9 Warning Signs of Kidney Disease and the Tests Used to Evaluate It
Kidney disease often develops without symptoms in its early stages, which is why routine screening is important for people at higher risk, such as those with diabetes or high blood pressure.
Possible warning signs
1. Swelling
- Puffiness around the eyes or swelling of the feet, ankles, or legs due to fluid retention.
2. Changes in urination
- Urinating more or less than usual
- Waking frequently to urinate at night
- Foamy urine (which may indicate protein in the urine)
- Blood in the urine
3. Persistent fatigue
- Reduced kidney function can contribute to anemia and the buildup of waste products.
4. Loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting
- These symptoms may occur as kidney function worsens.
5. Itchy skin
- Persistent itching can develop in advanced kidney disease.
6. Muscle cramps
- Electrolyte imbalances may contribute to cramping.
7. Shortness of breath
- This can result from fluid buildup or anemia.
8. Difficulty concentrating
- Some people experience mental “fog” or trouble concentrating.
9. High blood pressure
- High blood pressure is both a major cause and a possible consequence of kidney disease.
Tests that help detect kidney disease
Healthcare professionals commonly use:
- Blood tests
- Serum creatinine
- Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) to estimate how well the kidneys are filtering blood
- Urine tests
- Urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) to detect protein in the urine
- Urinalysis to look for blood, protein, or other abnormalities
- Other tests (when needed)
- Kidney ultrasound or other imaging
- Additional blood or urine tests depending on the suspected cause
Can these tests help avoid dialysis?
The tests themselves do not prevent dialysis, but they can detect kidney disease early. Early diagnosis allows treatment that may slow or delay progression in many people. Depending on the cause, treatment may include:
- Controlling blood pressure
- Managing diabetes
- Avoiding medications that can harm the kidneys
- Following an appropriate diet
- Treating the underlying kidney condition
Seek prompt medical care if you have:
- Blood in your urine
- Very little or no urine output
- Severe swelling
- Chest pain or severe shortness of breath
- Confusion or extreme drowsiness
Early kidney disease often has no symptoms, so people with diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, or a family history of kidney disease should discuss regular kidney screening with their healthcare professional.
