10 Warning Signs Your Kidneys May Not Be Working Properly

Two commonly used measurements are eGFR and urine albumin. eGFR estimates kidney filtering ability using a blood creatinine measurement together with other relevant information. Urine albumin testing looks for abnormal protein leakage. Clinicians may repeat these tests because chronic kidney disease is defined by abnormalities that persist over time rather than a single unusual result in many circumstances. Additional testing may be necessary depending on the suspected cause.

People with diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease or a family history of kidney failure may have greater reason to discuss kidney screening with their healthcare professional. Previous acute kidney injury can also increase future risk. Age and other medical conditions may influence testing decisions as well. The appropriate schedule depends on individual circumstances, which is why generalized internet advice cannot replace a clinician who knows the person’s medical history.

Diabetes and high blood pressure are among the most common causes of chronic kidney disease in adults. Managing these conditions is therefore central to kidney protection. Taking prescribed medications correctly, attending regular medical appointments and completing recommended laboratory tests can help detect changes earlier. People should not stop blood-pressure or diabetes medications because of something they read online without speaking to the clinician who prescribed them.

Medication use also deserves attention. Certain medicines can affect kidney function, especially under particular circumstances or when used inappropriately. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, include commonly used medicines such as ibuprofen and naproxen. These drugs can contribute to kidney injury in susceptible people, particularly with high doses, prolonged use, dehydration or existing kidney disease. That does not mean everyone must avoid them completely, but people with kidney problems should discuss appropriate pain relief with a healthcare professional.

Hydration advice should also avoid oversimplification. Drinking enough fluid is important for general  health, but forcing large quantities of water does not “flush” chronic kidney disease away. People with advanced kidney failure or certain  heart conditions may even be instructed to limit fluid intake. The correct amount depends on health, climate, activity and medical circumstances. Generic instructions to drink excessive amounts of water can therefore be inappropriate.

Dietary advice needs similar individualization. Reducing excessive sodium intake can be useful for blood-pressure and fluid management, but people with kidney disease may have different nutritional needs depending on disease stage and laboratory results. Potassium, phosphorus and protein recommendations are not identical for everyone. Someone with diagnosed CKD should ideally receive dietary guidance from their healthcare team or a dietitian familiar with kidney disease rather than adopting restrictive diets from social media.