In the early stages of kidney damage, individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms. Kidney disease can progress silently, and symptoms may only become apparent as the condition progresses.

Chronic kidney disease, also called chronic kidney failure, involves a gradual loss of kidney function. Your kidneys filter wastes and excess fluids from your blood, which are then removed in your urine. Advanced chronic kidney disease can cause dangerous levels of fluid, electrolytes and wastes to build up in your body.

In the early stages of chronic kidney disease, you might have few signs or symptoms. You might not realize that you have kidney disease until the condition is advanced.

Treatment for chronic kidney disease focuses on slowing the progression of kidney damage, usually by controlling the cause. But, even controlling the cause might not keep kidney damage from progressing. Chronic kidney disease can progress to end-stage kidney failure, which is fatal without artificial filtering (dialysis) or a kidney transplant.

However, one of the first main symptoms that may indicate kidney damage is often:

1. **Proteinuria:** – Presence of excess protein in the urine. Healthy kidneys filter waste products, including excess protein, from the blood. When the kidneys become damaged, they may allow protein to leak into the urine.

It is important to understand that proteinuria can be detected through a urine test and is not usually something you can see visually. Regular checkups with a health care professional and regular urine tests can help identify early signs of kidney damage.

As kidney disease progresses, other symptoms may emerge, including:

2. **Changes in urination:** – Increased or decreased frequency of urination. – Change in color of urine or appearing foamy.

3. **Swelling (Oedema):** – Swelling, especially around the feet, ankles or eyes. This may result from fluid retention due to poor kidney function.

4. **Fatigue:** – Generalized tiredness and weakness.

5. **High Blood Pressure:** – High blood pressure (hypertension) is a common complication of kidney disease and can develop or worsen.

6. **Back Pain:** – Pain in the lower back, especially around the kidney area.

It is important to note that these symptoms may also be associated with various other health conditions, and their presence does not necessarily indicate kidney damage. Regular health checkups including blood pressure measurement and urine tests are important for early detection of kidney-related problems.

If you have special concerns about your kidney health or notice any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult a health care professional for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate guidance. Early intervention can help slow the progression of kidney disease and improve outcomes.