Kidney failure, also known as end-stage renal disease, is a condition where the kidneys are no longer able to function properly.
As the kidneys are responsible for filtering waste and excess fluid from the body, when they fail, it can lead to a buildup of toxins and fluid in the blood, which can cause a variety of symptoms. Early detection is key to managing kidney failure, so it’s important to know the signs and symptoms to look out for.
1. Changes in Urination
One of the earliest signs of kidney failure is changes in urination. This can include increased or decreased urination, or difficulty urinating. Urine may also be foamy or dark in color, or have a foul odor.
These changes are the result of the kidneys’ decreased ability to filter waste from the blood, leading to a buildup of toxins in the urine.
2. Swelling
Kidney failure can cause swelling in various parts of the body, including the feet, ankles, and legs. This is due to the buildup of fluid in the body, which occurs when the kidneys are no longer able to remove excess fluid from the blood.
3. Fatigue
As the toxins and waste products build up in the bloodstream, they can cause fatigue and weakness.
This is because the body is no longer able to efficiently remove these waste products, leading to a buildup that can interfere with normal bodily functions.
Related Article
Understanding Kidney Failure Symptoms
4. Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath is another common symptom of kidney failure. This can occur due to fluid accumulation in the lungs, which can make it difficult to breathe.
5. Nausea and Vomiting
Kidney failure can also cause nausea and vomiting, which occur due to a buildup of waste products in the bloodstream. This can irritate the lining of the stomach, leading to feelings of nausea and the urge to vomit.
6. Metallic Taste in the Mouth
Many people with kidney failure report a metallic taste in their mouth. This can occur due to the buildup of waste products in the bloodstream, which can affect the sense of taste.
7. Muscle Cramps
Kidney failure can cause muscle cramps, which occur due to an imbalance of electrolytes in the bloodstream. This can affect the body’s ability to regulate muscle contractions, leading to painful cramps.
8. Loss of Appetite
Kidney failure can also lead to a loss of appetite, which occurs due to the buildup of waste products in the bloodstream. This can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb nutrients from food, leading to a decreased appetite.
9. Itching
Itching is a common symptom of kidney failure, particularly in the later stages of the disease. This occurs due to a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream, which can cause irritation and itchiness of the skin.
10. High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a common complication of kidney failure. This occurs because the kidneys are responsible for regulating blood pressure, and when they begin to fail, blood pressure can rise as a result.
