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Identifying the early warning signs of kidney disease

Kidneys don’t often get the spotlight, but they quietly perform a vital job every minute of every day. These two, fist-sized organs filter waste and excess fluid from your blood, help regulate blood pressure, balance electrolytes, and support bone and heart health.

When kidney function begins to decline, the symptoms can be subtle – so subtle, in fact, that many people don’t realise there’s a problem until it’s advanced. This can lead to serious consequences, including fluid retention, high blood pressure, fatigue, bone loss, and in some cases, kidney failure.

Early detection through regular health checks can identify issues before they progress – offering an opportunity for early support and intervention.

What is chronic kidney disease?

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a gradual loss of kidney function over time. Often progressing without clear symptoms in its early stages, it can remain undetected until damage is well underway. Remarkably, kidney function can decline by as much as 90% before any noticeable symptoms appear,

Left unmanaged, CKD can impact overall wellbeing and lead to complications affecting the heart, bones, and nervous system. In some cases, advanced kidney disease may result in kidney failure – leading to the need for dialysis or kidney transplant.

In Australia, CKD was responsible for over 22,000 deaths in 2022, making up 11% of all deaths that year. With projections indicating a potential 42% rise in the number of Australians living with kidney disease by 2030, the need for early recognition and prevention is clear.

Understanding the risks of kidney disease

Certain individuals are more likely to develop kidney disease. This includes people with diabetes (the leading cause of kidney disease in Australia), high blood pressure cardiovascular disease, or a family history of kidney problems. Other contributing factors to kidney disease include smoking, obesity, and older age. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities also experience significantly higher rates of CKD, often with earlier onset and faster progression.

What are the early warning signs of kidney disease?

Kidney disease can be difficult to detect in its early stages, but there are some signs and symptoms that may indicate reduced kidney function. These include:

  • Changes in urination (frequency, colour, or frothiness)
  • Swelling in the ankles, legs, feet, or hands
  • Tiredness or reduced energy levels
  • Persistent itching or dry skin
  • Difficulty concentrating or experiencing “brain fog”

While these symptoms can have many causes, they may prompt further investigation – especially when combined with known risk factors.

Testing for kidney disease

Kidney health can be checked using three simple, routine tests—a urine test, blood test and a blood pressure test.

  1. The urine test (ACR) looks for small amounts of protein, called albumin, in your urine, which can be an early sign of kidney damage.
  2. A blood test is undertaken to see how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood, measured by your estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR).
  3. Lastly, high blood pressure and kidney disease are closely related so a simple blood pressure test is also performed.

Download the Kidney Health Australia factsheet for more information.

Your doctor may also check your blood pressure, as high blood pressure can both contribute to and result from kidney disease. A kidney health check is quick, non-invasive, and often included in routine health checks, especially for those with risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney issues.

Supporting your kidney health

Looking after your kidneys starts with a few consistent habits. Staying well hydrated, eating a balanced diet low in salt and processed foods, and exercising regularly can all help reduce strain on the kidneys. For people living with high blood pressure or diabetes, managing these conditions is especially important.
Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol also supports kidney and overall health. And while lifestyle plays a big role, regular check-ups are just as crucial – giving you the opportunity to track changes early and make informed decisions about your health.

Early detection matters

It’s easy to put off health appointments, especially when life gets busy. But taking the time to schedule a health assessment can help to support early detection of kidney changes.

At Oracle Healthcare, kidney function pathology and urine testing for kidney disease are included in our comprehensive health assessments when clinically appropriate. Contact us to learn more about our comprehensive health checks.

Disclaimer
All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Oracle Healthcare can consult with you regarding your individual health needs.

References

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