The kidneys filter waste and extra fluid from the blood, help control blood pressure, and support healthy red blood cell production. Kidney problems can develop quietly, so it’s useful to know possible warning signs—but many of these symptoms can also come from other conditions.
23 possible signs your kidneys may need attention
- Changes in urination
- Urinating much more or less than usual
- Waking up often at night to urinate
- Foamy or bubbly urine
- Can be a sign of protein leaking into the urine.
- Blood in the urine
- May appear pink, red, or cola-colored.
- Swelling (edema)
- Puffiness around the eyes, swelling in the feet, ankles, or hands.
- Persistent fatigue
- Kidney disease can contribute to anemia and low energy.
- Trouble concentrating
- Waste buildup or anemia may affect mental clarity.
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Metallic taste in the mouth
- Bad breath with an unusual ammonia-like smell
- Dry, itchy skin
- Muscle cramps
- Changes in minerals and fluid balance can contribute.
- Shortness of breath
- Can occur if fluid builds up or anemia develops.
- High blood pressure
- Kidney problems and high blood pressure can worsen each other.
- Back or side pain
- Especially if related to kidney stones or infection.
- Pale skin or looking unusually tired
- Sometimes related to anemia.
- Feeling cold more often
- Can occur with anemia.
- Difficulty sleeping
- Restless legs
- Unexplained weight changes
- Particularly weight loss with loss of appetite or swelling-related weight gain.
- Frequent urinary tract infections
- Difficulty controlling blood pressure
- General decline in well-being
- Feeling persistently unwell without a clear explanation.
Who should be especially aware?
People with higher kidney disease risk include those with:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- A family history of kidney disease
- Long-term use of certain pain medicines (especially frequent NSAID use)
- Older age
When to get checked
