Symptoms of kidney disease include: lethargy; exhaustion; weakness; shortness of breath; nausea; dizziness; swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, hands, or face; back pain; unexplained high blood pressure; severe itching; changes in urination frequency (less or more than usual) and color; metallic taste in the mouth; or trouble concentrating.

Unfortunately, symptoms are not often apparent until the patient develops serious kidney disease. Kidney disease and failure are even more prevalent in African American, Latino, Asian and Native American populations.

If you feel that you have any of the symptoms above or suspect kidney disease, please see your doctor. If kidney disease is left untreated, it can lead to additional kidney damage and possible kidney failure.