7 Signs Your Kidneys May Not Be Working Properly

Many people are surprised to learn that chronic kidney disease (CKD) often develops silently. In fact, most patients with early kidney disease have no symptoms at all.

Because the kidneys are responsible for filtering waste, regulating blood pressure, balancing electrolytes, and maintaining fluid balance, problems with kidney function can affect many different parts of the body.

Here are seven signs that may suggest your kidneys are not working properly.

1. High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is both a cause and a consequence of kidney disease.

If your blood pressure remains elevated despite taking medication, it may be a sign that your kidneys are contributing to the problem. Resistant hypertension is one of the most common reasons patients are referred to a nephrologist.

2. Protein in the Urine

Protein should normally stay in the bloodstream. When the kidney filters become damaged, protein can leak into the urine.

Protein in the urine often causes no symptoms and is usually detected on routine laboratory testing. It is one of the earliest signs of kidney disease and deserves further evaluation.

3. Swelling in the Legs, Ankles, or Around the Eyes

When the kidneys cannot effectively remove excess salt and fluid, swelling can develop.

You may notice:

• Swelling of the feet or ankles

• Puffiness around the eyes

• Unexplained weight gain from fluid retention

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4. Changes in Urination

Pay attention to changes such as:

• Foamy urine

• Blood in the urine

• Frequent nighttime urination

• Decreased urine output

These symptoms may indicate kidney disease or another urinary tract problem.

5. Fatigue and Low Energy

The kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin, which helps your body make red blood cells.

When kidney function declines, anemia can develop, leading to:

• Fatigue

• Weakness

• Shortness of breath

• Reduced exercise tolerance

6. Diabetes

Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease in the United States.

Even if your kidney function appears normal, diabetes can cause kidney damage years before symptoms develop. Regular monitoring of urine protein and kidney function is essential.

7. A Family History of Kidney Disease

Some kidney diseases run in families, including:

• Polycystic kidney disease

• Alport syndrome

• Certain causes of kidney failure

If a close relative has kidney disease, you may benefit from screening even if you feel well.

When Should You See a Kidney Specialist?

You should consider seeing a nephrologist if you have:

• Persistent protein in the urine

• Reduced kidney function

• Difficult-to-control high blood pressure

• Recurrent kidney stones

• Electrolyte abnormalities

• A family history of kidney disease

Early evaluation can often help slow or even prevent progression of kidney disease.

Kidney Care in the Portland Metro Area

At Optima Kidney & Metabolic Care, we help patients throughout Sherwood, Tualatin, Tigard, Wilsonville, Lake Oswego, Beaverton, and the greater Portland area evaluate and manage kidney disease, proteinuria, high blood pressure, and metabolic conditions.

If you are concerned about your kidney health, schedule an appointment to discuss your laboratory results and develop a personalized plan to protect your kidneys.