Your kidneys might be small, but they play a massive role in keeping your body healthy. Shaped like beans and located just below your ribcage on either side of your spine, these vital organs are responsible for filtering waste products and excess fluids from your blood, which helps maintain a balance of electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and calcium. Plus, they help regulate blood pressure and make red blood cells. Healthy kidneys filter between 120 to 150 quarts of blood daily, resulting in about 1 to 2 quarts of urine. So when something goes wrong with your kidneys, your body knows it—and it’s important that you recognize the signs.

What Is Kidney Disease?

Kidney disease, also called renal disease, happens when your kidneys become damaged and can’t function properly. This can be due to various factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, infections, autoimmune disorders, or even genetics. Without proper treatment, kidney disease can progress to kidney failure, which may require dialysis or even a kidney transplant. The earlier it’s detected, the better the chances of preventing further damage and managing the condition.

10 Signs Your Kidneys Might Be in Danger

Here are ten signs your body might be giving you if your kidneys are in trouble:

1. Changes in Urination

One of the first things you might notice if you have kidney disease is a change in how often you urinate. You could be making more trips to the bathroom, especially at night, or you might be urinating less frequently. You may even notice that your urine appears foamy.

2. Fatigue and Weakness

Kidneys that aren’t working properly can lead to anemia, which means you don’t have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout your body. This often results in persistent fatigue, weakness, and even trouble concentrating.

3. Swelling (Edema)

If your kidneys aren’t filtering out excess fluids as they should, you may notice swelling—especially in your legs, hands, face, or abdomen. This condition is called edema and is common in people with kidney problems.

4. Persistent Back Pain

Back pain that lingers just below your ribcage could be a sign of kidney disease. The pain can be severe and is often accompanied by tenderness. This symptom can also show up if a urinary tract infection (UTI) goes untreated.

5. Unexplained Weight Loss or Loss of Appetite

Have you noticed unexplained weight loss or a sudden drop in your appetite? This could be due to waste products building up in your body because your kidneys aren’t filtering properly.

6. Nausea and Vomiting

Kidney problems can lead to a feeling of nausea, and in some cases, vomiting. You may feel especially queasy in the mornings or after eating a meal.

7. Trouble Sleeping

Many people with kidney disease report difficulty sleeping. This may be linked to muscle cramps at night, restless leg syndrome, or frequent urination that keeps waking you up.

8. Metallic Taste in the Mouth

A persistent metallic taste could be a sign of kidney disease, thanks to the buildup of waste products in your blood. Food might even start tasting different than usual.

9. Muscle Cramps and Twitching

Imbalanced electrolyte levels, particularly low potassium or calcium, can result in muscle cramps or twitching, which is often a symptom of kidney problems.

10. Itchy Skin

If your skin becomes uncomfortably itchy, it could be because toxins are accumulating in your blood due to malfunctioning kidneys. The itching is often generalized, not limited to any specific area.

Protecting Your Kidney Health

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to seek medical advice for further evaluation. Kidney disease symptoms can vary depending on how advanced the condition is, so timely intervention is key.

The good news is that there are several things you can do to keep your kidneys healthy and avoid kidney disease altogether. A healthy lifestyle is your first line of defense. Here’s how you can make sure your kidneys stay in good shape:

• Eat a Balanced Diet: Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains.
• Exercise Regularly: Physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of high blood pressure.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps flush toxins out of your body.
• Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking: Alcohol can affect blood pressure, and smoking damages blood vessels, which could make kidney problems worse.
• Take Medications Responsibly: Both prescription and over-the-counter drugs can put stress on your kidneys. Always follow the instructions from your doctor or pharmacist.

If you’re at risk of kidney disease, don’t hesitate to get your kidneys tested. Early detection and timely treatment can make all the difference in keeping your kidneys healthy.

Listen to Your Body

Kidney disease is serious, but the body often sends clear signals that something is wrong. By paying attention to these 10 warning signs and taking action, you can catch kidney issues early and get the necessary treatment before it’s too late. Remember, your kidneys are vital to your health, and taking care of them today can ensure a healthier, happier future.