9 Kidney Disease Symptoms Most People Can Miss Until It’s Too Late

Your kidneys may not get much attention, but they’re working around the clock to keep you well. From balancing fluids and filtering out toxins to supporting your bones and blood pressure, these small organs do big things. The problem? When your kidneys start to struggle, the symptoms can be quiet — easy to brush off or mistake for something else.

CONTENT IS PROVIDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED AS A SUBSTITUTE OF MEDICAL ADVICE. SEEK GUIDANCE OF YOUR DOCTOR REGARDING YOUR HEALTH AND MEDICAL CONDITIONS.

Tongue coating

A white or yellowish coating on the tongue can sometimes be a sign that your body isn’t getting rid of waste properly. When the kidneys aren’t working well, toxins can build up and affect your breath and mouth. Some people also notice a metallic taste or dryness. If the coating doesn’t go away with regular brushing, it might be worth checking with a doctor.

Trouble sleeping

• Kidney problems can cause toxins to stay in your bloodstream rather than being flushed out through urine. This can make it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep. People with chronic kidney disease also have a higher risk of sleep apnea.

Changes in Urination

• Pay attention to how often you go and what your urine looks like. Kidney disease can cause:
  Increased or decreased urination
  Foamy urine (a sign of protein)
  Blood in the urine

• If your urine is dark and you’re urinating less frequently than usual, it could be a sign of dehydration. You might also experience fatigue, nausea, or grogginess. A doctor can check your urine’s concentration to assess your hydration levels.

Poor Appetite

• A loss of appetite may not seem serious at first. But when it’s caused by a buildup of toxins due to reduced kidney function, it’s a red flag.

Feeling more tired than usual

• If you’re constantly exhausted, even after a full night’s sleep, your kidneys might not be doing their job. When they’re not filtering properly, toxins build up in the blood, making you feel tired and weak. This is also linked to a lack of red blood cells, a condition called anemia.

Itchy Skin

• Kidney disease can cause mineral and bone imbalances that lead to dry and itchy skin. It may feel like just a skin issue, but it can signal deeper problems with your kidneys.

Muscle Cramps

• Imbalances in electrolytes like calcium and phosphorus — caused by failing kidneys — can lead to muscle cramps, often at night.

Nausea or Vomiting

• If toxins are building up in your body, you may feel nauseous or even throw up, especially in more advanced stages of kidney disease.

Underarm darkening

Darkened skin under the arms can be linked to changes in your body’s metabolism. In some cases, it may be an early sign of insulin resistance, which is closely connected to kidney problems. While it can also happen from shaving or irritation, if it appears suddenly or gets worse, it’s smart to get it checked out. Your skin can sometimes reflect what’s going on inside.

Stool is another important indicator of your overall health — and it often says more than we think. Here’s what you need to know about what your stool might be trying to tell you.