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Kidney conditions in women

Your kidneys filter waste from your blood, balance fluids and minerals, and help control blood pressure.

Cross-section illustration of a kidney
Illustration: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0 (resized)

Conditions that affect your kidneys 2

Autoimmune and chronic conditions that can involve your kidneys. Each guide covers early signs, labs to ask about, and when to see a doctor.

Signs worth getting checked

  • Foamy, pink, or dark urine
  • Swelling in the legs, feet, or around the eyes
  • New high blood pressure
  • Abnormal creatinine or eGFR on blood work

Ingredients that affect your kidneys

Vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other supplements commonly used for the kidneys. Each one links to its full guide.

About your kidneys

What it does

Each kidney contains about a million tiny filters. The kidneys also regulate blood pressure, help make red blood cells, and activate vitamin D. Kidney problems often cause no symptoms until they're advanced, so urine and blood tests matter.

Common issues

  • Urinary tract infections
  • Kidney stones
  • Damage from high blood pressure or diabetes
  • Harm from regular use of NSAID painkillers such as ibuprofen
Dr. Lesher, ND

Wondering if your symptoms fit a pattern?

Dr. Lesher is a naturopathic doctor who specializes in women's autoimmune and chronic conditions. Since 2020, she has helped more than 900 patients overcome and heal from their conditions.

Book a consult now