If you’re referring to the headline “23 Strange Signs Your Kidneys Might Be in Trouble,” the idea has some truth but is often exaggerated. Kidney problems can sometimes develop quietly, and symptoms may be subtle. However, these signs are not proof of kidney disease on their own and can have many other causes.
Possible signs that may occur with kidney problems include:
- Changes in urination (more or less frequent than usual)
- Urinating more often at night
- Foamy or bubbly urine (which can suggest protein leakage)
- Blood in the urine
- Swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, hands, or around the eyes
- Persistent fatigue or weakness
- Trouble concentrating or feeling mentally “foggy”
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight changes
- Dry, itchy skin
- Muscle cramps
- Shortness of breath (from fluid buildup or anemia)
- High blood pressure that is difficult to control
- Back or side pain (especially with certain kidney conditions)
- Changes in urine color or odor
- Sleep problems
- Feeling unusually cold (sometimes related to anemia)
- Bad breath or a metallic taste in the mouth
- Headaches or dizziness
- Reduced exercise tolerance
- Persistent puffiness or fluid retention
- General feeling of being unwell
Many people with early kidney disease have few or no symptoms, which is why testing is important for people at higher risk, including those with diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of kidney disease, or certain medication exposures.
If you notice blood in your urine, sudden swelling, severe flank pain, a major change in urination, or symptoms that are new and persistent, it’s worth discussing with a healthcare professional. A simple blood test (kidney function tests) and urine test can help assess kidney health.
