Your kidneys are two hardworking, bean-shaped organs that quietly keep your body balanced every single day. They filter waste, regulate blood pressure, balance electrolytes, and even help produce red blood cells. But when something goes wrong, the signs are often subtle — until it’s too late. Recognizing the early red flags can help protect your kidneys from long-term damage.
Here are 23 signs your kidneys may be crying for help.
1. Persistent Fatigue
Kidneys help produce erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. When kidney function declines, fewer red blood cells are made, leading to anemia and constant tiredness.
2. Trouble Sleeping
Toxins build up in the blood when kidneys can’t filter properly. This can disrupt sleep and even worsen conditions like sleep apnea.
3. Dry or Itchy Skin
Healthy kidneys keep minerals and nutrients balanced. If they’re struggling, you may experience dry, itchy, or flaky skin due to imbalances in calcium and phosphorus.
4. Frequent Urination at Night
Waking up often to urinate (nocturia) may signal kidney problems or urinary tract issues.
5. Foamy or Bubbly Urine
Excess protein in the urine (proteinuria) can make it appear foamy, a warning sign of kidney damage.
6. Swollen Ankles, Feet, or Hands
When kidneys fail to remove excess sodium and fluids, swelling (edema) occurs in the extremities.
7. Puffy Eyes
Protein leakage in urine can cause puffiness around the eyes, often noticeable in the morning.
8. High Blood Pressure
Kidneys regulate blood pressure. If they’re unhealthy, hypertension can develop or worsen.
