According to the American Kidney Fund, kidney disease is the 9th leading cause of death in the United States. Kidney disease can be caused by a number of conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure. Your kidneys are constantly working to help eliminate toxins and waste from your body. If and when they experience problems, it can be extremely detrimental to your health.

Here are six signs of toxic kidneys:

1. Odd Urine Odor

Urine odor depends on a number of factors, including a person’s diet, level of hydration and physical activity level. But when a malfunction of the kidney is present, urine gives off either a fishy or a sweet smell.

2. Changes In Urine Color

Urine is a pale, yellow color in a healthy person. The more hydrated you are, the lighter your urine will be. In people who have a kidney condition, urine may become brown, black, orange, pink or even red, due to blood in the urine. This is a serious condition and should be checked out by a doctor immediately.

3. Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain can be a sign of many health issues, including kidney problems. Kidney pain specifically tends to be located around the edges of the abdomen as well as the back. See a health care professional if you experience abdominal pain.

4. Urine Frequency

The amount of water you consume directly affects how often you urinate. But kidney problems can produce both an excess or a shortage of urine. A condition known as oliguria can cause you to produce less urine, while a condition called polyuria can cause you to produce excess urine. Sudden changes in urine frequency may be cause for concern.

5. Swelling, Nausea And Shortness Of Breath

When the kidneys are unable to expel the usual amounts of urine, swelling and water retention can occur. Shortness of breath and nausea may occur when the respiratory system is under more of a burden, which may also be a sign of toxic kidneys.

6. Visible Changes In Urine

Urine color depends largely on hydration levels, but other visible changes can be seen when the kidneys are damaged. If you notice pus or froth in your urine, visit a health care professional.

Power of Positivity
American Kidney Fund
Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic