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11 signs of chronic kidney disease

11 signs of chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease, or CKD, is a severe condition that can lead to an eventual loss of kidney function over several years. The kidneys’ main function is to filter out toxins and maintain a balance of fluid and electrolytes. So, when the organ is affected by chronic kidney disease, one may notice symptoms arising from this imbalance. Recognizing the signs and symptoms at an early stage is crucial for effective and timely treatment.

Dry and itchy skin
One of the many functions of the kidneys is to maintain the right balance of minerals and electrolytes in the body. So, their ability to maintain this balance can take a hit when they are affected by the disease. An imbalance of minerals in the body can cause the skin to feel dry and itchy. Sometimes, the itchiness may become unbearable, so the individual may even find it difficult to sleep. This sign is usually noticed in the advanced stages of the chronic kidney disease.

Blood in the urine
Kidneys are very important for filtering toxins from the body via urine. In that process of making urine, kidneys make sure that they do not filter out blood cells. So, when the kidneys are affected by chronic kidney disease, their ability to keep blood cells in the body can be affected. In addition to signaling a kidney disease, blood in the urine can indicate tumors, kidney stones, or an infection.

Change in the frequency of urination
Chronic kidney disease is a condition that affects the functioning of the kidneys. One of the common signs of this disease is a change in the frequency of urination. This means that a person may either urinate more or less than usual. In the case of increased urination, people may also notice that the frequency increases at night, which can be inconvenient and lead to disturbed sleep. It is recommended to consult a doctor if such symptoms are experienced, as early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further kidney damage.

Fatigue and weakness
Chronic kidney disease can impede the kidneys’ ability to filter toxins from the body. This can result in an accumulation of waste products and toxins in the body, leading to feelings of weakness and tiredness. Chronic kidney disease can also give rise to complications such as anemia. Anemia is characterized by a drop in hemoglobin levels, which means insufficient cells transport oxygen throughout the body. As a result, weakness and fatigue may be caused by this complication.

Foamy urine
If one notices that their urine is unusually foamy and has many bubbles, it can be a sign of chronic kidney disease. One may also notice that they must flush multiple times for these bubbles to disappear. This foam or bubbles indicate the presence of protein in the urine. If one notices this sign, they mustn’t overlook it and seek urgent medical attention.

Swollen feet or ankles
A telltale sign of chronic kidney disease is swelling of feet, ankles, or hands due to fluid buildup or water retention. This fluid buildup occurs because the kidneys cannot balance sodium in the body. In such cases, a person must limit their salt intake, as consuming too much sodium can increase this fluid buildup. One may need to be mindful of how much fluid one consumes.

Muscle cramps
Due to chronic kidney disease, when kidneys can not maintain electrolyte balance in the body, it can lead to muscle cramps.

Puffiness around the eyes
One of the symptoms of chronic kidney disease is protein leaking into the urine. When a lot of protein gets lost through the urine, one may notice a persistent puffiness around their eyes.

Loss of appetite
Loss of appetite is also a symptom caused by toxins not getting filtered out of the body. Besides, it is important to note that this is a general sign associated with various other illnesses and conditions.

Trouble concentrating
A buildup of toxins and waste products in the body can also hinder one’s ability to concentrate. So, if one notices this sign, along with other common signs, it may indicate chronic kidney disease.

Trouble sleeping
If the toxins are not filtered out and remain in the bloodstream, it can be difficult to fall asleep. There is also a link between putting on weight and chronic kidney disease. Also, sleep apnea is more common among patients with CKD.

Other signs and symptoms to watch out for
Apart from these, one must watch for other general signs and symptoms associated with chronic kidney disease. These signs include the following:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Shortness of breath
  • Bad breath
  • High blood pressure
  • Chest pain
  • Numbness in arms or feet
  • Darkening of the skin

It is also important for individuals to note that noticing either of these signs does not necessarily indicate chronic kidney disease. However, it is still crucial not to overlook them, as they could indicate some underlying condition. So, upon noticing any symptoms, one must seek medical attention immediately. Also, with chronic kidney disease, early detection is crucial, as it allows doctors to treat the condition at an early stage before it advances to complete kidney failure.

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