5 Unusual Morning Symptoms That Could Signal Kidney Damage

Signs Of Kidney Damage: Kidneys are one of the most important organs of the body that are responsible for regulating pH levels, salt, potassium and more. Kidney function can be affected due to various diseases, lifestyle habits and genetic factors. When kidneys are under stress or starting to malfunction, they send out subtle warning signs, especially in the morning, that are often overlooked. These signs are brushed off as a result of poor sleep or stress, but these morning symptoms are indications of underlying kidney damage. 

Kidney disease means that the organs are damaged and cannot filter the blood the way they should. Kidneys are at greater risk if people have lifestyle conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. The unusual morning symptoms that could signal kidney damage may not be alarming at first. However, recognising them early can make a huge difference in protecting long-term health. Here are the five morning signs that refer to kidney damage.

Morning Symptoms Of Kidney Damage

Facial Puffiness

Facial swelling or puffiness on waking up is not normal, rather, it is a sign of kidney disease. If this symptom is accompanied by swollen ankles or feet, it is important to visit the doctor. These signs indicate fluid retention due to the kidneys not properly filtering waste products from the blood. The condition is mostly associated with excessive protein leaks in the urine, which can cause swelling in various parts of the body, including the face. 

Excessively Dry Skin And Itchiness

Damaged kidneys can build up toxins and waste, which can lead to the shrinking of sweat glands. This can slowly cause dryness in the skin, resulting in excessive itchiness. The body makes chemicals that cause allergies and symptoms of itching, which do not go away even after applying moisturiser. This condition is called uremic pruritus and is a big warning symptom of potential kidney damage.

Foamy Or Bubbly Urine

If the first urine that is released on waking up in the morning has little bubbles, it can be a sign of a kidney ailment. This condition indicates the presence of excess protein in the urine, which is also known as proteinuria. This indicates that the kidneys are not working properly to filter out the waste.

Symptoms Of Kidney Damage (Image Credits: Canva)

Brain Fog

When the kidneys are malfunctioning, the toxins build up in the blood, making you feel tired and struggle to concentrate. It can lead to chronic kidney disease, which causes anemia or a lack of red blood cells, leading to extreme fatigue and brain fog. It is important to consult a doctor if you’re experiencing brain fog along with other potential kidney disease symptoms.

Bad Morning Breath

Usually, bad breath is not a sign of kidney disease, but if it is happening persistently and if you can smell the breath like ammonia, make sure to consult a doctor. This is a potential symptom of kidney damage, as when they are not functioning properly can result in toxins building up in the blood and can be released through breath, leading to a bad odour, which is also known as uremic breath.

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(Disclaimer: This content, including suggestions and advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information before making any drastic changes in your lifestyle.)