Cramping muscles
The kidneys help maintain the balance of water and electrolytes in the body. If you have kidney disease, your kidneys may not be able to regulate the electrolytes in your body effectively enough and this can cause electrolyte imbalance. Electrolytes are important for healthy muscle function. When the body does not retain enough water and electrolytes to maintain normal muscle function, you may experience painful muscle cramps [7].
Swollen feet and ankles
Kidney disease results in a progressive reduction in kidney function. The kidneys regulate water and salt retention in the body. Severely damaged kidneys can cause the body to retain excess sodium [8]. Fluid buildup due to sodium retention, particularly around the ankles, is quite common.
You may also develop swollen feet and ankles due to other health conditions besides kidney disease. Heart disease, venous disorders, and liver problems may also cause fluids to pool in the legs and engorge them.
Puffy face
Severe kidney disease may cause puffiness around the eyes [9]. This is because the kidney filters are damaged and the body is losing significant amounts of protein through the urine.