Your kidneys are remarkable organs that work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep your body functioning optimally.
These bean-shaped powerhouses filter approximately 45 – 50 gallons of blood each day, removing waste products and excess fluid that eventually leave your body as urine. Beyond filtration, kidneys regulate blood pressure, balance electrolytes, activate vitamin D for bone health, and produce hormones that help create red blood cells.
Despite their critical importance, kidney problems often develop silently, earning kidney disease the nickname “the silent killer.” Many people don’t realize they have kidney issues until the organs are functioning at just 20% of their normal capacity. That’s why recognizing early warning signs is crucial for prevention and treatment.
If you’ve been feeling unwell and can’t pinpoint the reason, your kidneys might be struggling.
In honour of World Kidney Day, let’s explore five key warning signs that might indicate your kidneys are struggling and what you should do if you notice them.
Sign #1: Persistent Fatigue and Weakness
Do you feel exhausted despite getting adequate sleep? When kidneys begin to fail, they become less effective at filtering waste products from your blood. The buildup of these toxins can lead to a persistent feeling of tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest.
What happens: Healthy kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin (EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout your body. When kidney function declines, EPO production decreases, potentially resulting in anaemia—a condition where you don’t have enough red blood cells to transport adequate oxygen to your tissues and organs.
What to notice: Fatigue that seems disproportionate to your activity level, weakness that affects your daily activities, or a general sense of being “drained” that doesn’t improve with proper sleep.
Sign #2: Swelling in Lower Extremities and Face
Have you noticed your shoes feeling tighter by the end of the day? Or perhaps your face appears puffy, especially in the morning? These could be signs that your kidneys aren’t effectively removing excess fluid from your body.
What happens: When kidneys function properly, they filter out excess fluid and sodium, which leaves your body as urine. When kidneys fail to perform this crucial function, fluid builds up in tissues, causing swelling—a condition called oedema.
What to notice: Swollen ankles, feet, or legs that may leave indentations when pressed (pitting oedema), puffiness around the eyes, especially upon waking, and hands that feel tight or swollen.
Sign #3: Changes in Urination
Your urine can tell a compelling story about the state of your kidney health. Changes in urination patterns or urine appearance often serve as early indicators of kidney problems.
What happens: Damaged kidney structures may allow blood cells to leak into urine, while failing filters might let proteins pass through, creating foamy urine. Impaired kidney function can also disrupt your body’s normal fluid balance.
What to notice:
- Foamy or bubbly urine (resembling beaten egg whites)
- Blood in urine (appearing pink, red, or cola-colored)
- Increased urination, especially at night
- Decreased urine output
- A sense of pressure or difficulty urinating
- Changes in urine colour or odour
Sign #4: Shortness of Breath
Finding yourself easily winded, even during mild activities? This could be connected to your kidney function in two important ways.
What happens: First, extra fluid that kidneys fail to remove may build up in your lungs. Second, anaemia caused by decreased kidney function means less oxygen is delivered to your cells and tissues, forcing your body to work harder during physical activities.
What to notice: Difficulty catching your breath during routine activities that didn’t previously cause breathlessness, feeling winded after climbing stairs, or trouble breathing when lying flat.
Sign #5: Skin Changes and Itchiness
Your skin—the body’s largest organ—often reflects internal health changes, including those related to kidney function.
What happens: As kidneys fail, waste products accumulate in your blood rather than being excreted. This buildup can cause severe itching and skin changes. Additionally, imbalances in calcium and phosphorus due to kidney dysfunction can cause skin to become abnormally dry and itchy.
What to notice: Persistent itching that doesn’t improve with moisturizers, dry and flaky skin, unusual rashes, yellowish or greyish skin tone, and poor wound healing.
Additional Warning Signs Worth Mentioning
While the five signs above are primary indicators, keep an eye out for these additional symptoms:
- Metallic taste in the mouth or food aversion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty concentrating or mental fogginess
- Muscle cramps, especially at night
- Poor appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- High blood pressure resistant to medication
Risk Factors for Kidney Disease
Certain factors put you at higher risk for developing kidney problems. These include:
- Diabetes (the leading cause of kidney failure)
- High blood pressure (the second leading cause)
- Family history of kidney disease
- Age over 60
- Obesity
- Cardiovascular disease
- Smoking
- Chronic use of certain medications (including some over-the-counter pain relievers)
- Certain ethnic backgrounds (African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, and Asian Americans are at higher risk)
When to See a Doctor
If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above—particularly if you have risk factors for kidney disease—it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider promptly. Early detection can significantly slow the progression of kidney disease and, in some cases, even reverse damage.
Routine kidney function can be assessed through:
- Blood tests (BUN and creatinine levels)
- Urine tests (checking for protein or blood)
- Imaging studies (ultrasound or CT scans)
- GFR (glomerular filtration rate) calculation
Protecting Your Kidney Health
This World Kidney Day, consider adopting these kidney-friendly habits:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water (around 8 cups daily for most adults)
- Maintain healthy blood pressure and blood sugar levels
- Follow a kidney-friendly diet low in sodium, processed foods, and added sugars
- Exercise regularly to promote overall cardiovascular health
- Limit alcohol consumption and avoid smoking
- Use over-the-counter pain medications sparingly and as directed
- Get regular check-ups that include kidney function tests, especially if you have risk factors
- Maintain a healthy weight through proper nutrition and physical activity
Conclusion
Your kidneys work tirelessly day and night to keep your body in balance. By recognizing the warning signs of kidney dysfunction and taking proactive steps to maintain kidney health, you can protect these vital organs for years to come.
This World Kidney Day, make a commitment to your kidney health. Listen to what your body might be telling you, know your risk factors, and consult with healthcare professionals when needed. Remember—early detection and intervention are your strongest allies in the fight against kidney disease.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you suspect kidney problems, please consult with a qualified healthcare provider.
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