10 signs your kidneys might be in trouble

Your kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste, balancing fluids, and maintaining overall health. However, kidney disease often develops without noticeable symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage. Recognizing the warning signs early can help prevent severe complications.

Here are 10 signs that could indicate kidney disease:

1. Fatigue and low energy

When your kidneys don’t function properly, toxins build up in your blood, leading to constant tiredness, weakness, and trouble concentrating. Many people with kidney disease also develop anemia, which can worsen fatigue.

2. Trouble sleeping

A buildup of waste in the blood can make it difficult to fall and stay asleep. Additionally, kidney disease is linked to sleep apnea, a condition that disrupts breathing during sleep, leading to poor rest.

3. Dry, itchy skin

Healthy kidneys balance minerals and nutrients in the body. When they struggle to do their job, imbalances can cause dry, itchy skin, which may indicate a bone and mineral disorder related to kidney disease.

4. Frequent urination

Feeling the need to urinate more often, especially at night, can be an early sign of kidney disease. Damaged kidney filters may increase urine production, leading to frequent trips to the bathroom.

5. Blood in urine

Healthy kidneys keep essential blood cells in the body while filtering out waste. If you notice blood in your urine, it could indicate kidney disease, infections, or kidney stones. This symptom should never be ignored.

6. Foamy urine

Excess bubbles or foam in urine, similar to what you see when scrambling eggs, may indicate protein leakage. This is a sign that your kidneys aren’t filtering properly.

7. Swelling in the feet and ankles

When kidneys don’t remove excess sodium efficiently, fluid retention can occur, leading to swelling in the feet, ankles, and even hands. This is a common symptom of kidney disease.

8. Poor appetite

A loss of appetite may seem minor, but it can be an early sign of kidney disease due to the buildup of toxins in the body. Nausea and an altered sense of taste often accompany this symptom.

9. Muscle cramps

Electrolyte imbalances caused by kidney dysfunction can lead to muscle cramps. Low calcium and imbalanced phosphorus levels may contribute to this uncomfortable condition.

10. Puffiness around the eyes

Persistent puffiness around the eyes can indicate protein leakage in urine, which suggests kidney damage. This may be one of the earliest signs of kidney disease.

When to see a doctor

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially more than one at a time, consult a healthcare professional. Early detection can prevent further damage and improve your overall health.

Maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and managing conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes can help protect your kidneys in the long run.