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Suspense crime, Digital Desk : Pregnancy brings a host of new and sometimes strange physical changes, and for many women, itchy feet can be one of them. While this is often a harmless and common symptom, it's important to understand the cause, as in rare cases, it can signal a more serious health condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Here’s a guide to help you understand what might be causing the itch and when you should talk to your doctor.

Why Your Feet Might Itch: The Normal Reasons                                                                                                                         

In most cases, itchy feet during pregnancy are caused by normal physiological changes your body is going through.

  1. Stretching Skin: As you gain weight and your body retains more fluid, the skin on your feet can stretch, leading to dryness and itchiness.
  2. Hormonal Changes: Fluctuating hormones, especially an increase in estrogen, can contribute to itching.
  3. Mild Edema (Swelling): It's common for feet and ankles to swell during pregnancy. This can put pressure on the skin and nerves, causing an itchy sensation.

These common causes are usually more of an annoyance than a health risk and can often be managed with moisturizers and by elevating your feet.

The Red Flag: When to Be Concerned About Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP)                                                                                                  

While most itching is normal, it can sometimes be a symptom of a serious liver condition called Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP). ICP is a condition that impairs the flow of bile (a digestive fluid) from the liver. This causes bile acids to build up in your blood, which can be harmful to your baby.

It is crucial to be aware of the specific symptoms of ICP:                                                                                                                            

  1. Intense Itching: The itching is severe and often worse at night.
  2. Location Matters: While it can be all over, the itching is most prominent on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet.
  3. No Rash: The itching typically occurs without a visible rash.
  4. Other Warning Signs: The itching may be accompanied by other symptoms like:

 

  1. Dark-colored urine          
  2. Pale or light-colored stools
  3. Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
  4. Loss of appetite or nausea

When Should You Call Your Doctor?                                                                                                                                                   

Do not dismiss persistent or severe itching. You should contact your doctor or midwife immediately if:

  1. The itching is intense and disrupts your sleep.
  2. The itching is primarily on your palms and soles.
  3. You experience any of the other associated symptoms of ICP, such as changes in your urine or stool color.

While most cases of itchy feet are benign, it is always better to be cautious. Your doctor can perform a simple blood test to check your liver function and bile acid levels to rule out or diagnose ICP. Early diagnosis and management of ICP are vital for ensuring the health and safety of both you and your baby.


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