5 Warning Signs of Kidney Dysfunction That Show up on Your Skin- Dermatology Experts Reveal

The dermatology organization describes that end-stage kidney disease can sometimes reveal itself in the form of bleeding skin, sores, leathery skin, or itchy bumps that resemble small, dome-shaped rashes. These raised patches are the result of the kidneys’ inability to properly filter out the wastes from the body.

Kidneys employ millions of coiled tubes called “nephrons,” a blob-like structure called “glomerulus,” and a long, stringy, strawlike tubule to filter out unnecessary toxins and waste fluids from the body. When these fluids are not filtered out efficiently, the body can develop swellings in areas like feet, ankles, hands, legs, or face. Some people can experience lumpy blobs in their lower back, belly, or sides. These blobs could be early signs of kidney cancer.

In cases where these skin conditions become too problematic, a dermatologist pairs with a nephrologist to make life lesser painful for the sufferer of the disease. For those who are unaffected, the National Kidney Foundation suggests some “golden rules” to swat the disease out of your reach. The rules include getting regular kidney check-ups, controlling blood pressure, managing blood sugar, eating a healthy diet, and regular physical exercise. Alcohol and smoking are big no-no. Plus avoid using too many pain-relieving medicines.