5 Common Symptoms of CKD – When to Worry and When to See a Doctor

5 Common Symptoms of CKD – When to Worry and When to See a Doctor

1. No symptoms: The most common symptom of CKD is none. In its early stages (CKD1-3B) it is a ‘silent disease’ that can only be spotted by blood tests.

2. Fatigue and weakness: Chronic kidney disease can cause a buildup of waste products in the blood, leading to persistent tiredness. Reduced red blood cell production (anaemia) also contributes to low energy levels.

3. Swelling in ankles, feet, or hands: Damaged kidneys may be unable to remove excess fluid from the body. This fluid retention leads to noticeable swelling, especially in the lower extremities.

4. Changes in urination: People with CKD may urinate more or less often than usual, particularly at night. Urine may also appear foamy, dark, or contain blood due to protein or blood leakage.

5. Other non-specific symptoms: Loss of appetite and nausea (with an unpleasant metallic taste in the mouth). itching, and difficulty concentrating or mental fog.

Note. Many of these symptoms are non-specific and seen in other diseases, e.g. heart, lung or liver failure.

When to worry

Contact your doctor if you notice new or worsening symptoms such as:

• Shortness of breath
• Swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, hands, or around the eyes
• Changes in urination (foamy urine, blood in urine, very little or too much urine)
• High blood pressure that’s difficult to control (e.g. > 160/100 on 3 BP drugs)
• Blood creatinine level of > 200 mcmol/L, or blood GFR < 30 ml/min (Stage 4 CKD).

Note. Many of these symptoms are non-specific and seen in other diseases, e.g. heart, lung or liver failure.

When to see a doctor right away

Seek urgent medical care if you have:

• Severe shortness of breath
• Chest pain or pressure
• Confusion or extreme drowsiness
• Very little or no urine output
• Irregular heartbeat or severe muscle weakness (possible high blood potassium level).