Kidney failure, also known as renal failure, occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to function properly.

The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products and excess fluids from the blood, as well as regulating blood pressure and producing hormones that stimulate red blood cell production and maintain bone health.

When the kidneys fail, waste products accumulate in the body, leading to numerous symptoms and complications. Here are 30 common symptoms of kidney failure and their causes:.

Symptoms of Kidney Failure

1. Fatigue

One of the earliest symptoms of kidney failure is fatigue, which is caused by a buildup of waste products in the blood. As waste products accumulate, they can interfere with the production of red blood cells, leading to anemia.

2. Swelling

Another common symptom of kidney failure is swelling, particularly in the legs, ankles, feet, and face. This is caused by a buildup of fluid in the body, which occurs when the kidneys are no longer able to remove excess fluid from the blood.

3. Shortness of breath

When the kidneys fail, excess fluid can accumulate in the lungs, causing shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. This can be particularly dangerous for people with existing respiratory problems.

4. Nausea and vomiting

A buildup of waste products in the blood can also lead to nausea and vomiting. This can be particularly common in the morning, as waste products can accumulate overnight.

5. Loss of appetite

Kidney failure can also cause a loss of appetite, as waste products in the blood can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb nutrients properly. This can lead to malnutrition and other complications.

6. Metallic taste in the mouth

A buildup of waste products in the blood can also cause a metallic taste in the mouth, which can be unpleasant and persistent.

7. Itching

As waste products accumulate in the blood, they can cause itching and skin irritation. This is caused by a buildup of urea, which is normally removed from the body by the kidneys.

8. Muscle cramps

Kidney failure can also cause muscle cramps, particularly in the legs. This is caused by a buildup of waste products, as well as an imbalance of electrolytes in the body.

9. Swollen or tender abdomen

As excess fluid accumulates in the body, it can also lead to a swollen or tender abdomen. This can be particularly uncomfortable and can interfere with normal activities.

10. Changes in urine output

Kidney failure can cause changes in urine output, including frequent urination, reduced urine output, or the complete cessation of urination. This is caused by a failure of the kidneys to properly regulate the production of urine.

11. Difficulty sleeping

Persistent itching, cramps, and other symptoms of kidney failure can make it difficult to sleep. This can worsen fatigue and other symptoms.

12. High blood pressure

Kidney failure can also lead to high blood pressure, which can further damage the kidneys and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

13. Frequent infections

Kidney failure can weaken the immune system, making it more susceptible to infections. This can include urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections.

14. Feeling cold all the time

A buildup of waste products in the blood can also interfere with blood circulation, causing a persistent feeling of coldness.

15. Confusion

In severe cases of kidney failure, waste products can accumulate in the brain, leading to confusion, disorientation, and other cognitive problems.

16. Pale skin

Anemia caused by kidney failure can also lead to pale, unhealthy-looking skin.

17. Dry skin

As the kidneys fail, they can no longer regulate fluid levels in the body, leading to dry, flaky skin.

18. Eye problems

Chronic kidney failure can cause damage to the eyes, leading to problems with vision and dryness in the eyes.

19. Weakness

A buildup of waste products in the blood can also lead to weakness and a feeling of overall malaise.

20. Bone pain

The kidneys are responsible for producing hormones that regulate bone health, so kidney failure can lead to bone pain and other skeletal problems.

21. Increased thirst

As the kidneys fail, they may no longer be able to regulate fluid levels in the body, leading to increased thirst.

22. High cholesterol

Kidney failure can lead to an imbalance of cholesterol in the blood, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

23. Headache

Waste products in the blood can cause persistent headaches and migraines.

24. Restless legs

A buildup of waste products and electrolyte imbalances can cause restless legs or tingling in the limbs.

25. Puffy eyes

A buildup of fluid in the body can cause puffy eyes and dark circles under the eyes.

26. Sexual dysfunction

Kidney failure can interfere with hormone production and blood flow, leading to sexual dysfunction and infertility.

27. Bleeding and bruising

Kidney failure can interfere with blood clotting, leading to increased bleeding and bruising.

28. Increased susceptibility to toxins

As the kidneys fail, they become less effective at removing toxins from the body, increasing the risk of poisoning.

29. Seizures

Severe kidney failure can cause seizures and other neurological problems.

30. Coma

In the most severe cases of kidney failure, a buildup of waste products in the blood can cause a coma, which can be life-threatening.

Causes of Kidney Failure

Kidney failure can be caused by a variety of factors, including:.

1. Diabetes

Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure, accounting for around 44% of all cases. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys and impair their ability to function properly.

2. High blood pressure

High blood pressure is another common cause of kidney failure, accounting for around 28% of all cases. Over time, high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste products.

3. Glomerulonephritis

Glomerulonephritis is an inflammation of the kidneys that can be caused by infections, autoimmune disorders, or other factors. It can damage the glomeruli, which are the tiny filters in the kidneys that remove waste products from the blood.

4. Infections

Infections such as pyelonephritis or sepsis can lead to kidney failure in severe cases, as can other conditions such as nephritis or kidney stones.

5. Kidney damage

Physical damage to the kidneys, such as from an injury or surgery, can impair their ability to function properly.

6. Congenital defects

Some people are born with congenital defects that affect the function of one or both kidneys.

7. Certain medications

Some medications, such as over-the-counter painkillers or antibiotics, can cause kidney damage in rare cases.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or have a condition that puts you at risk for kidney failure, it is important to speak with your doctor as soon as possible.

Early detection and treatment can help prevent further damage and improve your overall health.