Kidney disease is a silent threat that often goes unnoticed until it reaches advanced stages. For Black people, the risk is significantly higher due to genetic predisposition, high blood pressure and diabetes — two of the leading causes of kidney failure. According to the National Kidney Foundation, Black Americans are almost four times more likely to develop kidney failure than white Americans. Early detection is key to preventing severe complications, but many people overlook the warning signs.
If your kidneys are struggling, your body will send signals — some subtle, some more obvious. Recognizing these signs early can be the difference between maintaining your health and facing a life-threatening condition. Here are 10 signs of kidney disease Black people shouldn’t ignore.
Swelling in the feet, ankles and hands
When the kidneys can’t filter waste and excess fluids properly, swelling occurs — especially in the lower body. This happens because fluid builds up in tissues, causing puffiness in the feet, ankles and even the face. Many dismiss it as a side effect of diet or long hours on their feet, but persistent swelling can indicate declining kidney function.
Persistent fatigue and low energy
The kidneys help produce red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. When kidney function declines, anemia can develop, leading to chronic fatigue. If you’re feeling constantly drained, sluggish or weak — even after a good night’s sleep — it may be time to check your kidney health.
Changes in urination
Your urine can reveal a lot about your kidney function. If you notice any of the following changes, it could be a sign that your kidneys are in trouble:
- Increased frequency, especially at night
- Dark-colored, foamy or bloody urine
- Difficulty urinating or decreased output
- A strong ammonia-like smell
Since kidneys regulate fluid balance and remove toxins, any abnormalities in urination should not be ignored.
Persistent itching and dry skin
Healthy kidneys remove waste and excess minerals from the blood. When they don’t function properly, toxins build up, causing skin irritation, dryness and severe itching. Some people with kidney disease also experience changes in their skin color, with a grayish or yellowish hue developing over time.
High blood pressure that’s hard to control
High blood pressure and kidney disease create a dangerous cycle. Uncontrolled hypertension damages the small blood vessels in the kidneys, making it harder for them to filter toxins. In turn, kidney disease can worsen blood pressure, leading to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. If your blood pressure remains high despite medication and lifestyle changes, your kidneys might be struggling.
Shortness of breath
As kidney disease progresses, fluid can build up in the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing. Additionally, anemia caused by poor kidney function reduces oxygen in the blood, making it harder to catch your breath — even with mild physical activity. If you find yourself winded after basic tasks like climbing stairs or walking short distances, consider getting your kidney function tested.
Nausea and vomiting
When waste accumulates in the body, it can cause nausea, vomiting and a loss of appetite. Many people dismiss this as a stomach virus or food poisoning, but ongoing nausea with no clear cause may indicate kidney disease. In advanced cases, some individuals experience a metallic taste in their mouth due to toxin buildup.
Trouble concentrating or brain fog
Your brain needs oxygen-rich blood to function properly. When kidney disease leads to anemia and toxin buildup, it can result in mental confusion, memory issues and difficulty concentrating. Many describe this as “brain fog” — a feeling of being mentally slow or forgetful. If you’re struggling to focus or retain information, your kidneys may not be filtering toxins effectively.
Muscle cramps and weakness
The kidneys help regulate important minerals like calcium, potassium and phosphorus. When they fail, imbalances in these electrolytes can cause painful muscle cramps, twitching and even weakness. Some people wake up in the middle of the night with severe leg cramps, unaware that their kidneys may be the culprit.
Puffy eyes or facial swelling
Excess protein in the urine — an early sign of kidney disease — can cause noticeable puffiness around the eyes. This happens because the kidneys are leaking protein instead of keeping it in the body where it’s needed. If your eyes appear swollen, especially in the morning, don’t dismiss it as allergies or a bad night’s sleep.
The importance of early detection
Kidney disease is often referred to as a “silent killer” because it can progress without obvious symptoms. By the time many people realize something is wrong, significant damage has already occurred. This is why regular checkups, especially for those with a family history of kidney disease, high blood pressure or diabetes, are essential.
What you can do
If you recognize any of these signs, don’t wait to seek medical attention. Here are steps you can take to protect your kidney health:
- Get tested regularly: Simple blood and urine tests can detect early kidney issues
- Manage blood pressure and diabetes: Keeping these conditions under control reduces the risk of kidney damage
- Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps your kidneys flush out toxins efficiently
- Limit salt and processed foods: Excess sodium puts strain on the kidneys
- Exercise regularly: Staying active helps maintain healthy blood flow and reduces the risk of kidney disease
Proactive care saves lives
For Black people, kidney disease is a serious health concern that requires awareness and proactive care. The earlier it’s detected, the better the chances of preventing irreversible damage. Pay attention to the signs, listen to your body and take action if something doesn’t feel right.
Ignoring these warning signals can have life-threatening consequences — but recognizing them early can help protect your kidneys and overall health for years to come.
This story was created using AI technology.
