• Published on: Aug 05, 2021
  • 3 minute read
  • By: SecondMedic Expert

11 Signs You May Have Kidney Disease

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Think of your body like a big team, working together like musicians in a band. Each part has a special job, and your kidneys are like the quiet heroes doing an important task – cleaning up the mess and making sure everything runs smoothly. But what if there's a problem? It turns out there might be a sneaky issue called kidney disease.

In this blog, we're going to talk about 11 signs that your body might be telling you about possible kidney problems. Knowing these kidney disease symptoms can help you start taking better care of yourself, so let's figure out what your kidneys might be trying to say.

1.Peeing Changes:

Early signs that your kidneys might need help include changes in how you pee. Keep an eye out for peeing more or less often, pee that looks different, or if it's foamy. These small changes might be your body saying there's a problem.

2.Feeling Tired All the Time:

Do you often feel tired, even after a good night's sleep? It's like your body's batteries aren't charging up properly. Well, your kidneys might be having a tough time cleaning out the yucky stuff from your body, and this can make you feel tired a lot. If you're always feeling exhausted, it's a sign that your kidneys might need a little extra care.

3.Swelling and Puffiness:

Sometimes, when your kidneys aren't working their best, it can mess up the balance of fluids in your body. This might cause swelling, making your hands, face, or legs puff up. If you notice this happening, it's like your body waving a flag to let you know something might be up with your kidneys. Don't ignore it – pay attention.

4.Blood in Pee:

Seeing blood while peeing is a big sign that something might be wrong with your kidneys. It could mean there's an infection or even a more serious problem. If you see this happening, it's super important to go see a doctor right away. They can help figure out what's going on and how to fix it. Don't wait.

5.High Blood Pressure:

Your kidneys and blood pressure are like good friends who always stick together. If your kidneys aren't doing their job properly, it can make your blood pressure go up. But guess what? If your blood pressure is too high, it can also hurt your kidneys. It's like a two-way road where both sides need a bit of help. So, if you notice this happening, it's time to take care of both your kidneys and your blood pressure. They need your attention to stay healthy.

6.Back Pain:

Your kidneys are in your lower back. If your lower back hurts a lot and you don't know why, it might be a problem. Don't ignore it, especially if the pain is where your kidneys are.

7.Changes in Appetite:

Sometimes, if your kidneys are not feeling well, it can affect how hungry or interested you are in eating. You might not feel like eating, or you could even feel a bit sick to your stomach. If you notice you're not enjoying food or it's hard to digest, it's important to look into it a bit more.

8.Strange Taste in Your Mouth:

Sometimes, if your kidneys aren't doing well, your sense of taste might change. You might notice a weird metallic or ammonia-like taste in your mouth. If your mouth tastes strange like this, it could mean your kidneys are asking for help.

9.Dry, Itchy Skin:

Think of your kidneys as superheroes keeping everything in balance inside your body. But if they're not doing well, your skin might get dry and itchy. So, if your skin feels weird, it's a good idea to check how your kidneys are doing.

10.Trouble Paying Attention:

Sometimes, when your kidneys are not working well, it can make it hard for your brain to focus. You might feel like your mind is a bit cloudy, and you have a tough time concentrating. If you notice this happening often and forget things more than usual, it's a sign to think about your overall health.

11.Puffy Eyes:

Sometimes, when you wake up, your eyes might look a bit swollen and stay that way. Did you know that kidney problems could be the reason? The kidneys may keep too much salt in your body, causing puffiness, especially around your eyes. If your eyes stay puffy often, it could be more than just not getting enough sleep. Watch out for it.


Your body talks to you in its special way, and it's important to listen. If you notice any of these kidney disease symptoms, don't ignore them. Kidney problems can be taken care of, especially if you catch them early. Pay attention to what your body is saying, talk to a healthcare expert, and do things to keep your kidneys healthy. Your health is like a beautiful song, and your kidneys are like the hidden heroes that deserve a big cheer.

Read FAQs


A. The first stage of kidney failure is often called "kidney damage with normal or increased filtration rate." It means that your kidneys are not working as well as they should, but you might not have noticeable symptoms yet. Regular checkups and tests can help catch it early.

A. To naturally keep your kidneys healthy, drink plenty of water to flush out toxins. Eating fruits and veggies, like watermelon, cucumbers, and berries, is good for your kidneys. Avoid too much salt and processed foods. Also, try to maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and avoid smoking.

A. Yes, you can live a long life with kidney disease, especially if you take good care of your health. Follow your doctor's advice, take prescribed medications, and make lifestyle changes like eating healthy and staying active. Regular checkups will help catch any issues early, giving you a better chance at a long and healthy life.

Read Blog

Heart Related Health Issues: Early Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore

Heart related health issues remain one of the leading causes of illness and death worldwide. Despite advancements in medical care, many heart conditions are diagnosed late because early symptoms are subtle, misunderstood or ignored. Understanding early warning signs of heart related health issues is crucial, as timely action can prevent life-threatening events such as heart attacks and strokes.

Public health data consistently shows that most cardiovascular events are preceded by warning signals that appear weeks, months or even years earlier. Recognising these signs allows for early intervention and better long-term outcomes.

 

What Are Heart Related Health Issues?

