If you’re looking for a list of warning signs, here are 23 possible signs that your kidneys may not be working properly. Many of these symptoms can have other causes, so they don’t confirm kidney disease on their own — but persistent or worsening symptoms are worth discussing with a healthcare professional.
23 Signs Your Kidneys Might Be in Trouble
- Changes in urination
- Urinating much more or much less than usual
- Waking up frequently at night to urinate
- Difficulty starting urination
- Foamy or bubbly urine
- May indicate excess protein in the urine, which can happen with kidney damage.
- Blood in the urine
- Pink, red, or cola-colored urine can be a warning sign.
- Swelling (edema)
- Puffiness around the eyes, swollen ankles, feet, hands, or legs can occur when kidneys retain extra fluid.
- Persistent fatigue
- Kidney problems can contribute to anemia and buildup of waste products in the blood.
- Trouble concentrating
- Waste buildup and chemical imbalances may affect mental clarity.
- Shortness of breath
- Fluid buildup or anemia related to kidney disease can contribute to breathing difficulties.
- Loss of appetite
- A buildup of toxins may reduce hunger.
- Nausea or vomiting
- Especially when accompanied by other kidney-related symptoms.
- Metallic taste in the mouth
- Waste buildup can alter taste and cause bad breath.
- Unexplained weight loss
- Can occur with chronic illness, including kidney problems.
- Dry, itchy skin
- Mineral and waste imbalances may cause persistent itching.
- Muscle cramps
- Kidney issues can disturb electrolyte balance.
- Back or side pain
- Kidney infections, stones, or other kidney conditions may cause pain in the flank area.
- High blood pressure
- Damaged kidneys may contribute to hypertension, and high blood pressure can also damage kidneys.
- Puffy eyes, especially in the morning
- Protein loss through urine can sometimes cause facial swelling.
- Feeling cold often
- Kidney-related anemia may make some people feel unusually cold.
- Difficulty sleeping
- Itching, restless legs, and frequent nighttime urination can interfere with sleep.
- Restless legs
- Some people with chronic kidney disease experience uncomfortable leg sensations.
- Changes in skin color
- Advanced kidney disease may cause pale or grayish skin changes.
- Frequent urinary tract infections
- Recurrent infections can affect kidney health.
- Painful urination
- May suggest infection or urinary tract problems that can involve the kidneys.
- A feeling that something is “off”
- General weakness, reduced energy, or feeling unwell can sometimes appear before clearer symptoms.
When to seek medical attention quickly
Seek prompt medical care if you have:
- Blood in your urine
- Severe side/back pain with fever
- Sudden swelling
- Very little or no urine
- Severe shortness of breath
- Confusion or extreme weakness
Kidney problems are often easier to manage when detected early. Tests such as blood creatinine/eGFR and urine albumin/protein tests are commonly used to check kidney function.
