Kidney disease and medication can have an effect on your appearance. Here are some common symptoms along with causes and treatments you can discuss with your doctor. Simple home remedies may also provide a temporary fix.
Recommendations, statements, and advice contained in this infographic are for information only. You should not use the information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without first consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult with your healthcare provider about any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition, over-the-counter treatment, or dietary regimen
BRUISES OR BLOOD CLOTS
What can cause it: Defects in platelets; thin skin from medications like prednisone,
heparin, or baby aspirin
What can help: Check clotting; blood thinning agents; vitamins
Also Try: Body makeup; creams; gloves and/or long-sleeved shirts; elevation; hot/cold therapies
PALE SKIN
What can cause it: Anemia
What can help: Check anemia lab values; increase dialysis; add vitamins/supplements
Also Try: Moisturizer; bronzer or tanning cream
DRY AND ITCHY SKIN
What can cause it: High phosphorus; secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT); inadequate fluid removal
What can help: Adhere to prescribed phosphorus, fluid, and sodium allowances
Also Try: Moisturizer; corticosteroids; antihistamines
RASH
What can cause it: Allergies; abnormal phosphorus, calcium, or secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) levels
What can help: Check medications; take phosphate binders and manage renal diet as directed; keep phosphorus, calcium, and SHPT levels within range
Also Try: Creams; cold compress; natural remedies (oatmeal, tea tree oil,
aloe vera)
AMMONIA BREATH
What can cause it: Dehydration; inadequate treatment; too much protein
What can help: Adjust diet; more treatment
Also Try: Drink more water; brush and floss teeth and gums regularly; use mouthwash and mouth rinse for dry mouth
SWELLING OF FACE AND APPENDAGES
What can cause it: Fluid retention; medication side effects
What can help: Alternative medications; reduce fluid intake; change treatment regimen; adhere to dietary sodium requirements
Also Try: Wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes; use support stockings for legs if necessary
DARK UNDER-EYE CIRCLES OR BLOODSHOT EYES
What can cause it: Medication side effects; high phosphorus; disturbed sleep
schedule for various reasons
What can help: Manage phosphorus levels; determine why sleep habits changed
Also Try: Concealer; eye drops; limit sun exposure; meditate; limit screen time and caffeine; exercise; tea bags, cold compress, etc.
HAIR LOSS AND WEAK NAILS
What can cause it: Malnutrition; medication side effects; frequent surgeries; lying in bed
What can help: Ask your doctor about changing medications or diet; also ask about supplement options
Also try: Biotin shampoo and/or supplements; short haircut; silk pillowcase; nail strengthener
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