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| Meta Title | 10 Signs You May Have Kidney Disease | National Kidney Foundation |
| Meta Description | Kidney disease affects more than 35 million Americans. 90% don't know they have it. Learn the symptoms, risk factors, and how to get tested for early detection. |
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| Boilerpipe Text | December 17, 2020
An estimated 35.5 million U.S. adults have kidney disease. Most don’t know they have it. While the only way to know if you have kidney disease is to get tested, there are signs to watch for.
Kidney Disease Risk Factors
If you’re at risk for kidney disease due to
high blood pressure
,
diabetes
, a family history of kidney failure, or if you’re older than age 60, it’s important to get tested annually for kidney disease.
“There are a number of physical signs of kidney disease, but sometimes people attribute them to other conditions,” said Dr. Joseph Vassalotti, Chief Medical Officer at the NKF. “Those with kidney disease tend not to experience symptoms until the very late stages, when the kidneys are failing or when there are large amounts of protein in the urine. This is one of the reasons why only 10% of people with chronic kidney disease know that they have it.”
Are you at risk of kidney disease?
Take this one-minute quiz to find out
.
Kidney Disease Testing
1. Less Energy or Trouble Concentrating
A severe decrease in kidney function can lead to a buildup of toxins and impurities in the blood. This can cause people to feel tired or weak and can make it hard to concentrate. Another complication of kidney disease is anemia, which can cause weakness and fatigue.
Learn more about anemia
.
2. Trouble sleeping
When the kidneys aren't filtering properly, toxins stay in the blood rather than leaving the body through the urine. This can make it difficult to sleep. There is also a link between
obesity
and chronic kidney disease, and sleep apnea is more common in those with kidney disease, compared with the general population.
 3. Dry and itchy skin
Healthy kidneys do many important jobs. They remove wastes and extra fluid from your body, help make red blood cells, keep bones strong, and work to maintain the right amount of minerals in your blood. Dry and itchy skin can be a sign of the mineral and bone disease that often accompanies advanced kidney disease, or when the kidneys are no longer able to keep the right balance of minerals and nutrients in your blood.
Learn more about itchy skin and kidney disease
.
Join the NKF Blog Newsletter
Get inspirational stories and kidney disease resources delivered to your inbox every month. You'll gain practical insights and expert advice to help you better understand and manage your kidney health no matter where you are on your kidney journey. Subscribe today.
4.
Urinating more frequently
If you feel the need to urinate more often, especially at night, this can be a sign of kidney disease. When the kidney's filters are damaged, it can cause an increase in the urge to urinate. Sometimes this can also be a sign of a urinary infection or enlarged prostate in men.
5. Blood in urine
Healthy kidneys typically keep the blood cells in the body when filtering wastes from the blood to create urine, but when the kidney's filters have been damaged, these blood cells can start to "leak" out into the urine. In addition to signaling kidney disease, blood in the urine can be indicative of tumors, kidney stones, or an infection.
Learn more about blood in urine
.
6. Foamy urine
Excessive bubbles in the urine – especially those that require you to flush several times before they go away—indicate protein in the urine. This foam may look like the foam you see when scrambling eggs, as the common protein found in urine, albumin, is the same protein that is found in eggs.
7. Persistent puffiness around eyes
Protein in the urine is an early sign that the kidneys’ filters have been damaged, allowing protein to leak into the urine. This puffiness around your eyes can be due to the fact that your kidneys are leaking a large amount of protein in the urine, rather than keeping it in the body.
8. Swollen ankles and feet
Decreased kidney function can lead to sodium (salt) retention, causing swelling in your feet and ankles. Swelling in the lower extremities can also be a sign of heart disease, liver disease and chronic leg vein problems.
Learn more about salt and kidney disease
.
Â
One day, no one’s life will be lost to kidney disease.
Extraordinary progress is made possible by YOU. Your gift today will help revolutionize kidney health and transform lives for the next 75 years and beyond by helping to:
Equip patients and families with knowledge, resources, and access to high-quality care.
Advocate for policies that address disparities and prioritize kidney health for all.
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This content is provided for informational use only and is not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for the medical advice of a healthcare professional.
