23 signs that may be associated with kidney problems
The headline is a little misleading: none of these symptoms alone can diagnose kidney disease, and many have much more common explanations. Early chronic kidney disease (CKD) can cause few or no symptoms, which is why blood and urine testing is important for people at risk.
Some possible signs include:
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Swelling in the ankles, feet, legs, hands, or around the eyes
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Foamy or unusually bubbly urine, which can occur with excess protein in the urine
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Blood in the urine (pink, red, or cola-colored urine)
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Urinating more often, especially at night
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Producing much less urine than usual
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Cloudy or unusually dark urine
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Persistent fatigue or weakness
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Difficulty concentrating or feeling mentally foggy
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Poor appetite
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Nausea or vomiting
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Unexplained weight loss
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Dry, itchy skin
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Muscle cramps or twitching
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Headaches
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Sleep problems
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Shortness of breath, particularly when fluid accumulates
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High blood pressure that is difficult to control
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Puffiness around the eyes, especially in the morning
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Metallic taste or unpleasant taste in the mouth
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Bad or ammonia-like breath in advanced kidney dysfunction
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Changes in skin color or unusually pale skin
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Pain in the side or back, which can occur with certain kidney conditions such as stones or infection
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Persistent hiccups, particularly in advanced kidney failure
