ALERT These are the signs that it is cre…See more

Healthy kidneys remove excess sodium and fluid from the body. When they stop functioning properly, fluid can accumulate in tissues.

This often causes swelling in:

Feet
Ankles
Lower legs
Hands
Face
Around the eyes
Many people notice puffiness around the eyes first thing in the morning.

Swelling can also be associated with heart disease and other conditions, making medical evaluation important.

4. Puffiness Around the Eyes
Although facial swelling can occur for many reasons, persistent puffiness around the eyes may signal protein loss through the urine.

Healthy kidneys normally prevent important proteins from leaving the bloodstream. Damaged kidneys may allow these proteins to escape into the urine, resulting in fluid retention and swelling.

If puffy eyes become a regular occurrence rather than an occasional issue caused by poor sleep, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider.

5. Persistent Itching
Many people are surprised to learn that itchy skin can be linked to kidney disease.

As kidney function declines, waste products accumulate in the bloodstream. This buildup can lead to:

Dry skin
Severe itching
Skin irritation
Discomfort that worsens at night
Mineral imbalances associated with kidney disease can further contribute to chronic itching.

Persistent unexplained itching should not be dismissed, especially if accompanied by other symptoms.

6. Shortness of Breath
Difficulty breathing may be connected to kidney problems in two major ways.

First, excess fluid can accumulate in the lungs when the kidneys fail to remove enough fluid from the body.

Second, anemia caused by kidney disease can reduce oxygen delivery, leaving you feeling breathless even during light activities.

Shortness of breath can be a serious symptom requiring immediate medical evaluation, particularly if it develops suddenly.

7. High Blood Pressure
The relationship between kidney disease and high blood pressure is complex.

Kidney damage can cause hypertension, while uncontrolled hypertension can also damage the kidneys.

This creates a dangerous cycle:

High blood pressure damages kidney blood vessels.
Kidney function declines.
Blood pressure rises further.
Additional kidney damage occurs.
Many individuals discover kidney problems during routine blood pressure checks.

Maintaining healthy blood pressure is one of the most effective ways to protect kidney function.

8. Loss of Appetite