Prepared by: Tabarak Ahmed Turki Al-Azzawi<br /><br />Introduction:<br />Hemodialysis is a life-saving procedure for patients with kidney failure, as it helps remove toxins, waste products, and excess fluids that the kidneys can no longer eliminate. Despite its effectiveness, it has several side effects on the body. One of the most common and troubling complications is skin-related changes, which can significantly affect patients’ physical and psychological quality of life.<br /><br />How Does Hemodialysis Affect the Skin?<br /><br />The skin-related effects of hemodialysis vary in severity from one patient to another. The most common effects include:<br /> 1. Itching (Pruritus):<br />Itching is one of the most common issues among dialysis patients. It can be generalized or localized to specific areas.<br />Possible causes include:<br />• Accumulation of phosphorus in the blood<br />• Dry skin<br />• High levels of certain chemicals like parathyroid hormone<br />• Allergic reactions to dialysis equipment or medications<br /> 2. Dry and Cracked Skin:<br />Many dialysis patients suffer from dry, rough, and easily cracked skin.<br />Causes include:<br />• Loss of moisture due to frequent dialysis<br />• Decreased sweating as a result of kidney dysfunction<br />• Limited fluid intake<br /> 3. Skin Discoloration:<br />Patients may notice a change in skin tone, which may turn yellowish or grayish-brown.<br />Causes include:<br />• Accumulation of a pigment called urochrome due to kidney failure<br />• Buildup of iron or blood byproducts<br />• Repeated exposure to dialysis<br /> 4. Spots or Skin Rash:<br />Some patients may develop spots, blisters, or rashes, which can be caused by:<br />• Allergic reactions to medications or dialysis materials<br />• Weakened immune system<br />• Skin infections due to frequent injections or poor blood circulation<br /> 5. Brittle Nails and Hair Loss:<br />Due to nutritional changes and deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, patients may experience:<br />• Weak, brittle nails<br />• Hair loss or changes in hair texture<br /><br />How to Manage These Skin Conditions?<br /><br />To cope with these skin changes and improve the patient’s quality of life, the following recommendations are advised:<br /> 1. Regularly moisturize the skin using fragrance-free medical creams or oils.<br /> 2. Follow a proper kidney-friendly diet under the supervision of a specialist.<br /> 3. Control blood phosphorus levels through diet and medication.<br /> 4. Avoid using harsh soaps or skin irritants.<br /> 5. Bathe with lukewarm water and avoid hot water, which can worsen dryness.<br /> 6. Consult a dermatologist if unusual symptoms such as severe itching or skin lesions appear.<br /> 7. Maintain good personal hygiene to prevent skin infections, especially around catheter or injection sites.<br /><br />Conclusion:<br /><br />While hemodialysis is a vital procedure for kidney failure patients, its side effects—especially those affecting the skin—can be burdensome. However, with proper care, regular medical follow-up, and daily skin hygiene, many of these symptoms can be significantly alleviated. Patients should never hesitate to discuss any skin-related issues with their healthcare team, as early diagnosis and timely intervention can make a real difference in comfort and quality of <br />life.<br /><br /><br />Al-Mustaqbal University ، The First University in Iraq.