology.10 reasons your skin itches uncontrollably and how to get relief.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Common characteristics of liver disease.
