Foamy or Bubbly Urine
Occasional bubbles in urine may be harmless, but persistent foamy urine is a cause for concern. It usually indicates protein leakage into the urine—a classic marker of kidney damage.
Protein should remain in the blood to support muscle, repair tissue, and maintain body functions. Losing it through urine is a sign your kidneys are struggling.
Frequent or Reduced Urination
Kidney disease can cause two opposite problems: urinating too frequently, especially at night, or urinating much less than normal.
Both conditions suggest that the kidneys are not regulating fluids properly. Frequent urination can also be linked to infections, while reduced output signals advanced kidney malfunction.
Pain in the Lower Back or Side
Kidney pain usually appears as a sharp or dull ache on one side of the back, just beneath the rib cage.This discomfort may be due to kidney stones, infection, or even advanced kidney disease. Unlike regular back pain, kidney pain does not improve with posture changes and should be taken seriously.
Constant Itching
When kidneys cannot filter waste effectively, toxins accumulate in the blood. These toxins can irritate the skin, causing relentless itching.
The itching often happens beneath the skin and does not go away with scratching or lotions. It can become so intense that it disrupts sleep and daily activities.