Your kidneys help control how much water stays in your body. When they aren’t working well, extra water can build up in your tissues, causing swelling.
You might see puffiness around your eyes, or your ankles, feet, or hands might look puffy. Sometimes, your shoes or rings might feel tighter than usual. This swelling tends to get worse later in the day or after you’ve been sitting or standing for a while.
If you notice this kind of swelling, it’s a good idea to get checked by a doctor. Your kidneys also clean waste out of your blood. When they stop working properly, waste builds up in your body, which can cause your skin to become very dry and itchy, or develop rashes.
This itchiness might happen all over your body and doesn’t usually come from a skin allergy. If your skin feels really itchy or you see rashes that won’t go away, it might be a sign that your kidneys need attention. According to the National Kidney Foundation, about 1 out of 3 grown-ups in America could be at risk for kidney disease, but many don’t realize it.
Catching kidney issues early can make a big difference. Here are five warning signs that might mean your kidneys aren’t working properly, even if they seem small or easy to miss. Kidney damage can happen quietly, without showing any obvious signs at first. These important organs, each about the size of your fist, help clean your blood by removing waste and extra fluids. They also help keep things like salt and water balanced and control your blood pressure.
Sadly, kidney problems are often called a “silent killer” because people might not notice any symptoms until the disease is quite advanced. Sometimes, people think these changes are just because they’re drinking less water or have a small infection, but if they keep happening, it’s important to see a doctor. It might mean your kidneys aren’t working as they should. One of the first signs that something is wrong with your kidneys is feeling extremely tired or weak all the time.
Healthy kidneys make a hormone that helps your body make red blood cells, which carry oxygen to your muscles and organs. When the kidneys aren’t working right, they make less of this hormone, so your body doesn’t have enough red blood cells. This can make you feel tired, out of breath, or unable to concentrate. If you notice you need more naps or feel weaker than usual, tell a grown-up or doctor.
