Kidney disease or chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition that occurs when your kidneys stop working properly or at full capacity.

CKD affects how well your body functions, leading to a buildup of waste and toxins in your blood that can damage various organs and body systems.

Many people with kidney disease do not show any symptoms in the early stages, and it may take years or even decades before the condition is diagnosed. However, there are some warning signs and red flags that may indicate kidney disease.

Here are 30 signs that you may have kidney disease.

General Symptoms

1. Fatigue and weakness

If your kidneys are not working efficiently, you may feel constantly tired and sluggish, even after a good night’s sleep.

2. Insomnia and sleep disturbances

Persistent sleep problems, such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, may be a sign of kidney disease. You may also feel restless and wake up frequently during the night.

3. Anemia

Anemia occurs when your body does not have enough red blood cells, which can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and weakness.

4. Swelling in the feet and ankles

If your kidneys are not functioning properly, fluids may accumulate in your body, causing swelling in your feet and ankles. This condition is known as edema.

5. Dry and itchy skin

When your kidneys are damaged, they are unable to filter waste and toxins out of your blood, which can lead to dry and itchy skin.

Urinary Symptoms

6. Frequent urination

If you notice that you are urinating more often than usual, this may be a sign of kidney disease. This can also be accompanied by needing to urinate urgently.

7. Decreased urine output

If you notice that you are producing less urine than usual, or if your urine is dark and concentrated, this may be a sign of kidney disease.

8. Blood in the urine

If you notice blood in your urine, this may be a sign of kidney disease. The blood may be visible to the naked eye, or it may only be visible under a microscope.

9. Painful urination

If you experience pain or discomfort during urination, this may be a sign of kidney disease. Pain may be accompanied by a burning sensation.

10. Overnight urination

If you need to get up frequently during the night to urinate, this may be a sign of kidney disease.

Digestive Symptoms

11. Nausea and vomiting

When your kidneys are not functioning properly, waste and toxins can build up in your blood, leading to nausea and vomiting.

12. Diarrhea and constipation

Kidney disease can affect your digestive system, leading to both diarrhea and constipation.

13. Loss of appetite

If you suddenly lose your appetite and feel less interested in food, this may be a sign of kidney disease.

14. Difficulty concentrating

If you find it challenging to concentrate on tasks, remember important information, or think clearly, this may be a sign of kidney disease.

15. Shortness of breath

If you suddenly feel out of breath, even after minimal physical activity, this may be a sign of kidney disease.

Muscular Symptoms

16. Muscle cramps and twitches

If you experience muscle cramps or twitches, particularly in your legs, this may be a sign of kidney disease.

17. Muscle weakness

If your muscles feel weak or you feel less able to perform daily activities, this may be a sign of kidney disease.

18. Restless leg syndrome

If you feel an uncontrollable urge to move your legs, especially at night, this may be a sign of kidney disease.

Cardiovascular Symptoms

19. High blood pressure

If you have high blood pressure that does not respond to medication or lifestyle changes, this may be a sign of kidney disease.

20. Chest pain

If you experience chest pain or pressure, this may be a sign of heart disease related to kidney disease.

21. Irregular heartbeat

Irregular or rapid heartbeat may be a sign of cardiovascular disease related to kidney disease.

22. Swelling in the legs and hands

Kidney disease can cause fluid buildup in your body, leading to swelling in the hands and legs.

Neurological Symptoms

23. Headaches and migraines

If you suffer from headaches or migraines, particularly if they occur frequently, this may be a sign of kidney disease.

24. Seizures and convulsions

In rare cases, kidney disease can lead to seizures and convulsions, particularly among those with a history of epilepsy.

25. Dizziness and fainting

If you feel lightheaded, dizzy, or faint frequently, this may be a sign of kidney disease.

Blood Symptoms

26. High blood sugar

If you have high blood sugar levels, this may be a sign of kidney disease. Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease in the United States and worldwide.

27. High cholesterol and low blood counts

Kidney disease can cause changes in your blood counts, including high cholesterol levels and low red and white blood cell counts.

28. Abnormal blood clotting

Kidney disease can increase your risk of abnormal blood clotting, which can lead to deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or stroke.

Mental Symptoms

29. Depression and anxiety

Kidney disease can affect your mental health, leading to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and mood swings.

30. Cognitive impairment and memory loss

If you experience cognitive impairment, including difficulty remembering things or concentrating, or if you experience memory loss, this may be a sign of kidney disease.

If you experience any of these signs or symptoms, it is important to consult with your doctor. Early detection and treatment of kidney disease can help prevent or delay the progression of the condition.