If Your Kidneys Are Sending You These 10 Signals, They’re Probably in Trouble – Don’t Ignore Them
The kidneys are two small, bean-shaped organs located just below the ribs, but their job is gigantic: every day, they filter 120 to 150 liters* of blood, eliminate waste, regulate fluids and electrolytes, maintain blood pressure and even participate in the formation of red blood cells.
When a problem arises, the signs are subtle and can easily go unnoticed. Chronic kidney disease affects millions of people worldwide and often progresses “silently” until the damage becomes irreversible. The good news? Your body is warning you—if you know what to look for.
Below are 10 early signs that your kidneys may be at risk, along with tips on how to respond in time.
⚠️1. Constant fatigue and exhaustion
Do you go to bed early but wake up exhausted? When kidney function deteriorates, it produces less erythropoietin, the hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. This results in anemia and constant fatigue.
What to do?
Discuss the symptom with your GP and request creatinine and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) tests.
💧2. Swelling of the legs, ankles or feet
Impaired filtration traps excess fluid, which accumulates in tissues, most often in the lower limbs.
What to do?
Note the frequency of swelling and its reduction when you elevate your legs; share these observations with your doctor.
🩸3. Changes in urination
Your urine says a lot about the health of your kidneys. Pay attention to:
Sparkling/foamy urine – possible protein loss
Pink, brownish, or cola-colored urine – may contain blood
Frequent trips to the toilet at night
Burning or pain when urinating
What to do:
Have your urine tested for protein, red blood cells, and signs of infection.
🔥4. Dry, itchy skin or rashes
Waste buildup and mineral imbalances cause persistent itching and flaking—not just ordinary winter dryness, but a deeper signal of a problem.
What to do:
Ask your doctor if high levels of toxins in your blood could be related to kidney function.
🤢5. Nausea and loss of appetite
When waste is not filtered, it irritates the gastrointestinal tract, causing nausea, vomiting, and refusal to eat.
What to do?
Request blood tests to rule out renal origin.
🌬️6. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Retained fluid can enter the lungs and anemia reduces oxygen delivery, causing shortness of breath.
