Your kidneys quietly work to filter waste, balance fluids, and keep your body functioning — but kidney disease often develops without obvious symptoms at first. When the kidneys begin to fail, waste builds up in the blood and the body reacts in subtle ways that are easy to ignore. Fatigue, trouble sleeping, and persistent itchy, dry skin can be early clues that something is wrong.

As kidney function declines, urination changes are common. You may find yourself running to the bathroom more often — especially at night — or notice foamy urine, blood in the urine, or puffiness around the eyes. These changes signal that the kidneys are struggling to filter properly and may be leaking protein or blood cells into your urine.

Fluid imbalance can also cause swelling in the feet, ankles, or hands, while a buildup of waste products can lead to nausea, poor appetite, and difficulty concentrating. Some people experience painful muscle cramps due to electrolyte imbalances caused by decreased kidney function.

If you notice multiple symptoms like these, don’t ignore them. Early detection is key — kidney damage can be slowed or managed with proper care. Maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels are vital steps in protecting your kidneys and overall well-being.