Kidney diseases like Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), which used to mostly affect the elderly, are now becoming more common in younger people at alarming rates. The rise is caused by an increase in diabetes and hypertension cases, which are exacerbated by sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, and an increase in obesity.
This shift highlights the urgent need for increased awareness, early detection, and preventive measures to tackle the growing burden of kidney disease in India. Routine screening, lifestyle changes, and better health education—particularly among the youth—are critical to curbing the rise in kidney-related problems.
Are you likely to develop kidney disease? The most important symptoms to look out for are as follows:
Trouble sleeping: When kidneys don’t filter properly, toxins build up in the blood, making it harder to sleep. People with kidney disease are also more likely to experience sleep apnea.
Frequent urination: An increased desire to urinate, particularly at night, may be caused by damaged kidney filters. While this may also signal a urinary infection or, in men, an enlarged prostate, any noticeable change in frequency should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Low energy: When toxins accumulate in the blood, they can make you tired, weak, and have trouble focusing. Kidney disease can also lead to anaemia, which further contributes to tiredness.
Blood in urine: Healthy kidneys prevent blood cells from leaking into urine. When the filters are damaged, blood may appear, signalling possible kidney disease, stones, tumours, or infection. Any such sign should be checked by a doctor immediately.
Puffiness around eyes: Protein leaking into urine, instead of staying in the body, may cause swelling or puffiness around the eyes—a possible sign of kidney damage.
Swelling of the feet and ankles: When the kidneys aren’t working right, sodium retention can cause swelling. This symptom may also be linked to heart disease, liver disease, or chronic vein problems in the legs.
Muscle cramping: Kidney dysfunction can disrupt electrolyte balance—like low calcium or high phosphorus—triggering muscle cramps.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you notice any symptoms of kidney disease, see a doctor. Early detection is key to preventing progression to kidney failure. Those at higher risk may be advised to undergo regular urine and blood tests for timely monitoring.
