Last Updated:June 09, 2025, 10:07 IST
Kidneys perform essential tasks like filtering toxins and balancing fluids, but early signs of trouble, especially in women, are often subtle and overlooked.
Persistent fatigue could signal kidney issues.
Kidney issues rarely top our list of everyday health concerns, but perhaps it’s time they did. These two small, bean-shaped organs work tirelessly behind the scenes – flushing out toxins, balancing body fluids, regulating blood pressure and even supporting bone health. Despite their round-the-clock efforts, early warning signs of kidney trouble are often subtle, especially in women.
That’s why it’s crucial to stay aware of even minor, persistent changes in your body. What seems like fatigue or stress could be your kidneys trying to send a message.
Unexplained Puffiness in the Eyes or Feet
Noticing swelling around your eyes when you wake up, or in your ankles after a day on your feet? Don’t dismiss it as just poor sleep or salty food. This could be a sign your kidneys aren’t effectively clearing out extra fluids. Fluid retention commonly shows up in soft areas like the lower legs and under the eyes. If the swelling sticks around or gets worse, it’s a good idea to get it checked.
Ongoing Exhaustion That Doesn’t Add Up
Feeling constantly drained, even after a solid night’s rest? It could go beyond everyday stress. Healthy kidneys produce erythropoietin – a hormone that helps your body make red blood cells. When kidney function dips, this hormone drops too, which can lead to fewer red blood cells, lower oxygen levels and persistent fatigue. If you’re always tired for no clear reason, your kidneys might be involved.
Unusual Changes in Urine Patterns
Your urine can be a clear indicator of how your kidneys are doing. Since kidneys play a direct role in urine production, noticeable changes shouldn’t be overlooked. Watch out for:
- Persistent foaming or bubbling,
- Needing to urinate more often, especially at night,
- Blood in the urine,
- Dark or cloudy appearance, or
- Pain or burning while peeing
If you experience any of these, it may be your kidneys signalling a problem.
Muscle Cramps That Happen Unexpectedly
Are you waking up with painful cramps in your calves or feet for no apparent reason? Your kidneys help regulate minerals like calcium and potassium, which are essential for healthy muscle contractions. When these levels are imbalanced due to kidney dysfunction, muscle cramps can strike – often suddenly and painfully, especially at night.
Persistent Dryness or Itching of the Skin
If your skin feels dry, flaky, or itchy no matter how much you moisturise, the cause might be internal. When kidneys aren’t removing waste efficiently, toxins build up in the body, and the skin often reacts. Chronic dryness or irritation without a clear external cause may be linked to kidney function and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Five Simple Habits to Support Kidney Health
Keep Yourself Hydrated: Drinking enough water daily helps your kidneys flush out waste more efficiently.
Manage Your Blood Sugar: High blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys over time, especially if left unchecked.
Choose a Nutritious Diet: A well-balanced, low-sodium diet supports kidney function and overall wellness.
Stay Active Regularly: Physical activity helps maintain healthy blood pressure and improves circulation, both good for your kidneys.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive drinking can strain your kidneys, so moderation is key.
- Location :
Delhi, India, India
- First Published:
#Women #Shouldnt #Overlook #Quiet #Signs #Kidney #Trouble
