symptoms
How does someone develop kidney disease without noticing early symptoms?
Kidney disease often grows slowly, with no symptoms at first. Inside each kidney are tiny structures that filter your blood.
Kidney disease often develops over many years with no warning signs. Most people feel fine until the damage is already advanced.
Inside each kidney are about a million tiny structures called nephrons. These filter your blood. Kidney disease damages these nephrons slowly, over several years. The damage is gradual. Symptoms often don't appear until the disease is very advanced.
Diabetes and high blood pressure are the most common causes of kidney disease. Having a close family member with kidney disease also raises your risk.
Blood and urine tests are the only way to detect kidney disease early. Talk to your care team about whether you should be tested. This matters especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history.
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This page is educational, not medical advice. Talk with your care team about decisions that apply to you. If something feels urgent, contact your care team — for emergencies call your local emergency number.
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