Your kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste and balancing fluids in your body, but when they’re struggling, the warning signs might not be obvious. Here are some unusual symptoms that could signal your kidneys need a check-up:

1. Persistent Itchiness

If you’re experiencing relentless itching, it may not just be dry skin. When kidneys can’t filter waste properly, toxins can build up, causing an itchy feeling on your skin. Persistent itchiness, especially without any rash, could be a sign that your kidneys are under stress.

2. Metallic Taste in Your Mouth

A sudden, metallic taste or a persistent bad breath can indicate kidney issues. Waste buildup in the bloodstream can lead to a metallic taste or even bad breath that doesn’t go away after brushing. This is often one of the early signs of kidney dysfunction.

3. Swollen Ankles, Feet, or Hands

Kidneys help regulate sodium balance, so when they’re not working well, sodium levels may rise, causing water retention. This often leads to swelling in the ankles, feet, or even hands. If you notice unexplained puffiness, it might be worth investigating.

4. Foamy or Bubbly Urine

An unusual amount of foam or bubbles in your urine can indicate protein leakage, which may happen when the kidneys are damaged. The bubbles resemble those from vigorously beaten eggs, a sign that protein is being lost due to kidney malfunction.

5. Constant Fatigue and Brain Fog

Kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin, which signals the body to produce red blood cells. When kidneys are compromised, they may produce less of this hormone, leading to anemia, fatigue, weakness, and even concentration issues. If you’re feeling exhausted despite good sleep, it could be a sign of kidney distress.

6. Lower Back Pain

A dull, consistent pain in the lower back, or one side, can sometimes be related to kidney trouble, especially if it’s accompanied by urinary changes. This pain might also radiate to the front of your abdomen, and is different from typical muscle pain.

7. Frequent Nighttime Urination

If you find yourself waking up multiple times to urinate, it might be more than just drinking too much water before bed. Kidneys are supposed to filter at a steady rate, but when they’re damaged, nighttime urination can increase as your body tries to eliminate excess waste.