Did you know that your skin, nails, and even your breath can give you important clues about the health of your kidneys? Kidney disease is more common than you might think, and it often hides in plain sight. It’s estimated that up to 90% of people with chronic kidney disease don’t even know they have it. This is a big problem because if we catch kidney disease early, we can usually treat the root cause and prevent further damage. So, let’s look at 17 signs of chronic kidney disease that you might be able to see. (Based on the expertise of Dr. Siobhan Deshauer.)
Understanding Your Kidneys
Your kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of your lower back, just under your ribs. While many people think of them as simple filters that get rid of toxins in your urine, they actually do much more. Kidneys help regulate salt, potassium, and other electrolytes, balance acid levels in your blood, control hemoglobin levels, and maintain bone health. So, how can you tell if these important organs are in trouble?
Key Takeaways
- Many people with kidney disease don’t know they have it.
- Early detection allows for treatment of the root cause and prevention of further damage.
- Visible signs in urine, skin, nails, and breath can indicate kidney problems.
- Common causes include diabetes, high blood pressure, and overuse of certain medications.
Signs You Can See
17. Foamy Urine
16. Swelling (Edema)
To check for swelling, gently press your thumb into your lower shin bone for about 5 seconds. If it leaves an indent, it’s called pitting edema. This can happen when your kidneys aren’t filtering properly and you lose albumin in your urine. Lower albumin levels in your blood mean less fluid is held inside your blood vessels. This fluid can then leak into your tissues, causing swelling, often in the legs, feet, or around the eyes. While standing all day can cause mild swelling that improves overnight, persistent or worsening swelling, especially around the eyes, could be kidney-related.