© 2026 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. |
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[From World Traveler to Dialysis Chair: Lessons in Not Giving Up](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/world-traveler-to-dialysis-chair-lessons-not-giving)
[How the Ransome Family Is Raising Awareness about Childhood Kidney Disease](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/how-ransome-family-raising-awareness-about-childhood-kidney-disease)
[Strength in Sharing: “There’s Power in Telling Your Kidney Story.”](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/strength-sharing-there-s-power-telling-your-kidney-story)
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[Actor Erròn Jay’s Kidney Transplant and His Mission to Inspire Living Donors](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/actor-erron-jay-s-kidney-transplant-and-his-mission-to-inspire-living-donors)
[Award-Winning Director Turns Kidney Failure Battle into a Mission for Awareness](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/award-winning-director-turns-kidney-failure-battle-mission-awareness)
[He Needed a Kidney. She Answered an Email and Changed His Life Forever](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/he-needed-kidney-she-answered-email-and-changed-his-life-forever)
[Florida Scuba Diver Instructor Donates A Kidney to a Child He’d Never Met](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/florida-scuba-diver-instructor-donates-kidney-to-child-he-d-never-met)
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[Image  Insurance Insurance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Learn about insurance options and choosing a plan that is right for you.](https://www.kidney.org/subject/health-insurance)
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[Image  Vaccine Information As a dialysis patient or transplant recipient you may be wondering — are vaccines safe for me? Do I need them?](https://www.kidney.org/subject/vaccination)
[Image  Nutrition Learn about a kidney-friendly diet, so you can stay healthy with kidney disease whether you are at home or dining out.](https://www.kidney.org/nutrition-old-nov-25)
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## Featured Topics
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[Image  Resources & Get Involved Get connected for support on your transplant journey.](https://www.kidney.org/transplantation#resources)
## Featured Topics
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- [Living Kidney Donor Evaluation](https://www.kidney.org/node/24335)
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- [What to Expect After Donation](https://www.kidney.org/transplantation/what-to-expect-after-donation)
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[Image  Learn More About Living Donation Dive deep with videos and donor stories in the Kidney Learning Center.](https://learningcenter.kidney.org/spa/courses/resource/becoming-a-living-donor/curriculum/home/default)
[Image  Ready to take the next step? Get started with information on how to connect with a transplant center.](https://www.kidney.org/transplantation/how-to-donate)
[Image  Resources & Get Involved Get connected with others who have donated a kidney.](https://www.kidney.org/transplantation#resources)
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[Image  Professional Education Resource Center CME/CE courses designed for professionals committed to improving patient outcomes.](https://cme.kidney.org/spa/courses/catalog/nkf/home?_gl=1*1sv6jjj*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3NDQ0MDM2OTAuQ2p3S0NBanctLUtfQmhCNUVpd0F1d1lveXI2RWNFNmJQcG1EblRpNmJ4aHd4TlJQcm9Qd09ZeFVxN0U5TzY2OXZnR2V6VlY0cGtpWklCb0NieGtRQXZEX0J3RQ..*_gcl_au*MjEwMjkxODMxNi4xNzQxNzkyMjM1LjE3MzYwMDg1NTUuMTc0OTE1MDg1MS4xNzQ5MTUxMTIx)
[Image  Kidney Commute Podcast Providing connection through education and serving as an innovative opportunity to fulfill CE requirements.](https://www.kidney.org/podcasts/kidney-commute)
[Image  Spring Clinical Meetings NKF’s premiere educational event for the interprofessional kidney health team.](https://www.kidney.org/spring-clinical)
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[Image  Grants Access information on available grants and open applications.](https://www.kidney.org/professionals/grants)
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## Latest Research
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[Image  Research Access grant opportunities, KDOQI Clinical Practice Guidelines, and clinical trial information.](https://www.kidney.org/professionals/research)
What is CKDintercept?
A groundbreaking initiative from the National Kidney Foundation to improve chronic kidney disease (CKD) testing, recognition, and management in primary care.
[Image  Learn More About CKDintercept Only 10% of people living with CKD are aware that they have CKD.](https://www.kidney.org/professionals/ckdintercept)
[Image  CKDintercept National Overview NKF and partners will develop local road maps to drive a cultural shift in primary care.](https://www.kidney.org/professionals/ckdintercept/overview)
[Image  CKD Change Package A systematic approach to transform CKD care, advance health equity, and improve health care quality.](https://www.kidney.org/professionals/ckdintercept/ckd-change-package)
What is KDOQI?
KDOQI (Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative) is world renowned for improving the diagnosis and treatment of kidney disease, these guidelines have changed the practices of healthcare professionals and improved thousands of lives.
