Recognising the warning signs early can help protect kidney health
iUKD: An Advanced Institute for Kidney & Urological Care
Kidney disease often develops silently. In its early stages, symptoms may be mild or difficult to notice, which is why many people remain unaware of the condition until it becomes more serious. However, certain changes in the legs and feet can sometimes indicate that the kidneys are not functioning properly and should not be ignored.
The kidneys perform several vital functions. They remove waste products and excess fluid from the body through urine, help maintain fluid and mineral balance, contribute to blood-pressure regulation and play an important role in maintaining bone health. When kidney function declines, excess fluid and waste products may accumulate in the body.
What changes in the legs may occur?
Swelling of the feet, ankles or toes:
When the kidneys cannot remove excess sodium and fluid effectively, fluid may accumulate in the body. This can cause swelling, particularly around the ankles and lower legs.
Leg cramps and muscle spasms:
Reduced kidney function can affect the balance of electrolytes and minerals in the body. This may contribute to muscle cramps, tightness or spasms in the legs.
Weakness and a heavy feeling in the legs:
Reduced kidney function can be associated with the accumulation of waste products, anaemia and other metabolic changes. These may contribute to fatigue, weakness or a feeling of heaviness in the legs.
Tingling, numbness or burning sensations:
Long-term kidney disease can sometimes affect the nerves. As a result, a person may experience tingling, reduced sensation or burning sensations in the feet and legs.
Muscle weakness and difficulty walking or climbing stairs:
Persistent fatigue and muscle weakness may make it difficult to stand for long periods, walk comfortably or climb stairs.
Dry, itchy skin:
People with advanced kidney disease may develop dry skin and persistent itching. Skin irritation or other changes may also occur.
Changes in skin colour:
In advanced kidney disease, the accumulation of certain waste products may contribute to changes in the appearance or colour of the skin.
These symptoms do not necessarily mean kidney failure
Swelling, cramps, itching, tingling and weakness in the legs can occur for many different reasons. Therefore, experiencing one of these symptoms does not automatically mean that a person has kidney failure.
However, if such symptoms are persistent, recurrent or accompanied by other changes—such as altered urination, swelling around the face or eyes, unusual fatigue or high blood pressure—it is important to consult a qualified medical professional.
Depending on the symptoms, a doctor may recommend blood tests, urine tests, kidney-function tests, ultrasound or other investigations to assess kidney health.
iUKD — Advanced Kidney & Urological Care
Kidney Hospital iUKD (Institute of Urology and Kidney Diseases) provides specialised medical services for kidney and urological conditions in Assam and the Northeast.
The hospital provides treatment for a wide range of conditions, including kidney stones, prostate disorders, kidney failure, urinary problems in men and women, and urological cancers involving the kidney, urinary bladder, genital organs, testicles and prostate, as well as various male and female sexual-health conditions.
Experienced teams of urologists and nephrologists are available throughout the week to provide specialised care.
Patients can also consult a specialist diabetologist every Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at iUKD.
The hospital also offers urological robotic surgery, using advanced technology for selected surgical procedures.
Under the supervision of Dr. Arup Kumar Nath, Managing Director and Chief Urology Specialist of iUKD, popularly known as “The Laser Man of India,” teams of experienced urologists and nephrologists provide specialised care to patients.
Do not ignore changes in your legs
If swelling, cramps, itching, tingling, weakness or other unusual changes in your feet and legs persist, seek medical advice—particularly if you also notice changes in urination, facial swelling, unusual fatigue or high blood pressure.
Early evaluation and appropriate treatment can help identify kidney problems and may help prevent further deterioration of kidney function.
Contact:
📞 8011501833 | 9864104444
Hospital Address:
Kidney Hospital iUKD, Institute of Urology and Kidney Diseases,
Nazirakhat, Sonapur, Guwahati, Assam – 782402