Kidney problems may not cause symptoms at first. Signs often appear only after the kidneys are not working well. By then, the damage may be serious. Regular check-ups are important.
Watch for these symptoms:
- Swelling in the arms, legs, or belly (also called edema)
- Urinating more or less than usual, including at night
- Irregular heartbeat
- Feeling weak or tired
- Trouble walking
- Muscle cramps
- Headaches or seizures
- Nausea, poor appetite, or weight loss
- Loss of interest in activities, depression, or confusion
- Sudden sharp pain in the back or side (may be a kidney stone)
- Blood in the urine
- High blood pressure that is hard to control
- Falls or broken bones
Last Updated April 2026