## Tools & Resources
- [Guidelines and Commentaries](https://www.ajkd.org/content/kdoqiguidelines)
- [Guideline Development Process](https://www.kidney.org/professionals/kdoqi/guideline-development-process)
- [Patient Centered Quality Measures](https://www.kidney.org/professionals/kdoqi/patient-centered-quality-measures-kidney-care)
[Learn more about KDOQI](https://www.kidney.org/professionals/kdoqi)
[Image  Vascular Access Guidelines And Implementation Tools Comprehensive slide decks created by interdisciplinary experts.](https://www.kidney.org/professionals/kdoqi/guidelines-and-commentaries/vascular-access)
[Image  KDOQI App Download now to access guidelines and commentaries at your fingertips.](https://www.kidney.org/apps/kdoqi-app)
## Featured Tools
- [CKD Heat Map](https://www.kidney.org/sites/default/files/heat_map_card.pdf)
- [Kidney Disease Stages](https://www.kidney.org/sites/default/files/01-10-7278_HBG_CKD_Stages_Flyer3.pdf)
- [Medium Cut-Off Dialyzers for Expanded Hemodialysis](https://www.kidney.org/sites/default/files/2025-04/742-0015_2503_medcutoffdialyzers_bulletin4.pdf)
- [Phosphorus for Dialysis Patients](https://www.kidney.org/sites/default/files/01-10-7073_FBF_Phosphorus_Card2.pdf)
- [CKD Change Package](https://www.kidney.org/sites/default/files/11.30.2023_622-9567_2310_ckd_changepackv10.pdf)
- [The Interconnectedness of CKD, Systemic Inflammation, and ASCVD](https://www.kidney.org/professionals/tools/interconnectedness-ckd-systemic-inflammation-ascvd_old)
[See all Clinician Tools](https://www.kidney.org/professionals/tools)
[Image  eGFR Calculator Use our GFR calculators to estimate GFR for adults or children.](https://www.kidney.org/professionals/kdoqi/gfr_calculator)
[Image  Living Donation Business Case Toolkit Learn more about how to grow your living kidney donation program.](https://www.kidney.org/professionals/living-donation-business-case-toolkit)
[Image  KDOQI App Download now to access guidelines and commentaries at your fingertips.](https://www.kidney.org/apps/kdoqi-app)
[Image  Vascular Access Guidelines And Implementation Tools Comprehensive slide decks created by interdisciplinary experts.](https://www.kidney.org/professionals/kdoqi/guidelines-and-commentaries/vascular-access)
- [Take Action](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease)

####

- [Take Action](https://www.kidney.org/take-action)
- [Fundraising Events](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease)
- [Fundraise Your Way](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease)
- [Corporate Support](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease)
- [Volunteer](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease)
[Image  Kidney Walk Participate in NKF's Kidney Walk and fundraise to make a lasting impact for patients, families, and people at risk. Find a Walk near you.](https://www.kidneywalk.org/)
[Image  NKF Golf Classic Join thousands of professionals at the Premier Amateur Golf Event for Charity — held at some of the nation's most exclusive courses. Find a tournament near you.](https://www.kidney.org/take-action/nkf-golf-classic)
[Image  Social Events Attend a premier culinary event, meet the most recognizable names in literature, or honor those who help drive life-changing breakthroughs. Find an event near you.](https://www.kidney.org/get-involved/signature-events)
[Image  Create a Fundraiser Celebrate milestones or use your passions and hobbies to bring hope to the 37 million Americans battling kidney disease.](https://teamkidney.rallybound.org/)
[Image  Kidney Walk Your Way Kidney Walk your way is your chance to be a part of our Kidney Walk community on a date and location of your choice by doing an activity you love\!](https://www.kidneywalk.org/yourway)
[Image  Stream for Kidney Health Join the Team Kidney Streams community to help raise important funds and awareness while livestreaming what you love.](https://tiltify.com/national-kidney-foundation)
[Image  Become a Corporate Partner Learn more about how your company can influence the future of kidney disease.](https://www.kidney.org/get-involved/become-a-partner)
[Image  Circle of Excellence An employer recognition program dedicated to eliminating barriers to living donation.](https://www.kidney.org/get-involved/circle-excellence)
[Image  Corporate Wellness Solutions A suite of tools to support organizations in advancing kidney health and overall wellbeing among their employees.](https://www.kidney.org/take-action/corporate-wellness-employers)
[Image  Be an Advocate Take action and use your voice on behalf of kidney patients with local and national government.](https://www.kidney.org/advocacy)
[Image  Volunteer Opportunities Your skills and interests can help build healthier communities, spread the word, and create real change. Find an opportunity near you.](https://www.kidney.org/get-involved/volunteer#search)
