How to Recognize Kidney Disease Before It’s Too Late

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a growing public health challenge in India, affecting nearly 10% of the population—equivalent to around 140 million people. India also holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest number of CKD-related deaths globally, surpassing nations like China and Japan. Despite the seriousness of the condition, many individuals remain unaware of their kidney disease until its advanced stages, when kidney function is significantly impaired or large amounts of protein appear in the urine. Only 10% of those with CKD are aware of their condition, as early symptoms are often mild or mistaken for other health issues.

While medical testing is the most accurate way to diagnose kidney disease, it is crucial to know early warning signs. Symptoms such as persistent fatigue, swelling in the legs or face, changes in urination patterns, and unexplained high blood pressure may indicate kidney problems. Early detection and timely medical intervention can help slow disease progression and improve quality of life.

At Apex Hospitals, the leading healthcare provider in Rajasthan, specialized kidney care is available to diagnose, manage, and treat kidney disorders effectively. By prioritizing proactive healthcare, routine check-ups, and a healthy lifestyle, individuals can safeguard their kidney health. The kidneys play a critical role in filtering waste, balancing body fluids, and regulating essential electrolytes—making their health vital for overall well-being.

What are the risk factors of kidney disease?

Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing kidney disease. Understanding these factors can help in early detection and prevention.

• Diabetes – High blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys over time, making diabetes the leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) – Uncontrolled blood pressure strains the kidneys, leading to damage over time.
• Heart Disease – A weak heart can affect blood flow to the kidneys, reducing their ability to function correctly.
• Obesity – Excess weight increases the risk of diabetes and high blood pressure, both of which can contribute to kidney disease.
• Family History of Kidney Disease – If close relatives have kidney disease, there may be a genetic predisposition to developing it.
• Smoking – Tobacco use reduces blood flow to the kidneys and worsens existing kidney conditions.
• Excessive Use of Painkillers – Frequent use of NSAIDs (like ibuprofen and naproxen) can harm the kidneys over time.
• Dehydration – Chronic dehydration can lead to kidney stones and impair kidney function.
• Age – The risk of kidney disease increases with age, particularly after 60.
• Autoimmune Diseases – Lupus and other immune system disorders can cause kidney inflammation.
• Frequent Kidney Infections – Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) or kidney infections can cause scarring and long-term kidney damage.
• High Salt and Processed Food Intake – A diet high in sodium and processed foods can increase blood pressure, straining the kidneys.
• Alcohol Abuse – Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to high blood pressure and other kidney-related complications.

Signs of Kidney disease

Kidney disease often develops silently, showing noticeable symptoms only in later stages. However, recognizing the early warning signs can help in timely diagnosis and treatment. Here are 10 key signs that may indicate kidney disease:

1. Frequent Urination (Especially at Night)

One of the first and most noticeable signs of kidney disease is a change in urination patterns. Since kidneys filter waste and maintain fluid balance, any abnormality in urine frequency, appearance, or flow could signal underlying kidney problems.

Key Urinary Changes to Watch For:

• Frequent Urination, Especially at Night (Nocturia): If you feel the urge to urinate more often, particularly at night, it could indicate kidney dysfunction. Damaged kidney filters allow more fluid to pass through, increasing the need to urinate.
• Difficulty Urinating or Weak Stream: Struggling to urinate, feeling incomplete bladder emptying, or experiencing a weak urine flow might indicate kidney-related issues or an enlarged prostate (in men).

While these symptoms can also be linked to urinary tract infections or other conditions, persistent changes in urination warrant immediate medical attention. Early detection of kidney disease can help prevent further complications.

2. Blood in Urine (Haematuria)

Healthy kidneys function as natural filters, ensuring that essential blood cells remain in the body while eliminating waste through urine. However, when the kidney's filtration system becomes damaged, red blood cells may leak into the urine, causing a condition known as haematuria.

While blood in the urine can be a sign of kidney disease, it may also indicate other severe conditions, such as:

• Kidney infections or inflammation
• Kidney stones that cause irritation or blockages
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Bladder or kidney tumours

If you notice pink, red, or dark-coloured urine, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Identifying the cause early can prevent further complications and ensure timely treatment.

