Early kidney disease may present with few or no noticeable symptoms, but certain signs can manifest in the hands and feet. Recognizing these signs allows for timely medical intervention and treatment before the disease progresses.

Swelling in hands and feet: When kidneys malfunction, the body struggles to eliminate excess fluid. This fluid retention causes swelling, also known as edema. Noticeable swelling may occur in the hands, feet, ankles, and lower legs. The swollen areas might feel uncomfortable, tight, and retain an indentation when pressed. This swelling can worsen and spread to the eyes and face. Edema is most prominent upon waking or after prolonged sitting or standing. Consult a doctor for kidney function tests if you experience unusual swelling in your hands or feet without a clear cause. Swollen extremities can hinder movement and cause joint stiffness. Noting when the swelling occurs helps doctors diagnose the condition.

Dry, itchy skin and rashes: Kidneys remove waste products from the body, so kidney problems can lead to changes in the skin of the hands and feet. Skin may become dry, itchy, and develop rashes. Pale patches or discoloration can appear due to poor blood circulation and mineral buildup. Individuals with chronic kidney disease often have yellow-brown skin. These changes typically make the skin rough or scaly. Medical treatment combined with proper skin care can alleviate these symptoms.

Muscle cramps, spasms, and weakness: Kidneys maintain mineral balance by regulating potassium, calcium, and sodium levels. Kidney damage disrupts this balance, leading to cramps, spasms, and muscle weakness, primarily affecting the legs. The combination of muscle problems with numbness and tingling in the hands and feet (a pins-and-needles sensation) often occurs in patients with these conditions. Severe cramp pain frequently occurs at night. Muscle symptoms stemming from electrolyte imbalances often originate from kidney-related problems.

Cramps cause sudden muscle pain, briefly reducing the ability to control or move the affected muscle. Photo: Runner's World

White tips on nails: Kidney disease causes noticeable changes in fingernails and toenails. A white discoloration may appear on the upper part of the nails, while the lower part retains its natural reddish-brown color. White bands and pale nails are some changes patients might experience. Poor kidney health also affects blood circulation and nutrient levels, contributing to these changes. Abnormal nails can indicate anemia, common in people with kidney disease.

Cold, numb, and tingling fingers and toes: Reduced kidney function leads to poor blood circulation. Consequently, fingers and toes can become cold, numb, and tingly. Seek medical attention for any unusual or persistent sensations, as these could signal kidney-related nerve damage. Decreased blood flow causes pain and limits the ability to perform daily tasks.

Persistent itching in hands and feet: Waste buildup in the blood, caused by impaired kidney filtration, leads to this condition. When itching in the hands and feet disrupts sleep and daily activities, it's a serious sign requiring urgent medical care.

My Y (Times of India)