- [Ways to Give](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease)

####

- [Ways to Give](https://www.kidney.org/ways-to-give)
- [Donate Online](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease)
- [Philanthropy](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease)
- [More Ways to Give](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease)
[Image  Become a Monthly Donor Become a Change Maker—give monthly to support critical programs in the fight against kidney disease.](https://support.kidney.org/campaign/580848/donate?utm_source=kidney.org&utm_medium=Website&utm_content=Landing&utm_campaign=Evergreen_Donation_Campaign&amount=&c_src=GetInvolvedMonthly)
[Image  Donate Now Your gift today will help revolutionize kidney health and transform lives.](https://support.kidney.org/campaign/612763/donate?utm_source=kidney.org&utm_medium=Website&utm_content=GetInvolved&utm_campaign=Evergreen_Donation_Campaign&amount=&c_src=GetInvolvedDonate)
[Image  Memorial Giving Create a fundraiser in honor of your loved one.](https://kidneytribute.rallybound.org/)
[Image  Wills, Trusts and Legacy Giving Build your legacy to support families facing kidney disease.](https://www.kidney.org/content/planned-giving)
[Image  Donor Advised Funds (DAF) Make a flexible, tax-efficient gift through your Donor-Advised Fund (DAF).](https://www.freewill.com/daf/nkf)
[Image  IRA Charitable Rollover The savviest way for you to use your IRA to maximize your impact.](https://www.freewill.com/qcd/nkf)
[Image  Stock Gifts Make a gift of stock.](https://www.freewill.com/smartgiving/nkf?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=nkf_waystogivepg&product=STOCK_GIFT)
[Image  Donate by Mail or Phone Use our mail-in donation form to send your offline donation to NKF.](https://www.kidney.org/sites/default/files/023-9761_2404_donationform_final.pdf)
[Image  Donate Your Car Donate your old car, boat or tractor to help improve the lives of the millions,](https://www.kidney.org/support/kidneycars/)
[Image  Donate Real Estate Fight kidney disease with a gift of property.](https://kidney.careasy.org/real-estate-donation)
[Image  Donate Crypto More ways to fund our work while providing you with extra tax benefits.](https://www.freewill.com/smartgiving/nkf?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=nkf_waystogivepg&product=CRYPTO)
[Image  Match Your Donation Double, or even triple, your donation with a matching gift from your employer.](https://www.kidney.org/matchinggifts)
- [About NKF](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease)

####

- [About NKF](https://www.kidney.org/about)
- [Diversity, Equity, Inclusion](https://www.kidney.org/about/diversity-equity-inclusion)
- [Press Room](https://www.kidney.org/pressroom)
- [Kidney Equity for All](https://www.kidney.org/about/kidney-equity-for-all)
- [Careers](https://www.kidney.org/about/careers)
- [NKF Leadership](https://www.kidney.org/about/leadership)
- [Contact Us](https://www.kidney.org/about/contact-us)
- [Local Offices](https://www.kidney.org/offices)
- [Kidney Disease: Fact Sheet](https://www.kidney.org/about/kidney-disease-fact-sheet)
## Breadcrumb
1. [Home](https://www.kidney.org/)
2. [News and Stories](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories)
3. 10 Signs You May Have Kidney Disease
# 10 Signs You May Have Kidney Disease
Back to Top
[Diseases and conditions](https://www.kidney.org/subject/diseases-and-conditions) [Signs and symptoms](https://www.kidney.org/subject/signs-and-symptoms)
December 17, 2020

An estimated 35.5 million U.S. adults have kidney disease. Most don’t know they have it. While the only way to know if you have kidney disease is to get tested, there are signs to watch for.
### Table of Contents
- [Kidney Disease Risk Factors](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease#kidney-disease-risk-factors "Kidney Disease Risk Factors")
- [Kidney Disease Testing](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease#kidney-disease-testing "Kidney Disease Testing")
- [10 Signs of Kidney Disease](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease#10-signs-kidney-disease "10 Signs of Kidney Disease")
## Kidney Disease Risk Factors
If you’re at risk for kidney disease due to [high blood pressure](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-health/high-blood-pressure?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs), [diabetes](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-health/diabetes?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs), a family history of kidney failure, or if you’re older than age 60, it’s important to get tested annually for kidney disease.
