Kidney disease often develops gradually, and many people have no symptoms in the early stages. However, the following signs can sometimes indicate a kidney problem:
- Swelling of the feet, ankles, or hands
- Puffiness around the eyes
- Changes in urination (more or less frequent, especially at night)
- Foamy or bubbly urine
- Blood in the urine
- Persistent fatigue or weakness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Persistent itching
- Dry skin
- Muscle cramps
- High blood pressure that is difficult to control
- Shortness of breath (from fluid buildup or anemia)
- Bad breath or a metallic taste in the mouth
- Trouble sleeping
- Pain in the side or lower back (more common with kidney stones or infections)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Swelling or stiffness in the joints
- Pale skin (from anemia)
- Feeling unusually cold
- Headaches
- Persistent nausea or general feeling of being unwell
These symptoms are not specific to kidney disease and can have many other causes. The only way to know if your kidneys are functioning properly is through medical evaluation, which may include:
- Blood tests (such as creatinine to estimate kidney function)
- Urine tests (to check for protein or blood)
- Blood pressure measurement
- Imaging studies if needed
Seek prompt medical attention if you have blood in your urine, severe flank pain, a high fever with urinary symptoms, sudden swelling, or a marked decrease in urine output. Early detection and treatment of kidney disease can help slow or prevent further damage.
