Know the signs
Kidney disease is often invisible — until it isn't.
Most people with chronic kidney disease have no symptoms in the early stages. By the time symptoms appear, significant damage may already have occurred. Knowing what to look for could change everything.
Why this matters.
Kat's kidney disease went undetected for years. She had no obvious symptoms — just a routine blood test that flagged something unusual. Early detection gives people options. That's why we're sharing this.
Warning signs
Eight signs worth knowing.
Changes in urination
Urinating more or less than usual, foamy or bubbly urine, blood in the urine, or needing to get up at night to urinate. Foamy urine can indicate protein leaking into the urine — one of the earliest signs of kidney trouble.
Foamy urine that persists is worth mentioning to your doctor, even if you feel fine.
Fatigue and weakness
Healthy kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin, which signals the body to make red blood cells. When kidneys are damaged, less of this hormone is produced — leading to anemia, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
Feeling tired all the time, especially combined with other symptoms, is worth investigating.
Difficulty sleeping
When kidneys aren't filtering properly, toxins build up in the blood rather than leaving through urine. This can make it hard to sleep. Sleep apnea is also more common in people with chronic kidney disease.
Trouble concentrating
A significant decrease in kidney function can lead to a buildup of toxins and impurities in the blood. This can cause difficulty concentrating, brain fog, or feeling mentally sluggish.
Dry, itchy skin
Healthy kidneys maintain the right balance of minerals and nutrients in the blood. Kidney disease can disrupt this balance, leading to dry, itchy skin — particularly when the disease has progressed.
Swelling in feet, ankles, or hands
Failing kidneys don't remove extra fluid and sodium as effectively, which can cause swelling — particularly in the lower legs, ankles, and feet. Puffiness around the eyes in the morning can also be a sign.
Persistent swelling that doesn't go away with rest is worth a doctor's visit.
Loss of appetite or metallic taste
A buildup of waste products in the blood (uremia) can cause a metallic taste in the mouth, bad breath, or a loss of appetite. Some people notice they no longer enjoy foods they used to love.
Muscle cramps
Electrolyte imbalances caused by impaired kidney function — particularly low calcium and poorly controlled phosphorus — can result in muscle cramping, especially in the legs.
“Kat's diagnosis came from a routine blood test. She had no idea anything was wrong.”
Who is most at risk
Some people are more vulnerable than others.
While kidney disease can affect anyone, certain conditions and factors significantly increase the risk. If any of these apply to you, talk to your doctor about getting your kidney function tested.
Diabetes
The leading cause of kidney disease. High blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the kidneys over time.
High blood pressure
The second leading cause. Uncontrolled hypertension puts strain on the kidneys' filtering system.
Family history
Kidney disease can run in families. If a close relative has CKD, your risk is higher.
Heart disease
The heart and kidneys are closely linked. Heart disease increases the risk of kidney disease and vice versa.
Age over 60
Kidney function naturally declines with age. Adults over 60 should have regular kidney function checks.
Obesity
Excess weight increases the risk of diabetes and high blood pressure — both major risk factors for CKD.
Getting tested
Two simple tests can tell you a lot.
Blood test (eGFR)
A blood test measures your estimated glomerular filtration rate — how well your kidneys are filtering waste. It's part of a standard metabolic panel.
Urine test (ACR)
A urine test checks for albumin, a protein that shouldn't be in urine in large amounts. Protein in the urine is an early sign of kidney damage.
Ask your doctor about a kidney function test at your next visit. It's simple, covered by most insurance, and could catch something early.
If something feels off, trust it.
You know your body. If you've noticed any of these signs — or if you have risk factors and haven't been tested — please talk to your doctor. Early detection changes outcomes.
And if you're here because you're thinking about helping Kat, thank you. Every person who learns about kidney disease is one step closer to understanding why living donation matters so much.