My abdomen swells all the time due to IBD, Chrons,and food allergies. Lupus nephritis causes itching because it causes electrolyte imbalances in our bodies. Also, the kidneys are less able to get rid of build ups of toxins that healthy kidneys process out. You can Google it and see the various stages of kidney disease as well as read a better and more thorough explanation of symptoms and physiology behind it. Depending on what stage you are at- from knowing your labs GFR and Creatinine you should be able to see where you are and things to help decrease problems. Best of luck.