“There are a number of physical signs of kidney disease, but sometimes people attribute them to other conditions,” said Dr. Joseph Vassalotti, Chief Medical Officer at the NKF. “Those with kidney disease tend not to experience symptoms until the very late stages, when the kidneys are failing or when there are large amounts of protein in the urine. This is one of the reasons why only 10% of people with chronic kidney disease know that they have it.”
Are you at risk of kidney disease? [Take this one-minute quiz to find out](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-quiz/?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs).
## Kidney Disease Testing
Two easy tests help determine if you have kidney disease or not;
- [Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/estimated-glomerular-filtration-rate-egfr?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs): Blood test that estimates how well the kidneys function.
- [Urine albumin-creatinine ratio (uACR)](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/urine-albumin-creatinine-ratio-uacr?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs): Urine test that measures albumin (a protein) and creatinine, a waste product.
[Learn more about kidney disease testing](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/kidney-health-101-making-sense-kidney-tests-and-lab-results?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs).

## Your kidney health is unique. Your path should be too.
[Get Started](https://kidney.org/ckd-journey)
## 10 Signs of Kidney Disease
### 1\. Less Energy or Trouble Concentrating
A severe decrease in kidney function can lead to a buildup of toxins and impurities in the blood. This can cause people to feel tired or weak and can make it hard to concentrate. Another complication of kidney disease is anemia, which can cause weakness and fatigue.
[Learn more about anemia](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/anemia-and-chronic-kidney-disease?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs).
### **2\. Trouble sleeping**
When the kidneys aren't filtering properly, toxins stay in the blood rather than leaving the body through the urine. This can make it difficult to sleep. There is also a link between [obesity](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/overweight-obesity?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs) and chronic kidney disease, and sleep apnea is more common in those with kidney disease, compared with the general population.
### **3\. Dry and itchy skin**
Healthy kidneys do many important jobs. They remove wastes and extra fluid from your body, help make red blood cells, keep bones strong, and work to maintain the right amount of minerals in your blood. Dry and itchy skin can be a sign of the mineral and bone disease that often accompanies advanced kidney disease, or when the kidneys are no longer able to keep the right balance of minerals and nutrients in your blood.
[Learn more about itchy skin and kidney disease](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/itching-and-kidney-disease?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs).
## Join the NKF Blog Newsletter
Get inspirational stories and kidney disease resources delivered to your inbox every month. You'll gain practical insights and expert advice to help you better understand and manage your kidney health no matter where you are on your kidney journey. Subscribe today.
### 4\. Urinating more frequently
If you feel the need to urinate more often, especially at night, this can be a sign of kidney disease. When the kidney's filters are damaged, it can cause an increase in the urge to urinate. Sometimes this can also be a sign of a urinary infection or enlarged prostate in men.
### 5\. Blood in urine
Healthy kidneys typically keep the blood cells in the body when filtering wastes from the blood to create urine, but when the kidney's filters have been damaged, these blood cells can start to "leak" out into the urine. In addition to signaling kidney disease, blood in the urine can be indicative of tumors, kidney stones, or an infection.
[Learn more about blood in urine](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/hematuria-adults?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs).
### 6\. Foamy urine
Excessive bubbles in the urine – especially those that require you to flush several times before they go away—indicate protein in the urine. This foam may look like the foam you see when scrambling eggs, as the common protein found in urine, albumin, is the same protein that is found in eggs.
### 7\. Persistent puffiness around eyes
Protein in the urine is an early sign that the kidneys’ filters have been damaged, allowing protein to leak into the urine. This puffiness around your eyes can be due to the fact that your kidneys are leaking a large amount of protein in the urine, rather than keeping it in the body.
### 8\. Swollen ankles and feet
Decreased kidney function can lead to sodium (salt) retention, causing swelling in your feet and ankles. Swelling in the lower extremities can also be a sign of heart disease, liver disease and chronic leg vein problems.
[Learn more about salt and kidney disease](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/sodium-and-your-ckd-diet-how-to-spice-your-cooking?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs).
