His doctor began investigating whether the problem came from the skin itself or from something happening elsewhere in the body. Persistent itching can have many causes, so the examination included a review of his medical history, medications, skin condition, and blood tests.
One possibility was liver disease. The liver performs essential functions, including processing nutrients and removing waste. When its function becomes impaired, certain substances can accumulate in the bloodstream and contribute to intense itching. In some cases, this symptom appears before more familiar signs such as jaundice or abdominal discomfort.
Kidney disease was another possibility. Healthy kidneys filter waste from the blood and maintain the body’s balance of fluids and minerals. When kidney function declines, accumulated waste products and other changes can contribute to persistent itching. Fatigue, muscle cramps, changes in urination, and difficulty concentrating may also occur.
