Early signs of kidney disease
you should not ignore

Learn about the early signs of kidney disease and understand why early detection is essential. From fatigue to swelling, your body may be giving you a warning; here is what to look out for. Kidney disease often develops silently. Most patients do not realize they have a problem until it has advanced, and the symptoms become more complex to manage. That is why recognizing early signs is critical—early detection and treatment can help slow the progression and protect your kidney function.


Here are seven of the most common early warning signs of kidney disease you should not ignore:

Fatigue and Low Energy

Healthy kidneys filter waste from your blood. When they are not functioning correctly, toxins can accumulate, leading to fatigue and decreased capacity to concentrate. If you are feeling unusually fatigued or weak, it might be more than just a busy week.

Swollen Ankles and Feet

When kidney function declines, your body may retain excess fluids—especially in your lower limbs. This swelling, known as “edema,” is often one of the first physical signs of a kidney disease.

Swollen face and Puffiness Around the Eyes

Persistent puffiness, especially in the morning, may indicate protein is leaking into your urine due to damaged kidneys.

Loss of Appetite or Metallic Taste

A buildup of waste in the blood (uremia) can cause food to taste different or even lead to bad breath. Some patients also experience nausea or vomiting.

Muscle Cramps

Imbalances in electrolytes such as calcium and phosphorus—regulated by your kidneys—can cause painful muscle cramps.

Changes in Urination

Keep an eye on any changes in how often or how much you urinate. These symptoms include:

– Increased frequency, especially at night
– Foamy or bubbly urine (a sign of protein leakage)
– Blood in the urine
– Dark or tea-colored urine
– Difficulty or pain while urinating

Itchy, Dry Skin

Healthy kidneys balance minerals and fluids in your body and help make red blood cells. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can lead to *mineral imbalances* and dry, itchy skin.

When to See a Specialist

If you notice one or more of these symptoms—especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease**—consult a nephrologist. Early evaluation through simple blood and urine tests can make an enormous difference.

Take a Preventive Step Today

At NY Kidney and Hypertension Medicine (NYKHM), we specialize in preventive kidney care, early diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans to help you maintain optimal kidney function. Whether you are managing a chronic condition or just being proactive, we are here to support your kidney health every step of the way.

Schedule your kidney health screening today.

Call us at (718) 899-0060.

Visit our website for more information www.nykhm.com.