The kidneys are important organs that play a crucial role in eliminating waste products and toxins from the body.
They also regulate the levels of various minerals and electrolytes, produce hormones that help regulate blood pressure and red blood cell production. However, various factors can cause damage to the kidneys, resulting in their inability to function properly. In this article, we will discuss the warning signals of a kidney issue and ways to prevent kidney damage.
1. Swelling in the Legs, Feet, or Hands
Swelling in the legs, feet, or hands is a common symptom of kidney disease. This happens when the kidneys are unable to remove excess fluid from the body, which leads to edema or swelling.
In addition, the reduced ability of the kidneys to produce urine can further aggravate the swelling.
2. Urine Changes
Changes in urine color, frequency, and texture can indicate underlying kidney problems. For instance, urine that appears foamy or bubbly could suggest protein in the urine, which is a sign of kidney damage.
If you notice blood in your urine, this could indicate an infection, kidney stones, or even cancer. Dark-colored urine can indicate dehydration, liver disease or a kidney issue.
3. Fatigue
Kidney damage can lead to fatigue, weakness, and lack of energy. This is often due to the fact that the kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood.
When a kidney disease impedes this function, toxic products stay in the blood, which can cause fatigue.
4. Itchy Skin
Itching in the skin is commonly associated with kidney disease. The kidneys play a role in keeping the right balance of minerals and electrolytes in the body.
If the kidneys fail, then there is an excess of phosphorus in the blood that can cause itchiness.
5. Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath can occur if the kidneys are not functioning correctly. This happens when the kidneys release too much potassium into the bloodstream, which can cause muscle weakness and difficulties in breathing.
Apart from this, anemia can also cause reduced oxygen capacity in the body weakening the ability to breathe.
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6. Hypertension
High blood pressure is a warning sign for kidney disease. The kidneys regulate blood pressure by releasing hormones that control blood vessels’ contraction and relaxation.
However, when the kidneys are damaged, they may not function properly, causing high blood pressure. If hypertension remains for an extended time, can lead to various health issues related to the heart, brain, and kidneys.
7. Leg, Joint and Back Pain
Pain in the legs, joints, or back can indicate underlying health issues, including kidney problems. Kidney disease can cause calcium to build up in the bones, making them brittle and vulnerable to pain.
There is also an increase of uric acid in the body that may result in crystals formation in the joints leading to inflammation and pain.
8. Nausea and Vomiting
Kidney disease can cause nausea and vomiting. This happens when toxins build up in the bloodstream. In addition, a build-up of acid in the blood can cause nausea and problems in the digestive system.
9. Bad breath, Metallic Taste in the Mouth
Bad breath is common with kidney disease. This happens when toxins build up in the blood resulting in an unpleasant smell. Patients with kidney disease claim that they experience a metallic taste.
This can happen due to an increase in urea in the blood that can make food taste unpleasant.
10. Weight Loss and Loss of Appetite
Weight loss and a loss of appetite often occur in patients with kidney disease. This can happen due to the accumulation of toxins in the blood that suppress the appetite. Patients are also less likely to eat due to the discomfort caused by the disease.
Apart from weight loss, patients may experience muscle wasting, brittle bones, and fatigue due to kidney issues.
Prevention of Kidney Disease
The best way to prevent kidney disease is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Here are a few ways to help prevent kidney disease:.
- Drink plenty of water every day. This helps in flushing the toxins and minerals out of the body
- Reduce the amount of salt in your diet. Eating a low-salt diet helps reduce high blood pressure, thus decreasing chances of kidney disease
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Avoid smoking. Smoking increases the risk of kidney disease and slow down the blood flow to the kidneys
- Stay physically active. Regular exercise helps reduce the risk of high blood pressure and a range of other health issues associated with kidney disease.
- If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, keep it under control. Follow the advice of your doctor
- Regular check-ups. Regular check-ups can recognize warning signals of kidney disease at an early stage where it is easier to manage
Conclusion
It is essential to understand the warning signs of kidney issues to prevent complications. If you experience any of the above symptoms, visit your doctor ASAP for diagnosis and treatment plan.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, drinking plenty of fluids, monitoring blood pressure, and regular check-ups may help prevent kidney disease.
