Symptoms of Kidney Failure

The symptoms for acute and chronic kidney failure may be different and may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Each individual may experience symptoms differently. It is important to consult your physician for a diagnosis.

Acute Kidney Failure Symptoms

Symptoms of acute kidney failure often depend on the underlying condition. Symptoms may include:

  • Hemorrhage (unusual bleeding)
  • Fever
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Fatigue
  • Rash
  • Diarrhea or bloody diarrhea
  • Poor appetite
  • Severe vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Back pain
  • Muscle cramps
  • No urine output or high urine output
  • Pale skin
  • Nosebleeds
  • Swelling of the tissues
  • Eye inflammation
  • An abdominal mass you can feel

Chronic Kidney Failure Symptoms

Symptoms of chronic kidney failure include:

  • Poor appetite
  • Vomiting
  • Bone pain and/or muscle cramps
  • Headache
  • Insomnia
  • Itching and/or dry skin
  • Easily fatigued
  • Urine problems:
    • High urine output or no urine output
    • Recurrent urinary tract infections
    • Urinary incontinence
  • Pale skin
  • Bad breath
  • Trouble hearing
  • An abdominal mass you can feel
  • Tissue swelling
  • Poor muscle tone
  • Change in mental alertness
  • Metallic taste in mouth

Diagnosing Kidney Failure

If you experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor for an expert diagnosis. We use a variety of diagnostic methods, including blood tests and an ultrasound, to confirm a diagnosis of kidney failure. Learn more about kidney failure diagnosis at Stanford.

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are research studies that evaluate a new medical approach, device, drug, or other treatment. As a Stanford Health Care patient, you may have access to the latest, advanced clinical trials.

Open trials refer to studies currently accepting participants. Closed trials are not currently enrolling, but may open in the future.

Closed Trials

Clinics for Symptoms