Kidneys are responsible for filtering waste, such as urea, acids, etc., out of your body in the form of urine. Kidney disease can eventually lead to kidney failure, in which one or both of your kidneys completely stop working. Many people may be unaware that they have kidney disease as the symptoms may not appear in the early stages. Even if there are signs, people may associate them with other conditions that may lead them astray from the actual problem. It is essential to get urine tests done annually and show them to a Nephrologist in Karachi.
Signs of kidney disease
- Fatigue
Are you always tired? Well, it could be a problem with your kidneys. Kidneys also help in the production of red blood cells. When your kidneys are not properly functioning, it may lessen oxygen production in your body due to the decreasing red blood cells. It can disturb the oxygen level in your muscles and brain, making you feel tired and have low stamina. The buildup of toxins due to renal impairment can also cause lethargy.
- Dry and itchy skin
You may feel itchy as your blood fills up with more pollutants due to kidney impairment. The rise of toxins in the blood cause itchiness, which may result in a rash. As kidney illness progresses, your blood may lose essential nutrients that your body needs. It can cause severe itch, dryness, and rashes.
- Loss of appetite
Kidney disease can lead to nausea and vomiting because of the high impurities in your blood. It can lead to an upset stomach and kill the desire to eat anything. It can sometimes result in weight loss too. People with kidney disease may need to talk to their doctor about tips to improve their diet. Not eating enough can deprive you of the essential vitamins that you get from food.
- Back pain
Most people may ignore backache and may relate it to everyday stress. Persistent back aches or pain on the sides of the back can be kidney pain that you may mistake for simple back pain. Kidneys are located under the ribcage, and kidney pain occurs in the back. Kidney pain is either a light pain or a sharp pain that may come and go. Consult a nephrologist in Chinar International Hospital if you feel that you are experiencing kidney pain, as it can signal chronic kidney disease.
- Inflammation
Swelling in the feet or face can be a sign of kidney disease. When the kidneys are not working well, they may be unable to rid your body of waste and sodium. Sodium buildup can lead to swollen hands or feet. It can also make your face puffy. Puffiness around the eyes can also signify kidney issues, as it may mean that protein is leaking into the urine.
- Changes in urine color
Urine color can be a solid tell-tale sign that you should get your kidneys checked. Brown or red urine can mean there is an issue with your kidneys. Blood in the urine is also a symptom of failing kidneys. It can also be due to kidney stones, infection, or tumors. If you have a family history of kidney illnesses, it is best to pay attention to the color of your urine.
- Foamy and painful urine
Foamy or cloudy urine can occur due to an influx of proteins in the urine. Frothy urine can indicate that your kidneys are getting damaged. Kidney impairment can also make it hard for you to pee. A painful or burning sensation in the urine is also an indicator of deteriorating kidney health.
Conclusion
Kidney disease can be lethal if it does not get proper treatment on time. You should be aware of the early signs of kidney disease in order to identify if you are suffering from it. Ignoring these signs can lead to chronic kidney diseases. Fortunately, advancements in medicine allow people with kidney disease to live longer through dialysis or kidney transplant.
