Kidney diseases can present with unclear symptoms, so it is essential to take them into account in order to identify them in time and receive a timely diagnosis.
The kidneys are the organs responsible for purifying the body in addition to regulating the amount of fluids in it. Among its functions, its ability to balance many components present in the blood, such as sodium, potassium, calcium and others responsible for maintaining health, also stands out. However, as with other parts of the body, they are likely to develop various alterations that reduce their function and cause serious diseases.
Data from the National Kidney Foundation estimates that around 26 million people in the United States have some type of kidney damage. What is most worrying is that many of these have some type of relationship with a sedentary lifestyle and other unhealthy habits. The big problem is that they are not usually pronounced through strong symptoms, which makes their diagnosis and timely treatment difficult.
However, thanks to various analyzes in sick patients, it has been possible to determine some signals that could be key in the early detection of this type of pathology. Keep them in mind!
1. Changes in urine
The kidneys are responsible for producing urine and, for this reason, one of the first symptoms of illness is manifested by alterations in it. The need to urinate more or less frequently than usual may be a sign that something is wrong.
It may also have a more yellow color, accompanied by a strong odor that is far from normal.
2. Fluid retention
Although fluid retention can be caused by several factors, kidney diseases are one of its main causes. As the kidneys have difficulty regulating fluids normally, fluids accumulate and lead to swelling in the legs, ankles, face, and other parts of the body.
3. Feeling tired
If the kidneys are having difficulty carrying out their functions there is a high probability of suffering from disorders such as anemia and fatigue. This occurs because they are responsible for producing a hormone called erythropoietin that plays a primary role in the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen for the blood. If there is any type of kidney damage, the amount of this hormone decreases and, therefore, it affects the oxygen transported through the blood flow. As a consequence, the brain begins to feel more exhausted and physical performance declines.
4. Itching
As waste is not eliminated properly in kidney failure, it is very likely that recurring symptoms such as itching or irritation will occur. In particular, there is a strong discomfort that does not calm down on a superficial level because it is as if something is itching from within.
5. Ammonia breath
Some people often experience a metallic ammonia taste when they have kidney problems. This occurs because urea levels in the blood increase due to a decrease in kidney function. Urea decomposes into ammonia upon contact with saliva and this is why it generates bad breath.
6. Nausea and vomiting
Excess toxic substances in the blood increase the levels of urea nitrogen in the bloodstream, which causes stimulation of the gastrointestinal mucosa and symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
7. Shortness of breath
Feeling difficult to breathe normally can also be a warning sign of a kidney problem. This occurs when fluid builds up in the lungs or when there are fewer red blood cells that carry oxygen.
8. Dizziness
If anemia occurs due to kidney problems, it is common to suffer constant dizziness or a feeling of instability. This occurs because the brain does not receive sufficient amounts of oxygen due to the decrease in red blood cells.
9. Unexplained back pain
Experiencing pain or a feeling of tension in your back for no apparent reason is a sign of an infection or undiagnosed kidney disease. If these organs have problems in their functioning, it is common to experience pain, stiffness or inflammation in the joints. If the colic is strong and extends to the sides of the abdomen, it is better to consult a doctor.
10. Hiccups and decreased appetite
Patients with kidney failure often experience several episodes of hiccups, even several times a day. These usually last longer than normal hiccups and almost always make you feel full.
Finally, we have a question… Do you have a family history of kidney disease? If so, it is best to have constant medical check-ups to verify how much genetic risk there is and how to reduce it.
1 comment
Éste paquete puede detener el deterioro ? Según el nefrólogo mis riñones están trabajando al 15 %.