They caution that itchy feet can be linked to several medical conditions, including diabetes, kidney disease, and liver disorders.

Liver disease

Liver disease—whether caused by excessive alcohol use or fat accumulation in the liver—is a serious condition that can become life-threatening without treatment. The Liver Foundation lists itching as a key warning sign.

Itching related to liver disease can occur anywhere on the body but is most commonly felt on the arms and legs, or on the palms and soles of the feet. The intensity can range from mild irritation to severe, exhausting discomfort.

Unlike allergic reactions or insect bites, liver-related itching usually appears without a rash. Persistent scratching, however, can damage the skin. As the disease progresses, the itching often becomes worse and may intensify at night, in warm environments, after hot baths, or when wearing certain fabrics.

Although the exact cause isn’t fully understood, liver-related itching has been associated with a buildup of bile salts in the blood and changes in substances such as histamine, serotonin, hormones, and alkaline phosphatase.

Other symptoms of liver disease may include:

Ongoing fatigue and weakness

Loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss

Reduced sex drive

Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

Nausea or vomiting

Diabetes

Diabetes specialists note that itching affecting the feet, ankles, and legs is common among people with diabetes. Itchy skin can be an early sign of the condition, particularly when other symptoms are present.

Prolonged high blood sugar levels can dry out the skin and lead to irritation. In some cases, itching may result from diabetes-related complications such as nerve damage or kidney problems.

Common warning signs of diabetes include:

Excessive thirst

Frequent urination, especially at night

Extreme tiredness

 

Genital itching or recurring thrush

Blurred or impaired vision

Kidney disease

Itching is also very common in people with kidney disease. Kidney Care UK reports that around half of those with advanced kidney disease experience persistent itching, and it affects nearly all patients undergoing dialysis or conservative kidney failure treatment.

As kidney function worsens, itching often becomes more severe. Factors that can trigger or intensify symptoms include dry skin, heat, inadequate dialysis, and high calcium levels in the blood.

Additional signs of kidney disease may include:

Unexplained weight loss and poor appetite

Swelling in the feet, ankles, hands, or face due to fluid retention

Shortness of breath

Fatigue

Blood in the urine

Increased nighttime urination

Trouble sleeping

Muscle cramps

 

Frequent headaches

Sexual dysfunction in men

If you experience persistent itching along with any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak with your GP for proper evaluation and care.