Understanding Fatigue in Kidney Failure: Key Symptoms and How to Cope
- Rapidcare
- Sep 25, 2025
- 4 min read
Feeling tired all the time is one of the most common struggles for people living with kidney disease or kidney failure. But this isn't ordinary tiredness; it's a deep, draining kidney fatigue that rest alone doesn't always fix.
Understanding why it happens, what symptoms to look out for, and simple steps that may help can give you more control in daily life.
What is fatigue in kidney disease?
Fatigue in kidney disease is more than just feeling sleepy. Many people describe it as being drained, heavy, or completely “wiped out”. It affects both body and mind, making everyday tasks or hobbies harder to enjoy.
Why does kidney failure cause fatigue?
Several factors linked to kidney disease and kidney failure can contribute to fatigue:
Waste build-up and dialysis recovery – When kidneys can’t filter properly, toxins remain in the blood. Dialysis helps clear them, but the treatment itself can leave you feeling worn out.
Anaemia (low red blood cells) – With fewer red blood cells, less oxygen circulates in the body. This leads to low energy, dizziness, and poor concentration.
Sleep disruption – Itching, restless legs, or frequent trips to the loo at night can disturb rest. Conditions like sleep apnoea or anxiety can add to the problem.
Symptoms of fatigue in kidney disease
Kidney fatigue can show up in different ways. You may:
Wake up tired even after a full night’s sleep
Struggle with simple daily tasks
Notice poor focus, memory lapses, or “brain fog”
Feel low, anxious, or irritable
Lose interest in activities you usually enjoy
If your energy levels change suddenly, let your kidney team know. Fatigue may sometimes be linked to treatable causes such as anaemia or sleep problems.
Tips for managing fatigue with kidney disease
There isn’t one single fix for fatigue in kidney disease. What helps depends on the cause, but many people find these everyday steps make a difference:
Sleep support
Avoid caffeine after lunch and keep naps to 20–30 minutes
Go to bed and wake up at regular times
Try a calming evening routine: gentle stretching, soft music, or writing worries down
Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet
If sleep is still difficult, your kidney team can help with symptoms such as itching or restless legs
Everyday energy tips
Stick to dialysis sessions and medication as prescribed
Allow short rests on low-energy days, but avoid long naps
Try light activity such as stretching, housework, or a short walk — even 10 minutes in the garden can lift your mood
Follow your team’s advice on fluid intake, as drinking too much or too little can make fatigue worse
Plan your day around your natural rhythm — save harder tasks for when your energy is highest
Food and fatigue
What you eat can also play a big role in how tired you feel with kidney disease. A diet that’s too heavy in protein can create more waste for your kidneys to filter, while too little protein can cause weakness and low energy. Low iron or vitamin intake can worsen anaemia, one of the main causes of fatigue. Staying on top of potassium and phosphorus levels and keeping blood sugar steady if you have diabetes can also make a difference.
For more guidance, see our blog on Kidney Disease Diet Tips: How to Build a Kidney-Friendly Plate.
Not sure where to start or want to talk it through first? Our friendly team can explain how our service works and guide you to the right next step.
Frequently Asked Questions: Fatigue with Kidney Disease
1. Why do people with kidney disease feel fatigue?
People with kidney problems often feel fatigue because waste products build up in the blood, red blood cell levels may be low (anaemia), sleep is frequently disrupted, and dialysis itself can leave the body drained. NHS guidance on kidney disease symptoms explains these links in more detail.
2. Can kidney failure cause extreme tiredness?
Yes. Advanced kidney failure can cause extreme tiredness because toxins stay in the bloodstream, oxygen supply is reduced by anaemia, and sleep can be disturbed.
This deep fatigue goes beyond ordinary tiredness and affects both body and mind. Some people describe it as feeling constantly drained, even after rest.
3. At what stage of kidney disease does fatigue start?
Fatigue can appear at any stage of kidney disease, but it becomes more noticeable in the later stages when kidney function is reduced or dialysis is needed.
Even in early stages, people sometimes report ongoing tiredness if anaemia, sleep disruption, or other health factors are present.
4. How can kidney patients manage fatigue?
Management usually means addressing underlying causes such as anaemia or poor sleep. Gentle exercise, pacing daily activities, and following treatment plans can all help. Building healthy sleep routines and talking with the kidney team about symptoms are also important steps. Keeping hydrated within your fluid allowance and eating well-balanced meals may also support energy levels.
5. What are the symptoms of advanced kidney disease?
Alongside fatigue, advanced kidney disease may cause swelling in the legs, shortness of breath, itchy skin, nausea, muscle cramps, changes in urination, and poor appetite. These symptoms vary but often overlap with signs of worsening kidney function.
6. Does fatigue from kidney disease affect daily life?
Yes. Many people find that fatigue impacts work, family time, and hobbies. It can limit concentration, reduce stamina, and make everyday tasks harder to manage. Learning to pace activities and prioritise rest can help maintain quality of life.
7. How long does fatigue last with kidney disease?
Fatigue in kidney disease can be ongoing, especially in later stages, but its severity often changes from day to day. With the right treatment and support, many people find ways to ease tiredness and improve energy levels.
Kidney fatigue is a common but manageable challenge. By understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, and making small lifestyle changes, you can take steps toward feeling more energised.
Life with kidney disease is about living fully, not just coping. With our discreet NHS prescription deliveries and caring support, getting started is quick and simple.