People with more advanced kidney disease may lose interest in food.
Possible reasons include:
* nausea
* altered taste
* general illness
* buildup of metabolic waste
Persistent appetite loss deserves medical evaluation.
## 17. Nausea or Vomiting
Severely reduced kidney function can lead to nausea and vomiting.
These symptoms are common in many other illnesses, so they are most concerning when combined with other signs such as swelling, major changes in urination, or severe weakness.
## 18. Unexplained Weight Loss
Weight loss without trying can occur when appetite decreases or chronic illness affects nutrition.
Because unexplained weight loss has many potential causes, it should be medically assessed if it continues.
## 19. Shortness of Breath
Breathlessness can sometimes occur with kidney disease because of:
* anemia
* excess fluid
* associated heart problems
New or worsening shortness of breath should never be assumed to be kidney-related without proper evaluation.
## 20. Difficulty Sleeping
Sleep problems are common in people with chronic kidney disease.
Possible contributors include:
* itching
* restless legs
* cramps
* breathing problems
* discomfort
But insomnia itself is extremely common and nonspecific.
## 21. Feeling Cold More Often
Anemia associated with chronic kidney disease can sometimes make people feel unusually cold, even when others are comfortable.
Thyroid problems, low body weight, poor circulation, and other conditions can cause the same symptom.
## 22. High Blood Pressure That Becomes Harder to Control
The relationship between the kidneys and blood pressure works in both directions.
High blood pressure can damage the kidneys, while kidney disease can make blood pressure more difficult to manage.
A noticeable change in previously stable blood pressure may deserve further investigation.
## 23. Chest Pain or Pressure
Chest discomfort can occur in advanced kidney disease, but this is not a symptom to monitor casually.
Chest pain may be caused by serious heart, lung, or circulatory conditions.
Seek urgent medical care if chest pain is:
* sudden
* severe
* worsening
* accompanied by shortness of breath
* associated with fainting or heavy sweating
## The Most Important Sign May Be No Sign at All
