The kidneys play a vital role in maintaining overall health by filtering waste, balancing electrolytes, and regulating blood pressure. However, kidney disease often progresses silently, with symptoms appearing only in the advanced stages. Early detection is crucial to prevent kidney failure and other complications.

Dr. Venkatesh Kumar, a renowned urologist, sexologist, and robotic surgeon in Noida and Noida Extension, urges individuals to recognize early symptoms and seek medical advice if they notice any warning signs.

Who is at Risk for Kidney Disease?

Certain individuals are at higher risk of developing kidney disease. If you fall into any of these categories, you should get your kidneys checked regularly:

✔ People with diabetes or high blood pressure – The leading causes of kidney disease
✔ Those with a family history of kidney disease or kidney failure
✔ Individuals over the age of 60 – Kidney function naturally declines with age
✔ Frequent use of painkillers (NSAIDs) or nephrotoxic medications
✔ People with obesity or a history of heart disease

If you belong to any of these risk groups, schedule an annual kidney function test to monitor your health.

How is Kidney Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosing kidney disease involves two simple and painless tests:

🔹 Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR): A blood test that measures kidney function based on how well they filter waste.
🔹 Urine Albumin-Creatinine Ratio (uACR): A urine test that checks for protein leakage, an early sign of kidney damage.

If either test shows abnormalities, further evaluations such as imaging (ultrasound, CT scan) or biopsy may be required.

10 Symptoms of Kidney Disease You Should Never Ignore

1. Fatigue, Weakness, and Trouble Concentrating

As kidney function declines, toxic waste accumulates in the bloodstream, causing persistent tiredness and mental fog. Additionally, anemia—a lack of red blood cells—may result in fatigue and dizziness.

2. Difficulty Sleeping

The presence of excess toxins in the blood due to kidney dysfunction can make it hard to fall or stay asleep. People with kidney disease are also at higher risk of developing sleep apnea.

3. Dry, Itchy, or Flaky Skin

Kidneys help regulate minerals and nutrients in the blood. When kidney disease progresses, skin irritation, dryness, or persistent itching may occur due to mineral imbalances.

4. Frequent Urination – Especially at Night

If you experience frequent urination (nocturia), it may be due to kidney damage affecting the filtering process. While this symptom is common in urinary tract infections (UTIs) or prostate problems, it can also indicate chronic kidney disease (CKD).

5. Blood in the Urine (Hematuria)

Healthy kidneys prevent blood cells from leaking into urine. If you notice pink, red, or brown-colored urine, it could be due to kidney disease, infections, kidney stones, or even cancer.

6. Foamy or Bubbly Urine

Persistent foaming in urine is a sign of protein leakage, which suggests that the kidneys are not filtering properly. This foam resembles egg whites, as the protein in urine (albumin) is the same protein found in eggs.

7. Puffiness Around the Eyes

Persistent swelling around the eyes may indicate protein loss through urine. This means the kidneys are not retaining essential proteins, which may cause fluid accumulation in different parts of the body.

8. Swelling in the Feet and Ankles

Impaired kidney function can cause fluid retention, leading to swollen legs, ankles, and feet. This symptom can also be linked to heart disease, liver disease, or chronic venous insufficiency.

9. Loss of Appetite and Nausea

A buildup of toxins in the blood can lead to a reduced appetite, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Many patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) report feeling full even without eating much.

10. Muscle Cramps and Electrolyte Imbalances

Kidney disease can lead to imbalances in calcium, potassium, and phosphorus levels, causing frequent muscle cramps, spasms, and body aches.

When Should You See a Kidney Specialist?

If you experience one or more of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a kidney specialist (nephrologist or urologist) for a thorough evaluation. Early diagnosis can help prevent kidney failure and improve long-term kidney health.

Preventing Kidney Disease – Expert Tips from Dr. Venkatesh Kumar

Taking care of your kidneys is essential for overall health. Here are some practical tips to keep your kidneys healthy:

Stay Hydrated – Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily to help flush out toxins.
Monitor Blood Pressure & Sugar Levels – Uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension are leading causes of kidney disease.
Eat a Kidney-Friendly Diet – Reduce salt, processed foods, and high-sodium diets to avoid kidney strain.
Limit Painkiller Use – Overuse of NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Diclofenac, Naproxen) can damage the kidneys.
Exercise Regularly – Engage in moderate physical activity to maintain a healthy weight and improve circulation.
Avoid Smoking & Alcohol – Smoking and excessive drinking increase the risk of kidney damage and high blood pressure.

Advanced Kidney Treatments Available in Noida

If diagnosed early, kidney disease can be managed with medications, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications. In severe cases, treatments may include:

✔ Dialysis – Removes toxins and excess fluids from the body.
✔ Kidney Transplant – Involves replacing a damaged kidney with a healthy donor kidney.
✔ Minimally Invasive Procedures – Robotic surgery or laser treatments for kidney-related issues.

Dr. Venkatesh Kumar is one of the most trusted urologists and kidney specialists in Noida and Noida Extension, offering advanced, patient-centered treatment for kidney diseases.