Kidney disease occurs when the kidneys are damaged and cannot filter blood properly, leading to a buildup of waste and fluid in the body. It can be acute (sudden and short-term) or chronic (gradual and long-term). Chronic kidney disease can progress to kidney failure, which is often irreversible.

Although difficult to detect in the early stages, kidney disease may manifest through five signs on the face and neck, though these symptoms are not exclusive to kidney issues.

Facial swelling. Swelling, especially facial edema, is one of the earliest signs of kidney disease. When the kidneys aren't functioning efficiently, the body retains excess fluid, causing swelling around the eyes and cheeks. This is often more noticeable in the morning. The skin becomes taut and loses its natural elasticity.

Besides the face, swelling can also affect the hands, feet, and ankles. Experts recommend seeking immediate medical attention for kidney function tests if you notice unusual facial swelling that doesn't subside on its own.

Pale, grayish, or yellowish skin. Kidney damage not only impacts overall health but also significantly affects appearance, especially the skin on the face and neck.

When kidneys weaken, accumulated toxins cause the facial skin to change color, from a healthy complexion to a grayish or yellowish hue, diminishing vibrancy. This change is often easily noticeable.

Because the kidneys cannot effectively eliminate waste and maintain nutritional balance, the skin becomes dry, flaky, or rough.

These unusual skin patches and gradual discoloration are warning signs, especially in those with pre-existing kidney conditions.

Illustration of kidney failure. Image: Preferred Vascular Group

Illustration of kidney failure. Image: Preferred Vascular Group

Itching and redness. Patients with end-stage chronic kidney disease often experience severe itching, especially as the disease progresses. This condition, medically known as "renal itch," primarily affects the face and neck, causing significant irritation and discomfort.

Constant scratching to relieve itching often leads to red spots, small pimples, rashes, and even sores or scratches. Untreated, these can become infected or painful.

The root cause lies in the kidneys' inability to remove waste and minerals, causing them to accumulate and stimulate nerve endings in the skin.

Experts warn that persistent itching on the face and neck accompanied by red spots warrants immediate medical attention, as it may indicate serious kidney problems.

Dark circles under the eyes. Dark circles under the eyes are not just a sign of fatigue; they can also signal kidney issues. Weakened kidneys lead to waste buildup and fluid retention, causing the thin skin around the eyes to swell and darken. These dark circles, sometimes resembling bruises, are often accompanied by puffiness.

While not all dark circles are related to kidney disease, experts advise prompt kidney health checks if this symptom appears suddenly or worsens, accompanied by swelling, fatigue, or other unusual signs.

Swollen neck veins. As kidney disease progresses, fluid buildup causes swelling and severely impacts neck veins. When kidney and heart function decline, neck veins dilate and become prominent, especially when lying down or straining muscles.

This occurs due to increased blood pressure from excess fluid. Swollen or bulging veins on one side of the neck are easily noticeable.

Experts emphasize that any abnormality, such as swollen neck veins, requires urgent medical evaluation, as it may indicate a serious fluid imbalance and weakened organ function.

My Y (From Times of India)