Kidneys can lose much of their function before you feel unwell. Watch for these signs, especially if you have diabetes, high BP, or a family history of kidney disease:
- Swelling of the feet, ankles or around the eyes
- Frothy or foamy urine – a sign of protein leakage
- Change in urine – passing more at night, less overall, or blood in urine
- Persistent tiredness and weakness (often due to anaemia)
- Loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting
- Itchy, dry skin
- Breathlessness due to fluid build-up
- High BP that is difficult to control
A simple blood test (creatinine) and urine test can detect kidney disease early. Don't wait for symptoms — get tested once a year if you are at risk.
