One of the clearest early signs includes:
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Foamy or bubbly urine (indicating protein leakage)
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Frequent nighttime urination
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Very pale or very dark urine
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Difficulty or pain while urinating
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Reduced urine output
Any persistent urine changes should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
4. Back Pain Below the Ribs
Kidney pain typically appears:
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on one side of the lower back
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below the rib cage
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and can radiate toward the groin
This is different from muscle pain and can signal infection, stones, or early-stage kidney damage.
5. Persistent Itching (Without Rash)
When waste builds up in the blood due to decreased kidney function, it can cause uremic itching, a deep, persistent itch with no visible rash.
6. Shortness of Breath
Excess fluid can accumulate in the lungs, or low red blood cell levels can decrease oxygen delivery, causing difficulty breathing.
7. Loss of Appetite or Metallic Taste
Toxin buildup may cause:
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nausea
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vomiting
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metallic or ammonia-like taste in the mouth
These are classic signs of declining kidney function.
