6. Swelling in Hands, Feet, or Ankles
Have your shoes felt tighter lately? Or do your rings suddenly feel snug? That puffiness might not just be water retention from a salty meal.
Kidneys help balance sodium and water in your body. When that balance falters, your tissues absorb the excess. This swelling — called edema — often starts subtly, then gradually becomes more visible.
Still, the story isn’t just about appearance. The next sign affects not how you look — but how your skin feels.
5. Unusual Dryness or Flaking
Dry skin can happen to anyone. But when it becomes constant, itchy, or feels “paper thin,” it might signal more than aging.
Healthy kidneys help maintain the right balance of minerals and nutrients. When that system falters, your skin may lose natural oils and moisture, leading to persistent dryness or cracking — even when you hydrate well.
