Listen to Your Body: 8 Signs Your Kidneys Need Help

Kidneys act as the filtration system of our body, flushing toxins out and filtering our blood before sending it back to our heart.

When our kidneys are not functioning as they should, dangerous toxins are left behind in our body. However, there are several warning signs that our body is experiencing kidney failure.

According to kidney.org: “More than 30 million American adults are living with kidney disease, and most don’t know it.”

Many will attribute symptoms to other issues, and we only experience symptoms in the late stages, so it is important to take care of our kidneys by drinking plenty of water and other kidney-promoting beverages and foods such as cranberry juice, bell peppers, cabbage, and apples.

Here is a list of warning signs that our kidneys are not functioning properly; it’s something we all need to read.

1. Swelling

Damaged kidneys often cause the body to swell, especially our ankles and feet. This is because reduced kidney function can lead to sodium retention. You may also experience puffiness around the eyes; a sign that your body is leaking a large amount of protein in the urine.

2. Fatigue

Healthy kidneys produce the hormone EPO (erythropoietin), which forms red blood cells. These cells are necessary to oxygenate the body and give us energy. When our kidneys are not functioning properly, we accumulate toxins and impurities in the blood, making us feel tired and weak.

3. Frequent Urination

If you find yourself urinating frequently, it could be a sign of a kidney disorder. When the kidneys’ filters are damaged, this can increase the urge to urinate.

4. Blood in Your Urine

Healthy kidneys ensure that blood cells stay in the body as they filter waste from the blood to make urine, but if your kidneys are damaged, these blood cells can “leak” into the urine. Besides signaling kidney issues, blood in the urine can be indicative of tumors, kidney stones, or an infection.

5. Dry, Itchy Skin

Since the kidneys maintain the balance of fluid and minerals in your body, dry and itchy skin could indicate that your kidneys are not functioning properly.

6. Foamy Urine

Excessive bubbles in the urine indicate protein in the urine. If you find yourself flushing multiple times, it might be time to consult a doctor.

7. Poor Appetite

Loss of appetite can be due to various things but could also be a sign of a kidney disorder.

8. Muscle Cramps

Electrolyte imbalances can result from impaired kidney function. Low calcium levels, for example, can mean muscle cramps, especially in the legs.

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