10 Symptoms of Kidney Disease
An estimated 35.5 million U.S. adults are living with kidney disease, yet most remain unaware of it. This silent ailment often goes undetected until it progresses to severe stages, with only about 10% of chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients knowing they are affected.
“There are several physical symptoms of kidney disease, but people sometimes mistake them for other health issues,” explains Dr. Joseph Vassalotti, Chief Medical Officer at the National Kidney Foundation (NKF). Many with kidney disease do not notice any symptoms until the kidneys are on the verge of failure or when there is significant protein present in the urine.
While the only definitive way to detect kidney disease is through testing, recognizing early warning signs can make a significant difference. Here are 10 symptoms that could signal kidney disease:
- Fatigue and Difficulty Concentrating
Reduced kidney function can lead to a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream, causing weakness, fatigue, and impaired concentration. Anemia, a common kidney disease complication, can also contribute to these feelings. - Trouble Sleeping
When kidneys aren’t filtering properly, toxins remain in the bloodstream, potentially disturbing sleep. Kidney disease has also been linked to sleep apnea, especially among those with obesity. - Dry and Itchy Skin
Healthy kidneys balance minerals and nutrients in the body. When this balance is disrupted, dry and itchy skin may result, a common sign of mineral and bone disease associated with advanced kidney dysfunction. - Frequent Urination
If you experience an increased need to urinate, especially at night, it could indicate kidney disease. Damaged kidney filters can lead to frequent urination, though this symptom can also result from urinary infections or an enlarged prostate in men. - Blood in Urine
Healthy kidneys typically keep blood cells out of urine, but when kidney filters are damaged, blood may “leak” into the urine. This symptom may also point to tumors, kidney stones, or infections. - Foamy Urine
Excessive bubbles in the urine that persist after flushing may indicate protein leakage from the kidneys, which can occur due to albumin, the same protein found in eggs. - Puffiness Around the Eyes
Early kidney disease can cause protein to leak into the urine, resulting in puffiness around the eyes as the body loses significant protein that would otherwise remain. - Swollen Ankles and Feet
Decreased kidney function often leads to sodium retention, causing swelling in the lower extremities. This could also indicate heart, liver, or chronic leg vein issues. - Poor Appetite
Toxin buildup from decreased kidney function can diminish appetite, even though this symptom is relatively general. - Muscle Cramps
Electrolyte imbalances, such as low calcium or poorly regulated phosphorus levels, are often associated with kidney disease and can lead to muscle cramping.
While these signs alone don’t confirm kidney disease, recognizing them can be a prompt to seek medical advice and possibly get tested. Detecting kidney disease early can allow for better management and a healthier life.
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10 Symptoms of Kidney Disease