Heart related health issues include conditions that affect:

  • the heart muscle
     

  • coronary arteries
     

  • heart valves
     

  • electrical system of the heart
     

Common conditions include coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias and hypertension-related heart damage.

 

Why Heart Problems Often Go Unnoticed

Heart disease is often called a “silent killer” because:

  • symptoms develop gradually
     

  • early signs are mild
     

  • discomfort is mistaken for fatigue or indigestion
     

  • people delay medical evaluation
     

Unfortunately, waiting for severe pain or emergencies increases risk.

 

Early Warning Signs of Heart Related Health Issues

Chest Discomfort

Chest pain or discomfort is the most recognised warning sign, but it does not always feel severe.

It may present as:

  • pressure
     

  • tightness
     

  • heaviness
     

  • burning sensation
     

Chest discomfort may come and go and worsen with exertion.

 

Breathlessness

Shortness of breath during routine activities or at rest may indicate:

  • reduced heart pumping capacity
     

  • fluid buildup in lungs
     

Breathlessness is often an early sign of heart failure or coronary disease.

 

Unusual Fatigue

Persistent, unexplained fatigue can signal reduced blood supply to the body.

People may notice:

  • exhaustion after minimal activity
     

  • reduced stamina
     

  • prolonged recovery after exertion
     

Fatigue is frequently overlooked as stress or ageing.

 

Palpitations or Irregular Heartbeat

Feeling the heart race, flutter or skip beats may indicate rhythm disturbances.

Symptoms include:

  • rapid heartbeat
     

  • pounding sensation
     

  • irregular pulse
     

Some arrhythmias increase stroke risk if untreated.

 

Dizziness or Lightheadedness

Reduced blood flow to the brain can cause:

  • dizziness
     

  • fainting spells
     

  • imbalance
     

These symptoms may signal heart rhythm or blood pressure issues.

 

Swelling in Legs or Ankles

Fluid retention in lower limbs suggests:

  • weakened heart function
     

  • poor circulation
     

Swelling often worsens by evening and improves overnight.

 

Pain in Other Areas

Heart-related pain may radiate to:

  • left arm
     

  • neck
     

  • jaw
     

  • back
     

  • upper abdomen
     

This atypical pain is common and frequently misdiagnosed.

 

Symptoms That Are More Common in Women

Women may experience:

  • nausea
     

  • jaw pain
     

  • back pain
     

  • extreme fatigue
     

  • shortness of breath without chest pain
     

These non-classic symptoms often delay diagnosis.

 

Risk Factors for Heart Related Health Issues

Major risk factors include:

  • high blood pressure
     

  • diabetes
     

  • high cholesterol
     

  • smoking
     

  • obesity
     

  • sedentary lifestyle
     

  • chronic stress
     

  • family history
     

Risk increases when multiple factors coexist.

 

Why Early Detection Is Critical

Early diagnosis:

  • prevents heart attacks
     

  • reduces heart muscle damage
     

  • lowers hospitalisation risk
     

  • improves quality of life
     

Most heart conditions are manageable when detected early.

 

How Heart Problems Are Diagnosed

Evaluation may involve:

  • blood pressure measurement
     

  • blood tests
     

  • electrocardiogram (ECG)
     

  • imaging studies
     

  • stress testing
     

Tests are chosen based on symptoms and risk profile.

 

Treatment and Management

Medical Management

Depending on the condition:

  • medications
     

  • lifestyle changes
     

  • monitoring
     

Early treatment slows disease progression.

 

Lifestyle Modification

Lifestyle plays a major role in heart health:

  • balanced diet
     

  • regular physical activity
     

  • stress management
     

  • adequate sleep
     

  • smoking cessation
     

Lifestyle changes significantly reduce risk.

 

Preventive Measures for Heart Health

  • regular health checkups
     

  • blood pressure and sugar monitoring
     

  • cholesterol screening
     

  • physical activity
     

  • heart-healthy diet
     

Prevention is the most effective strategy against heart disease.

 

When to Seek Immediate Medical Help

Seek urgent care if:

  • chest pain is severe or persistent
     

  • breathlessness occurs suddenly
     

  • fainting happens
     

  • pain radiates to arm or jaw
     

Prompt action saves lives.

 

Long-Term Impact of Ignoring Warning Signs

Ignoring early symptoms may lead to:

  • heart attack
     

  • stroke
     

  • heart failure
     

  • permanent heart damage
     

  • sudden cardiac events
     

Delayed care increases mortality risk.

 

Conclusion

Heart related health issues rarely appear suddenly without warning. The body often sends early signals such as chest discomfort, fatigue, breathlessness and palpitations long before emergencies occur. Recognising these early warning signs and seeking timely medical evaluation can prevent serious complications and save lives. Heart health requires awareness, proactive care and early action—because when it comes to the heart, ignoring symptoms is a risk no one should take.

 

References

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Cardiovascular Disease Report

  •  World Health Organization (WHO) – Cardiovascular Health Guidelines

  • National Heart Institute – Early Signs of Heart Disease

  • Lancet – Global Burden of Cardiovascular Disease Studies

  • Indian Journal of Cardiology – Heart Disease Detection and Preventio

  •  Statista – Heart Disease Trends and Risk Factors

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