The kidneys function as the body’s filters, silently supporting overall health. Yet many people unknowingly damage them over time. By recognizing the early signs of kidney disease and adopting simple dietary and massage remedies, you can help prevent kidney failure and reduce your chances of needing dialysis.
Some may consider the kidneys to be “silent” because the early symptoms of kidney disease are typically subtle or go unnoticed. By the time symptoms appear, the condition has often progressed to an advanced stage. In 2020, the United States had the second-highest dialysis rate in the world, following Taiwan, according to the United States Renal Data System.
Early Signs of Kidney Disease
On the “She Health” program, Lin Yuan-Chuan, director of the Lin Yuan-Chuan Chinese Medicine Clinic in Taiwan, shared key warning signs of kidney disease. These include the following:- Foamy urine: Persistent or excessive foam in the urine may signal kidney problems.
- Edema (swelling): Generalized swelling, particularly around the eyelids, face, and limbs, can indicate kidney damage.
- High blood pressure: Studies show that most people with chronic kidney disease also have hypertension (high blood pressure). Hypertension can contribute to chronic kidney disease, and chronic kidney disease can worsen hypertension, creating a harmful cycle.
- Anemia: Research suggests that anemia becomes more common in advanced chronic kidney disease. A sudden onset of anemia in someone with no prior history may indicate declining kidney functions and reduced erythropoietin, the hormone responsible for stimulating red blood cell production.
- Fatigue: Frequent tiredness or exhaustion, even without significant physical exertion, may signal declining kidney function.
