Your kidneys perform several essential functions in your body. Their primary function is to clean your blood, eliminating toxins, waste, and excess water as urine. If your kidneys lose their function, waste can build up in your blood, making you ill.

In recognition of World Kidney Day on 13 March 2025, we examine some signs and symptoms to identify if your kidneys are in trouble and when to seek help.

The work that the kidneys do.

In addition to filtering waste and excess water from the blood, your kidneys make red blood cells, hormones that control blood pressure and keep your bones strong. Another function your kidneys manage is balancing the amount of electrolytes and minerals in your body.

What is chronic kidney disease?

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an indication that kidney function is impaired. Damage to the kidneys causes them not to work as well as they should. CKD can cause kidney failure (end-stage kidney disease). However, some people may not develop kidney failure.

Although there is no cure for kidney disease, you can take steps to slow kidney damage. Some treatments, like transplantation and dialysis, are options for kidney failure. This disease can worsen without treatment, so staying on top of it is crucial.

Signs you might have Chronic Kidney Disease.

Dry and itchy skin: Dry and itchy skin can occur when your kidneys cannot maintain the correct balance of minerals and nutrients in your blood.

Tiredness, weakness, or fatigue: A severe decrease in kidney function can create a buildup of impurities and toxins in the blood, which can cause difficulty concentrating, tiredness, and weakness. Anaemia is another complication of kidney disease and can also cause weakness and fatigue.

Swollen hands, ankles, or feet: Impaired kidney function can lead to sodium retention, which can cause swelling in the feet and ankles. 

Frequent urination or foamy urine: Damage to the kidneys’ filters can increase the urge to urinate. Foam indicates too much protein in the urine.

Blood in urine: When the kidney’s filters are damaged, blood cells can leak into the urine.

Muscle cramps: The kidneys balance the body’s electrolytes and minerals. When kidney function is impaired, it can cause electrolyte imbalances.

Puffy eyes: Puffiness around your eyes can result from your kidneys leaking a large amount of protein in the urine instead of keeping it in the body.

Difficulty sleeping: Sleep apnea may hurt your kidneys by preventing your body from getting enough oxygen.

If you notice signs or symptoms that your kidneys might not function optimally, consult your doctor. You can use Find Yello to search for nephrologists, hospitals, and general practitioners with services to help you.

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Sources: Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, WebMD, Better Health, and National Kidney Foundation.