3. Foamy or Bubbly Urine

Are you noticing excessive bubbles in your urine that persist even after multiple flushes? This could indicate protein leakage (proteinuria), which can indicate an underlying kidney issue.

Healthy kidneys filter waste while keeping essential proteins like albumin in the bloodstream. However, when the kidneys are damaged, protein may leak into the urine, causing it to appear foamy—similar to the bubbles seen when scrambling eggs, as albumin is also found in egg whites.

While occasional bubbles in urine can be expected, persistent foamy urine may indicate:

• Kidney disease or damage
• Dehydration, leading to concentrated urine
• High protein intake
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

If you frequently notice foamy urine, consult a doctor for a urine test to check for protein levels and assess kidney health. Early detection can help prevent further complications.

4. Swelling in Hands, Feet, or Face

If you've noticed persistent swelling in your feet, ankles, hands, or face, it could be due to fluid retention—a common sign of decreased kidney function.

Healthy kidneys remove excess fluid and sodium from the body. However, when kidney function declines, fluid builds up in tissues, leading to noticeable swelling, particularly in:

• Feet and ankles
• Hands
• Face (especially around the eyes, due to protein loss in urine)

5. Fatigue and Weakness

Kidneys help produce erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that supports red blood cell production. Damaged kidneys lead to low red blood cell count (anemia), which can cause fatigue and weakness.

6. Persistent Itching or Dry Skin

Your kidneys do more than filter waste—they also help maintain mineral balance, support red blood cell production, and keep bones strong. When kidney function declines, it can disrupt these processes, leading to dry, itchy skin and discomfort.

When the kidneys fail to remove toxins efficiently, waste builds up in the bloodstream, leading to:

• Persistent itching (even without a visible rash)
• Dry, irritated skin that doesn’t improve with lotions
• Skin changes due to mineral imbalances

7. Loss of Appetite and Nausea

Kidney disease can affect more than just urine output—it can also impact digestion and appetite. When the kidneys fail to filter waste efficiently, toxins accumulate in the blood, leading to digestive issues and discomfort.

Signs of Kidney-Related Digestive Issues:

• Metallic taste in the mouth or food tasting "off."
• Feeling full quickly, even after eating small portions
• Nausea or vomiting, particularly in the morning
• Unintentional weight loss due to reduced appetite

When waste builds up in the body, it can disrupt normal digestion, making food less appealing and triggering nausea. Over time, this can lead to malnutrition and weakness.

8. Difficulty Sleeping

If you're struggling with poor sleep quality or insomnia, your kidneys might be to blame. When the kidneys fail to filter out toxins effectively, waste accumulates in the blood, disrupting sleep patterns and overall well-being.

How Kidney Disease Affects Sleep:

• Toxin Buildup: Impaired kidney function leads to waste retention, making falling and staying asleep harder.
• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): Many kidney disease patients experience uncomfortable leg sensations, leading to frequent waking.
• Sleep Apnea: People with kidney disease—especially if it is linked to obesity or high blood pressure—are more prone to sleep apnea, which causes snoring and interrupted breathing during sleep.

Chronic sleep disturbances can worsen kidney function, contributing to fatigue, cognitive issues, and poor immune health.

9. Muscle Cramps and Pain

Are you experiencing frequent muscle cramps, especially in your legs? It might not just be dehydration—it could be a warning sign of kidney disease. The kidneys play a vital role in regulating electrolytes like calcium, phosphorus, and potassium, essential for muscle and nerve function.

How Kidney Disease Triggers Muscle Cramps

• Electrolyte Imbalance: Poor kidney function disrupts the balance of calcium, sodium, and potassium, leading to sudden cramps.
• Phosphorus and Calcium Issues: High phosphorus and low calcium levels can cause muscle spasms and pain.
• Fluid Imbalance: Kidney dysfunction can lead to fluid retention or dehydration, which may trigger cramps.

10. Shortness of Breath

When kidneys fail to remove extra fluid, it can accumulate in the lungs, leading to breathlessness. Anemia from kidney disease can also cause a lack of oxygen in the blood.

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially multiple signs, consult our nephrologists immediately for kidney function tests. Early diagnosis can slow or prevent kidney disease from worsening.