Unexplained weight loss and kidney disease: what to know

Kidney problems may affect appetite, taste, fluid balance or energy, while treatment and dietary changes can also alter intake. Weight loss may instead accompany digestive disease, depression, thyroid overactivity, diabetes or infection. A kidney condition presenting with weight loss does not mean that every person with weight loss has kidney disease.

Tell the clinician about swelling, changes in urination, foamy or bloody urine, nausea, itching, fatigue, thirst, pain, fever and any recent change in prescribed medicines or diet.

Book a primary-care review if the loss is continuing or unintentional. Take a medicine list, note appetite and fluid intake, and record urinary changes. Assessment may include blood pressure measurement, examination, blood tests for kidney function and urine testing; the choice depends on your symptoms and history. Do not change prescribed treatment without advice.

Seek urgent care for very little or no urine, severe breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, fainting, severe weakness, repeated vomiting or sudden swelling. Request prompt medical review for blood in urine, persistent fever, flank pain, worsening swelling or inability to maintain fluids.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest a kidney problem, which blood and urine checks are needed, whether a medicine could affect appetite, and how to maintain nutrition safely.