To check kidney health, see your GP for a "Kidney Health Check" involving a blood test (for creatinine/eGFR, electrolytes, waste products like urea) and a urine test (for albumin, blood) to measure filtration and damage, plus a blood pressure check, as high BP harms kidneys. Doctors may also use imaging (ultrasound, CT, MRI) or, rarely, a biopsy for structural issues, but the simple blood/urine tests are key for early detection.
You can check kidney function at home using at-home test kits for urine (detecting protein/albumin) or finger-prick blood tests (checking creatinine/eGFR), often with smartphone apps for analysis, or by monitoring symptoms like increased nighttime urination (nocturia), swelling, or changes in urine (blood, foam) and discussing results with a doctor, as home tests screen but don't replace professional diagnosis.
Two easy tests help determine if you have kidney disease or not; Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR): Blood test that estimates how well the kidneys function. Urine albumin-creatinine ratio (uACR): Urine test that measures albumin (a protein) and creatinine, a waste product.
Early signs of kidney disease often involve subtle changes like foamy urine, increased nighttime urination, swelling (puffy eyes, ankles), persistent fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, itching, and shortness of breath, though many symptoms only appear as kidney function declines. High blood pressure can also be both a cause and an early indicator, and some damage may only be detected through lab tests, even with no noticeable symptoms in the earliest stages (Stage 1).
Urine tests.
Checking a sample of your urine can reveal signs of chronic kidney disease. Urine tests also could provide clues about what's causing your kidney disease. Having protein, called albumin, and blood present in the urine could be a sign of kidney disease.
Three key early warning signs of kidney problems are changes in urination (more or less frequent, especially at night), foamy or bloody urine, and persistent swelling, particularly around the eyes, feet, or ankles, indicating fluid retention. Other common signs include persistent fatigue, nausea, itching, and loss of appetite, as toxins build up when kidneys aren't filtering effectively.
Clinistix self-guided test strips detect albumin and creatinine levels in your urine, allowing you to assess your albumin-to-creatinine ratio, a critical indicator of kidney health.
Water is the best option, followed by kidney-friendly drinks like lemon water, cranberry juice, herbal teas, and coconut water. Avoid alcohol, sugary beverages, and excessive caffeine.
Itching often happens on both sides of the body at the same time (for example, both arms or both legs). Itching is most common and severe in people with kidney failure,but those in the earlier stages of CKD may also notice milder itching.
Surprising Things That Can Hurt Your Kidneys
Consistently clear, colorless urine may indicate a person is over-hydrating or a potential dysfunction in the kidneys. Healthy urine is pale-to-light yellow color and may appear almost clear at points.
Caring for Your Kidney
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), diuretics, and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors have all been linked to kidney problems. Certain medications given in hospital settings, such as iodinated radiocontrast, vancomycin, and aminoglycoside antibiotics, can also hurt the kidneys.
If you suspect your kidneys may be at risk of poor health, then take a kidney test kit in the comfort of your own home. Ideal for pre-screening yourself and alleviating worries, our urine tests for kidney function are an excellent first step before visiting your GP.
Canned foods, some frozen foods, and most processed meats contain large amounts of salt. Snack foods such as chips and crackers are also high in salt. Table salt, some seasonings, ketchup, mustard, and certain sauces such as barbecue, soy, and teriyaki sauces are high in sodium.
People with kidney disease may notice that their nails are yellow or discolored. If the kidneys are not functioning properly, they can't effectively filter out waste products, including nitrogen waste, which can lead to changes in the color and texture of the nails, making them appear pale or yellowish.
To strengthen your kidneys, focus on a healthy lifestyle: stay hydrated with water, eat a balanced diet low in salt and processed foods, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol, while also managing blood pressure and blood sugar to prevent damage.
Over-the-counter NSAIDS
They are not safe to use when you have kidney disease. Ibuprofen, such as Advil™ and Motrin™. Naproxen, such as Aleve™ and Naprosyn™. Aspirin for pain relief.
Most studies show that coffee has protective effects on the kidneys. Drinking coffee is associated with: A lower risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD) Better kidney function (less protein loss in your urine)
Kidney pain feels like a deep, dull ache in your back or side, under the ribs, but can also be sharp and severe, especially with kidney stones, often spreading to the groin and accompanied by nausea, fever, or urinary changes. Unlike typical back pain, it's often constant, deep within the body, and doesn't improve with rest or shifting positions, signaling an urgent issue like infection or stones.
Some studies have suggested that cranberry juice may lower levels of a protein called cystatin C, which is a marker of kidney function. Other studies have shown that cranberry supplements improved kidney function in people with early-stage kidney disease.
Generally, earlier stages are known as 1 to 3. And as kidney disease progresses, you may notice the following symptoms. Nausea and vomiting, muscle cramps, loss of appetite, swelling via feet and ankles, dry, itchy skin, shortness of breath, trouble sleeping, urinating either too much or too little.
A urinalysis can show if the kidneys are not functioning properly. Anyone can request a urine test to check for kidney function, and asking your doctor for one is important if you are at risk for kidney conditions.
Regular physical activity is key to potentially slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). By improving cardiovascular health, controlling blood pressure, and managing blood sugar levels, exercise reduces primary risk factors for CKD progression.