Kidney Disease Often Goes Unnoticed Until Late Stages, Warn Doctors at CARE Hospitals on World Kidney Day

Hyderabad, 11th March, 2026: Marking World Kidney Day 2026, doctors at CARE Hospitals, Hyderabad have raised concern over the growing burden of kidney disease in India and stressed the importance of early detection, regular screening and lifestyle changes to prevent serious kidney complications.

Kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste from the blood, maintaining fluid balance, regulating blood pressure and supporting several vital body functions. However, kidney disease is often referred to as a “silent condition” because it may not show noticeable symptoms until the disease has significantly progressed.

Health experts point out that nearly 10–15% of the Indian population is estimated to be affected by some form of chronic kidney disease (CKD), while a large number of cases remain undiagnosed due to lack of awareness and absence of early symptoms. With the increasing prevalence of diabetes and hypertension in India, the risk of kidney disease is also rising, as these conditions remain among the leading causes of kidney failure.

Doctors explain that diabetes and hypertension can silently damage the kidneys over time. Persistently high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes can damage the tiny blood vessels in the kidneys that filter waste from the blood, gradually reducing their ability to function effectively. Similarly, uncontrolled high blood pressure places excess pressure on these delicate blood vessels, causing them to weaken or narrow, eventually impairing kidney function.

Dr. P. Vikranth Reddy, Clinical Director & Sr. Consultant – Nephrology, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, said, “Many people are unaware that kidney disease can develop silently without clear symptoms in the early stages. Diabetes and high blood pressure are two major risk factors that gradually damage the kidneys over several years. Regular health screening is extremely important, especially for people with these conditions, to detect kidney problems early and prevent serious complications.”

Doctors warn that ignoring kidney problems can lead to progressive kidney damage and eventual kidney failure, a stage where the kidneys can no longer perform their essential functions. At this point, patients may require dialysis or kidney transplantation to survive. Untreated kidney disease can also lead to complications such as fluid retention, anemia, bone disorders, cardiovascular disease and electrolyte imbalance.

Experts say being aware of early warning signs can help in seeking timely medical care. Some symptoms that may indicate kidney problems include swelling in the feet, ankles or around the eyes, changes in urination patterns such as frequent or reduced urination, foamy or blood-tinged urine, persistent fatigue, nausea or loss of appetite, muscle cramps, sleep disturbances and uncontrolled high blood pressure. Doctors recommend consulting a physician if these symptoms persist, particularly for individuals with diabetes, hypertension, obesity, a family history of kidney disease, those above 40 years of age, or people who frequently use painkillers or certain medications that may affect kidney function. Simple blood and urine tests can help detect kidney disease at an early stage.

Dr. Ratan Jha, Clinical Director & Senior Consultant, Nephrologist & Transplant Physician, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, emphasised the importance of preventive care and lifestyle modification. “Kidney disease is largely preventable if risk factors are managed early. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, controlling blood sugar and blood pressure, following a balanced diet with reduced salt intake, staying physically active and avoiding unnecessary use of painkillers can significantly reduce the risk of kidney damage.”

With advancements in medical technology, modern nephrology care now offers advanced diagnostic evaluation, high-efficiency dialysis therapies, comprehensive kidney transplant programs and multidisciplinary management of complex kidney disorders, helping patients manage kidney disease more effectively and improve long-term health outcomes.

As part of World Kidney Day, CARE Hospitals will also conduct awareness initiatives, educational sessions and preventive health check-ups to encourage early detection and better management of kidney-related conditions.

Doctors emphasise that timely screening, awareness and lifestyle modification remain the most effective ways to prevent kidney disease and reduce the growing burden of kidney failure in India.