Kidney failure, also known as renal failure, occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to function properly. This can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste products and excess fluids from the blood, regulating electrolyte levels, and maintaining overall fluid balance in the body. When they fail, harmful toxins and waste products can accumulate, leading to various signs and symptoms. Recognizing these signs early on can help in timely diagnosis and management of kidney failure.

In this article, we will discuss 15 common signs to watch out for that may indicate kidney failure.

1. Fatigue and weakness

Feeling tired and lacking energy is a common symptom of kidney failure. As the kidneys fail, they become less efficient in removing waste products from the bloodstream, leading to a buildup of toxins that can make you feel exhausted.

2. Decreased urine output

If you notice a significant decrease in the amount of urine you produce, it could be a sign of kidney failure. Healthy kidneys filter waste and excess fluid, producing urine. When the kidneys are damaged, urine production decreases.

3. Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet

Kidney failure can cause fluid retention, resulting in swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet. This swelling, also known as edema, occurs due to the kidneys’ inability to remove excess sodium and fluid from the body.

4. Shortness of breath

As fluid accumulates in the lungs due to kidney failure, it can lead to difficulty breathing. Shortness of breath can occur even with minimal physical exertion and may worsen when lying down.

5. Increased or decreased urination

Kidney failure can affect urine production, leading to changes in urination patterns. Some individuals may notice an increased urge to urinate, while others may experience a decrease or complete cessation of urination.

6. Foamy or bubbly urine

Healthy urine is usually clear and without any noticeable bubbles or foam. However, in kidney failure, protein may leak into the urine, causing it to appear foamy or bubbly.

7. Blood in urine

One of the most alarming signs of kidney failure is the presence of blood in the urine, a condition referred to as hematuria. This can be a result of damage to the kidneys’ blood vessels or the presence of kidney stones.

8. Persistent itchiness

Itchy skin that persists and is unrelated to any visible skin condition can be a sign of kidney failure. When the kidneys fail to eliminate waste products from the body, they can build up and cause skin irritation and itching.

9. Nausea and vomiting

The accumulation of waste products in the bloodstream can lead to nausea and vomiting. These symptoms can also result from electrolyte imbalances caused by kidney failure.

10. Metallic taste in the mouth

Some individuals with kidney failure may experience a persistent, unpleasant metallic taste in their mouth, which can affect their appetite and enjoyment of food. This taste is often a result of the buildup of waste products in the blood.

11. Muscle cramps and twitches

Kidney failure can disrupt the balance of electrolytes, such as potassium and calcium, in the body, leading to muscle cramps and twitches. These involuntary muscle contractions can be painful and affect various muscle groups.

12. Difficulty concentrating and mental fog

As waste products accumulate in the bloodstream, they can affect brain function and lead to difficulty concentrating, confusion, and mental fog. These cognitive changes can significantly impact daily life and overall well-being.

13. High blood pressure

Kidney failure can contribute to the development or worsening of high blood pressure. The kidneys play a role in regulating blood pressure by controlling fluid balance and producing hormones involved in blood pressure regulation.

14. Unexplained weight loss or weight gain

Changes in body weight, either an unexplained loss or gain, can be a warning sign of kidney failure. Fluid retention due to kidney failure can cause sudden weight gain, while unintentional weight loss may result from poor appetite and muscle wasting.

15. Paleness and shortness of breath

Anemia, a condition characterized by a decrease in red blood cell count, is common in kidney failure. This can lead to paleness of the skin and shortness of breath due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.