Signs of kidney failure often appear very slowly.

You may barely notice when these signs and symptoms start, and may not even seek medical care until you are really bothered by one or more signs of kidney failure.

Swelling in hands, face, feet and legs may appear as a result of water build-up. This might make it difficult to sleep at night – and you may need to use an extra pillow to breathe comfortably. The waste product accumulation eventually causes an upset stomach with nausea and even vomiting.

You may notice a metallic taste in your mouth or you may start losing your appetite.

Water and salt accumulation may increase your blood pressure.

You may experience dry and itchy skin. This may be caused by the build up of a mineral called phosphorus in your body.

Tiredness and feeling cold may be caused by a build up of waste products and anaemia.

An accumulation of waste products may also make it difficult to concentrate or you may begin to get confused.