Kidney disease often develops gradually, and many people have no symptoms until it is advanced. While no symptom alone proves kidney failure, these are some signs that can be associated with declining kidney function:
- Persistent fatigue or weakness due to anemia or waste buildup.
- Swelling (edema) in the feet, ankles, legs, hands, or around the eyes from fluid retention.
- Changes in urination, such as urinating more or less than usual, especially at night.
- Foamy or bubbly urine, which can indicate excess protein in the urine.
- Blood in the urine, making it appear pink, red, or cola-colored.
- Persistent itching caused by waste products accumulating in the bloodstream.
- Loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting, especially if ongoing.
- Muscle cramps, particularly in the legs, due to electrolyte imbalances.
- Shortness of breath, which may result from fluid buildup in the lungs or anemia.
- Difficulty concentrating or confusion, which can occur if waste products build up in the blood.
These symptoms can have many causes besides kidney disease, and some people with kidney disease have no symptoms at all. The only reliable way to assess kidney function is through medical evaluation, including blood tests (such as creatinine to estimate eGFR), urine tests (to check for protein or blood), and sometimes imaging.
If someone has symptoms like severe shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, or is producing very little or no urine, they should seek urgent medical care. Early detection of kidney disease often allows treatments that can slow its progression.
