Signs in the hand ‘report’ serious kidney problems

Dr Conor O’Flynn, a doctor at Homerton University Hospital (UK), explains: the kidneys perform several very basic but important functions, mainly filtering waste products from the blood and removing excess water. in the body in the form of urine.

All the blood in the body passes through the kidneys about 40 times a day, filtered by about a million small units called nephrons.

The kidneys are located in the ribcage, but interestingly, its problems can manifest in the hands, according to the journal Best Life (America).

Here are the signs to watch out for and when to see a doctor.

1. Swollen hands

Swollen hands can have many causes. But swollen hands can also be caused by kidney disease Shutterstock

Dr. O’Flynn said, hand swelling can have many causes. But swollen hands can also be caused by kidney disease.

Because the kidneys filter waste products from the blood and make urine, when the kidneys don’t do this well, fluid can build up in the body’s system. This can lead to swelling in the fingers and hands, as well as in the feet and ankles. If you notice swelling in your extremities, especially if other symptoms of kidney disease are present, seek medical attention right away, according to the National Kidney Foundation.

2. Changes on the nails

The kidneys are located in the ribcage, but the interesting thing is that its problems can manifest in the hands Shutterstock

Fingernails and toenails can indicate heart disease, diabetesthyroid disease and even cancer.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AADA), there are several signs of kidney disease that can manifest on the nails. Consists of:

• The top half of the nail is white, and the bottom half of the nail is normal or reddish brown.
• Pale fingernails, and white bands running over the nails, according to Best Life.

This is because the kidneys normally filter out nitrogenous waste. When this is not possible, waste accumulates and causes changes in the surface of the nail.

3. Dry, itchy skin

A surprising sign of kidney disease can be dry, itchy skin, caused by a mineral imbalance. Dry and itchy skin can be a sign of advanced kidney disease, the AADA explains, when the kidneys are no longer able to keep the balance of minerals and nutrients in the blood.

Of course, dry and itchy hands can signal other potential problems. But if dry hands are accompanied by other signs of kidney disease, like frequent urination, a kidney doctor should be consulted.

When the filters in the kidneys fail, it can cause a feeling of needing to urinate, says Dr. O’Flynn. And the urine may be more foamy or even bubbled. That is, there is an increase in protein in the urine. This is a sign of serious kidney disease, according to Best Life.

4. Change skin color

Kidney problems can lead to changes in skin color on the hands and other parts. As the kidneys stop working, the AADA explains, toxins build up in the body. This buildup can cause color changes in the skin. It can be pale, grayish, yellow, or dark in color, as well as thick skin with papules and deep lines. In addition, blisters and cysts may appear Acneafter itchy skin.

If you notice any of the above signs, seek medical attention immediately Best Life.