The kidneys often don’t cause obvious symptoms until disease is advanced, so many signs of kidney problems are not specific and can also be caused by other conditions. If you notice several of the following—especially if they persist—it’s a good idea to see a healthcare provider.
Here are 23 possible signs that can be associated with kidney problems:
- Changes in urination (more or less often than usual).
- Foamy or bubbly urine, which can indicate excess protein in the urine.
- Blood in the urine.
- Swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, hands, or around the eyes due to fluid retention.
- Persistent fatigue or low energy.
- Difficulty concentrating or “brain fog.”
- Loss of appetite.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Persistent itching, especially when kidney function is significantly reduced.
- Dry skin.
- Muscle cramps, particularly in the legs.
- Puffiness around the eyes, especially in the morning.
- Shortness of breath, which can occur if fluid builds up or anemia develops.
- High blood pressure that’s difficult to control.
- Pain in the back or side (near the kidneys), particularly if caused by infection or stones.
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Metallic taste in the mouth or bad breath.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Feeling unusually cold, which may be related to anemia caused by chronic kidney disease.
- Dark-colored urine or unusually pale urine.
- Frequent nighttime urination.
- Persistent bad breath that isn’t explained by dental problems.
- Chest pain, if fluid accumulates around the heart (this requires urgent medical evaluation).
When to seek urgent care
Seek prompt medical attention if you have:
- Blood in your urine.
- Severe flank pain with fever or vomiting.
- Little or no urine output.
- Significant swelling with shortness of breath.
- Chest pain or severe difficulty breathing.
Who is at higher risk?
You’re at greater risk of kidney disease if you have:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- A family history of kidney disease
- Heart disease
- Older age
- Long-term use of certain pain relievers, such as Ibuprofen or Naproxen
Bottom line
Many of these symptoms have causes other than kidney disease, and early kidney disease often has no symptoms at all. If you have risk factors or persistent symptoms, simple tests—such as a blood test to measure kidney function and a urine test to check for protein or blood—can help identify kidney problems early, when treatment is often most effective.
