Short answer: kidney disease often has no symptoms early on, but certain signs and test results can indicate it. If you’re worried about your kidney health, seek medical evaluation promptly, especially if you have risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, family history of kidney disease, or are over age 60. What to watch for
- Changes in urination: more or less urination than usual, foamy urine, blood in the urine.
- Swelling (edema): especially in feet, ankles, or around the eyes.
- Fatigue or weakness that isn’t explained by other causes.
- Shortness of breath or persistent itching.
- High blood pressure that’s hard to control.
- Nausea, loss of appetite, or persistent back or side pain.
How kidney disease is typically diagnosed (noticing this relies on tests)
- Blood tests to estimate kidney function, commonly the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and creatinine levels.
- Urine tests to check for protein (albumin) and other markers of kidney damage.
- Blood pressure measurements and sometimes imaging or other specialized tests to determine the cause and stage.
If you have risk factors or symptoms, you should:
- Schedule an appointment with a primary care physician or a nephrologist.
- Bring a list of your medications, any symptoms, and a history of diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Consider routine screening if you have risk factors, since many people with kidney disease don’t have noticeable symptoms early on.
First steps you can take today
- Check blood pressure at home or at a pharmacy; aim for a value within your doctor’s target range. Persistent high readings should be discussed with a clinician.
- If you notice foamy urine, swelling, or blood in the urine, contact a healthcare provider promptly.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle to protect kidney health: control blood sugar if you have diabetes, manage blood pressure, stay hydrated, avoid smoking, limit processed salt, and follow a balanced diet.
Important note: only a healthcare professional can diagnose kidney disease, and early detection improves outcomes. If you’d like, share your age, known conditions (like diabetes or hypertension), and any symptoms you’ve noticed, and I can outline what tests your clinician might suggest and how to prepare for the visit.
