23 Strange Signs Your Kidneys Might Be in Trouble
Your kidneys help remove waste, balance fluids, regulate blood pressure, and maintain important minerals in your body. Kidney problems can sometimes develop quietly, so recognizing possible warning signs can be helpful.
These symptoms do not always mean kidney disease, but they may be worth discussing with a healthcare professional—especially if they persist.
1. Changes in urination
- Urinating much more or less than usual
- Changes in urine color or appearance
2. Foamy urine
- Persistent foam or bubbles may be a sign of protein in the urine.
3. Blood in the urine
- This can have many causes and should be evaluated.
4. Waking up often at night to urinate
- Frequent nighttime urination can occur with several conditions, including kidney issues.
5. Swelling in the feet, ankles, or hands
- Fluid buildup may occur when kidney function is reduced.
6. Puffiness around the eyes
- Some people notice swelling around the eyes, especially in the morning.
7. Ongoing tiredness
- Kidney problems can contribute to anemia and waste buildup, which may cause fatigue.
8. Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in body chemistry may affect mental clarity.
9. Nausea or vomiting
- Waste buildup in more advanced kidney disease can affect digestion.
10. Loss of appetite
11. Unexplained weight changes
12. Itchy skin
- Mineral and waste imbalances can sometimes cause persistent itching.
13. Dry skin
14. Muscle cramps
- Changes in electrolytes may contribute to cramping.
15. Shortness of breath
- Fluid buildup or anemia may affect breathing.
16. High blood pressure
- Kidney disease and high blood pressure are closely connected.
17. Back or side discomfort
- Some kidney-related conditions can cause pain in the flank area.
18. Feeling unusually cold
- Anemia related to kidney problems may contribute.
19. Bad taste in the mouth or unusual breath odor
- Can occur in advanced kidney disease.
20. Sleep problems
- Itching, discomfort, or changes in body chemistry may affect sleep.
21. Reduced exercise ability
- Fatigue and weakness may make activity harder.
22. Frequent infections or slow recovery
- Some people with chronic illnesses may notice slower recovery.
23. A general decline in well-being
- Persistent changes in energy, appetite, or daily functioning should be checked.
Tests that can check kidney health
Healthcare professionals commonly use:
- eGFR blood test: Estimates kidney filtering ability.
- Urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR): Checks for protein leakage.
- Blood pressure checks: High blood pressure can both cause and worsen kidney disease.
