10 Warning Signs of Kidney Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore
Kidney disease affects millions of people worldwide, but many don’t realize they have it until it’s in a serious stage. Your kidneys remove waste, balance fluids, and regulate blood pressure, so early detection is important to avoid complications. Watch for these signs and seek medical help early.
What Do Kidneys Do?
Your kidneys are located below your ribcage and perform many important functions. They filter blood, remove waste, control blood pressure, and help produce red blood cells. Healthy kidneys filter about 120-150 quarts of blood daily, producing 1-2 quarts of urine. When the kidneys stop working properly, waste builds up in the body, which can cause serious health problems.
Kidney disease can be caused by high blood pressure, diabetes, infections, or genetics. Without early treatment, it can lead to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a transplant.
Signs of Kidney Disease
Changes in Urination
Urinating more or less often than usual, foamy urine, or dark-colored urine can be warning signs.
Fatigue and Weakness
Feeling tired all the time? Low red blood cell levels caused by kidney problems can make you weak.
Swelling in the Body
Fluid buildup (edema) can cause swelling in your legs, hands, face, or abdomen.
Pain in the Lower Back
Severe pain below the ribcage, sometimes linked to urinary infections, could mean kidney trouble.
Unexplained Weight Loss or Loss of Appetite
Waste buildup can reduce appetite, leading to unintentional weight loss.
Nausea and Vomiting
Feeling sick often, especially in the morning? This can be due to toxins in the body.
Difficulty Sleeping
Restless legs, muscle cramps, or frequent urination at night may affect your sleep.
Metallic Taste in the Mouth
Toxins in the blood can cause a strange taste or bad breath.
Muscle Cramps and Twitching
Electrolyte imbalances from kidney problems can lead to muscle cramps.
Itchy Skin
Toxin buildup in the blood may cause itching.
How to Prevent Kidney Disease
Stay healthy by eating well, exercising, drinking enough water, and getting enough sleep. Limit alcohol, avoid smoking, and take medications as prescribed. If you’re at risk, get regular kidney tests. Early detection can save lives.