## One day, no one’s life will be lost to kidney disease.
Extraordinary progress is made possible by YOU. Your gift today will help revolutionize kidney health and transform lives for the next 75 years and beyond by helping to:
- Equip patients and families with knowledge, resources, and access to high-quality care.
- Advocate for policies that address disparities and prioritize kidney health for all.
- Fund research and technology to advance early detection, improve treatment, and expand transplant access.
### **9\. Poor appetite**
This is a very general symptom, but a buildup of toxins resulting from reduced kidney function can be one of the causes.
[Find kidney-friendly nutrition tips and recipes](https://www.kidney.org/nutrition?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs).
### **10\. Muscle cramping**
Electrolyte imbalances can result from impaired kidney function. For example, low calcium levels and poorly controlled phosphorus may contribute to muscle cramping.
[Learn more about balancing the body's pH](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/balancing-body-s-ph-what-you-need-to-know-about-metabolic-acidosis?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs).
This content is provided for informational use only and is not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for the medical advice of a healthcare professional.
© 2026 National Kidney Foundation, Inc.
## Kidney Topics
[Hyponatremia (low sodium level in the blood) Diseases and conditions, Hyponatremia](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/hyponatremia-low-sodium-level-blood)
[Diabetes and Kidney Disease (Stages 1-4) Diseases and conditions, Kidney diseases and conditions, Diabetes, Early stage kidney disease](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/diabetes-and-kidney-disease-stages-1-4)
[What Is Dry Weight? Treatments and therapies, Diseases and conditions, Dialysis, Signs and symptoms, Hemodialysis, Fluid overload and edema](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/what-dry-weight)
[Stage 3a Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Diseases and conditions, Kidney diseases and conditions, Early stage kidney disease](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/stage-3a-chronic-kidney-disease-ckd)
[Kidney Stones Diseases and conditions, Kidney diseases and conditions, Kidney stones](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/kidney-stones)
[6-Step Guide to Protecting Kidney Health Diseases and conditions, Kidney diseases and conditions, Chronic kidney disease](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/6-step-guide-to-protecting-kidney-health)
#### Pagination
- [next](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease?page=1 "next")
[See More Kidney Topics](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics)
## News and Stories
[ July 31, 2025 News Events & Fundraising How NKF Got Here: Kidney Care in the 2000s](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/how-nkf-got-here-kidney-care-2000s)
[ June 05, 2025 News Events & Fundraising How NKF Got Here: Kidney Care in the 1990s](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/how-nkf-got-here-kidney-care-1990s)
[ May 03, 2017 Patient Stories Ada DeBold: How One Mother’s Love Saved Thousands of Lives](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/ada-debold-how-one-mother-s-love-saved-thousands-lives)
[ August 29, 2024 Patient Education Balancing the Body's pH: What You Need to Know About Metabolic Acidosis](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/balancing-body-s-ph-what-you-need-to-know-about-metabolic-acidosis)
[ February 16, 2023 Advocacy Patient Stories A Shocking Kidney Disease Diagnosis Leads to a Lifetime of Advocacy](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/shocking-kidney-disease-diagnosis-leads-to-lifetime-advocacy)
[ January 27, 2016 Prevention & Awareness 7 Tips to Protect Your Kidney & Heart Health](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/7-tips-to-protect-your-kidney-heart-health)
#### Pagination
- [next](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease?page=1 "next")
[See More News and Stories](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories)
## Recipes
[ Creamy Curry Rice & Apple Salad 1 hour](https://www.kidney.org/nutrition/recipes/creamy-curry-rice-apple-salad)
[ Chicken Pad Thai 1 hour 25 minutes](https://www.kidney.org/nutrition/recipes/chicken-pad-thai)
[ Avocado Garden Salad 20 minutes](https://www.kidney.org/nutrition/recipes/avocado-garden-salad)
[ Fruit Crisp 1 hour](https://www.kidney.org/nutrition/recipes/fruit-crisp)
[ Greek Orzo Salad 20 minutes](https://www.kidney.org/nutrition/recipes/greek-orzo-salad)
[ Italian Basil Chicken Sliders 1 hour](https://www.kidney.org/nutrition/recipes/italian-basil-chicken-sliders)
#### Pagination
- [next](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease?page=1 "next")
[See More Recipes](https://www.kidney.org/nutrition/recipes)
## Quick Links
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| Readable Markdown | December 17, 2020

An estimated 35.5 million U.S. adults have kidney disease. Most don’t know they have it. While the only way to know if you have kidney disease is to get tested, there are signs to watch for.
