What Causes Itchy Skin On The Lower Legs And Hands?

Posted on Mon, 13 Jun 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 13 Jun 2016 Answered on

Fri, 8 Jul 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I have diabetes and my feet fingers and palms of my hands often itch . They itch when have something sweet and they itch when I eat nothing at all. I check my sugar levels when this happens and they are fine. The itch is so intense at times I can't sleep. What could it be and what can I do to calm this.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Phanindra Dulipala (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
The itching could be due to poor blood circulation.

Detailed Answer:
Dear Madam, Thank you for the query.

Itchy skin, particularly in the lower legs,hand extremities can be caused by dryness, poor circulation. Itching skin can also be called pruritus.

The nerve damage caused by diabetes, called diabetic neuropathy, may stop diabetics from sweating. Decreased sweating can lead to dry skin.

Poor blood flow, a common complication of diabetes can contribute to dry and itchy skin.
Diabetic neuropathy not only causes pain but also itching sensation. As you are already on gabapentin, pain subsides.

So, in your case, the most probable cause could either be Neuropathy or poor blood circulation.

The symptom of itching can be relieved by Tb. Cetzine 5mg. But the I suggest you to have a check up for blood circulation. Also, take B12 supplementation.

Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T