Kidney disease is a silent killer and it’s a common problem that affects millions of people across the world.

Your kidneys are essential organs that help filter waste and excess fluid from your blood, regulate blood pressure, and produce hormones that assist in the production of red blood cells. However, when your kidneys become damaged or diseased, they can no longer function efficiently, and this can lead to serious health complications. Here are 8 symptoms of kidney disease you should never ignore:.

1. Fatigue and Weakness

Feeling tired and weak all the time is a common sign of kidney disease as the kidneys struggle to filter out toxins and waste from the blood. As a result, the body uses more energy, leading to constant fatigue and weakness.

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, talk to your doctor and get a kidney function test to rule out any underlying problems.

2. Swelling in Your Hands and Feet

When your kidneys are not functioning properly, they can cause a buildup of excess fluid in the body, leading to swelling in your hands, ankles, feet, and face.

This swelling is known as edema and is caused by the accumulation of fluid in the body’s tissues. Edema can be a sign of kidney disease, especially if it is persistent.

3. Shortness of Breath

People with kidney disease tend to experience shortness of breath, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. This happens because the kidneys play a vital role in producing a hormone called erythropoietin, which helps in the production of red blood cells.

When the kidneys are damaged, the levels of erythropoietin go down, leading to shortness of breath and other breathing difficulties.

4. Urination Problems

Kidney disease can lead to a variety of urinary problems, including a frequent urge to urinate, burning sensation during urination, and the presence of blood in urine. Some patients may also experience difficulty urinating and a decreased urine output.

Talk to your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms as they can signify an underlying kidney problem.

5. High Blood Pressure

Your kidneys play a vital role in regulating blood pressure. When they’re not functioning properly, they can cause blood pressure to rise, leading to hypertension. High blood pressure can further damage your kidneys, creating a vicious cycle.

Related Article Early Signs of Kidney Dysfunction

If you have persistent hypertension, it’s essential to check your kidney function.

6. Nausea and Vomiting

Kidney disease can lead to a build-up of toxins in the blood, leading to nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. These symptoms can be quite debilitating and can significantly affect your quality of life.

If you’re experiencing persistent nausea or vomiting, talk to your doctor and get screened for kidney disease.

7. Metallic Taste in Your Mouth

One unusual symptom of kidney disease is a metallic taste in the mouth. This happens due to the buildup of toxins in the blood, which can alter your taste buds’ sensitivity.

If you’re experiencing this symptom, it’s essential to talk to your doctor and get checked out.

8. Skin Rash and Itching

Kidney disease can lead to skin rashes and intense itching. This happens because the kidneys are not filtering out the toxins from the blood, leading to an accumulation of waste products under the skin.

If you’re experiencing skin rashes or itching, it’s essential to get a kidney function test done to rule out any underlying problems.

Conclusion:.

Kidney disease is a serious health complication that needs to be addressed immediately. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, talk to your doctor.

A kidney function test can help diagnose any underlying problems, and early diagnosis can save your life.