More than 37 million adults in the United States are grappling with kidney disease, often without awareness of its presence. Dr. Joseph Vassalotti, Chief Medical Officer at the National Kidney Foundation, emphasizes that physical signs of kidney disease are sometimes mistaken for other ailments. Additionally, symptoms tend to manifest in the late stages, making it crucial for those at risk, due to factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, a family history of kidney failure, or age over 60, to undergo annual testing. Below are ten potential signs that may indicate the presence of kidney disease, as shared by Dr. Vassalotti:
Signs of Possible Kidney Disease
- Fatigue and Difficulty Concentrating: A significant decline in kidney function can lead to a buildup of toxins, causing fatigue, weakness, and difficulties concentrating. Anemia, a complication of kidney disease, may also contribute to weakness and fatigue.
- Sleep Disturbances: Inefficient kidney filtering can result in toxins remaining in the bloodstream, affecting sleep patterns. The correlation between obesity, chronic kidney disease, and increased prevalence of sleep apnea is noteworthy.
- Dry and Itchy Skin: Healthy kidneys perform essential functions, including removing waste, maintaining fluid balance, and supporting bone health. Dry and itchy skin may indicate mineral and bone disease associated with advanced kidney dysfunction.
- Increased Urination: A heightened urge to urinate, especially at night, may signal kidney disease or other conditions like urinary infections or enlarged prostate in men.
- Blood in Urine: Damaged kidney filters may allow blood cells to leak into the urine, indicating kidney disease or potentially other issues such as tumors, kidney stones, or infections.
- Foamy Urine: Excessive bubbles in urine, reminiscent of egg foam, may indicate protein leakage. This could be a precursor to kidney issues, as the common protein in urine, albumin, leaks out similar to the protein found in eggs.
- Persistent Eye Puffiness: Protein leakage, an early sign of kidney filter damage, may cause puffiness around the eyes as the kidneys release a significant amount of protein into the urine.
- Swelling in Ankles and Feet: Decreased kidney function can lead to sodium retention, resulting in swelling in the lower extremities. This swelling may also be associated with heart disease, liver disease, or chronic leg vein problems.
- Reduced Appetite: While a broad symptom, a decline in kidney function leading to toxin buildup can contribute to a poor appetite.
- Muscle Cramps: Electrolyte imbalances stemming from impaired kidney function, such as low calcium levels and poorly controlled phosphorus, may contribute to muscle cramping.
