6 signs that the kidneys are 'crying for help' are often seen on the hands but few people pay attention

Dry and itchy skin

Skin can become so dry that it feels rough and scaly, tight and cracked, or has a scaly appearance. Extremely dry skin is common in people with end-stage kidney disease.

Severe itching is a common symptom of end-stage kidney disease. The itching can range from annoying to constant.

Some people experience itching in one area of the skin. The itching can also spread to most of the body, especially the hands, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association.

Illustration: AI

Skin discoloration due to poor kidney function

When the kidneys are not working properly, toxins build up in the body. This buildup can cause changes in skin color. The person may notice pale, grayish, or yellowish skin; dark patches may appear on the hands.

Change nails

Kidney disease can affect the appearance of fingernails, toenails, or both. People with advanced kidney disease may have white on the top of one or more nails and a normal to reddish-brown color on the bottom, a condition called “half-and-half nails.”

Swelling in the hands

The kidneys are responsible for removing excess fluid and salt from the body. When the kidneys can no longer do this, fluid and salt build up in the body. This causes swelling, which can occur in the legs, ankles, feet, or hands.

Rash

When the kidneys are unable to remove waste from the body, a rash can appear. End-stage renal disease often causes a rash in the form of small, dome-shaped, extremely itchy bumps. As these bumps disappear, new bumps may form. Sometimes, the small bumps join together to form rough, raised patches.

Subcutaneous calcium deposits

One of the functions of the kidneys is to balance minerals in the blood. When the kidneys are unable to maintain a healthy balance, calcium levels can become high, which can cause calcium deposits under the skin. Half-and-half nails are also a sign of this condition.

Calcium deposits usually form around joints and are painless. However, when they appear on the fingertips, they can be very painful, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association.