## Kidney Disease Risk Factors
If you’re at risk for kidney disease due to [high blood pressure](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-health/high-blood-pressure?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs), [diabetes](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-health/diabetes?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs), a family history of kidney failure, or if you’re older than age 60, it’s important to get tested annually for kidney disease.
“There are a number of physical signs of kidney disease, but sometimes people attribute them to other conditions,” said Dr. Joseph Vassalotti, Chief Medical Officer at the NKF. “Those with kidney disease tend not to experience symptoms until the very late stages, when the kidneys are failing or when there are large amounts of protein in the urine. This is one of the reasons why only 10% of people with chronic kidney disease know that they have it.”
Are you at risk of kidney disease? [Take this one-minute quiz to find out](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-quiz/?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs).
## Kidney Disease Testing
### 1\. Less Energy or Trouble Concentrating
A severe decrease in kidney function can lead to a buildup of toxins and impurities in the blood. This can cause people to feel tired or weak and can make it hard to concentrate. Another complication of kidney disease is anemia, which can cause weakness and fatigue.
[Learn more about anemia](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/anemia-and-chronic-kidney-disease?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs).
### **2\. Trouble sleeping**
When the kidneys aren't filtering properly, toxins stay in the blood rather than leaving the body through the urine. This can make it difficult to sleep. There is also a link between [obesity](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/overweight-obesity?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs) and chronic kidney disease, and sleep apnea is more common in those with kidney disease, compared with the general population.
### **3\. Dry and itchy skin**
Healthy kidneys do many important jobs. They remove wastes and extra fluid from your body, help make red blood cells, keep bones strong, and work to maintain the right amount of minerals in your blood. Dry and itchy skin can be a sign of the mineral and bone disease that often accompanies advanced kidney disease, or when the kidneys are no longer able to keep the right balance of minerals and nutrients in your blood.
[Learn more about itchy skin and kidney disease](https://www.kidney.org/news-stories/itching-and-kidney-disease?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs).
## Join the NKF Blog Newsletter
Get inspirational stories and kidney disease resources delivered to your inbox every month. You'll gain practical insights and expert advice to help you better understand and manage your kidney health no matter where you are on your kidney journey. Subscribe today.
### 4\. Urinating more frequently
If you feel the need to urinate more often, especially at night, this can be a sign of kidney disease. When the kidney's filters are damaged, it can cause an increase in the urge to urinate. Sometimes this can also be a sign of a urinary infection or enlarged prostate in men.
### 5\. Blood in urine
Healthy kidneys typically keep the blood cells in the body when filtering wastes from the blood to create urine, but when the kidney's filters have been damaged, these blood cells can start to "leak" out into the urine. In addition to signaling kidney disease, blood in the urine can be indicative of tumors, kidney stones, or an infection.
[Learn more about blood in urine](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/hematuria-adults?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs).
### 6\. Foamy urine
Excessive bubbles in the urine – especially those that require you to flush several times before they go away—indicate protein in the urine. This foam may look like the foam you see when scrambling eggs, as the common protein found in urine, albumin, is the same protein that is found in eggs.
### 7\. Persistent puffiness around eyes
Protein in the urine is an early sign that the kidneys’ filters have been damaged, allowing protein to leak into the urine. This puffiness around your eyes can be due to the fact that your kidneys are leaking a large amount of protein in the urine, rather than keeping it in the body.
### 8\. Swollen ankles and feet
Decreased kidney function can lead to sodium (salt) retention, causing swelling in your feet and ankles. Swelling in the lower extremities can also be a sign of heart disease, liver disease and chronic leg vein problems.
[Learn more about salt and kidney disease](https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/sodium-and-your-ckd-diet-how-to-spice-your-cooking?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=10-signs).
## One day, no one’s life will be lost to kidney disease.
Extraordinary progress is made possible by YOU. Your gift today will help revolutionize kidney health and transform lives for the next 75 years and beyond by helping to:
- Equip patients and families with knowledge, resources, and access to high-quality care.
- Advocate for policies that address disparities and prioritize kidney health for all.
- Fund research and technology to advance early detection, improve treatment, and expand transplant access.
This content is provided for informational use only and is not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for the medical advice of a healthcare professional.
© 2026 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. |
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| Unparsed URL | org,kidney!www,/news-stories/10-signs-you-may-have-kidney-disease s443 |