Millions of people are living with kidney disease that they are unaware of. While there are a number of signs and symptoms that point to kidney disease, it often goes unrecognised, as these signs can point to other conditions. In addition, people with kidney disease often don’t experience any symptoms until the later stages, which is why only 10% of people suffering with this condition know that they have it. The good news is that by knowing what to look out for, you can catch this condition early on and get the treatment you need. Here are some possible signs that you could be suffering from kidney disease. If you’re struggling with one or more of these symptoms, then it’s worth a visit to your doctor.
#1. You have less energy, are often tired, and have trouble concentrating
Severe decreases in kidney function lead to a build-up of impurities and toxins in the blood which, as a result, can cause you to feel more tired than usual and have difficulty focusing. Anaemia is another common complication of kidney disease, which can lead to feeling weak and fatigued.
#2. You need to urinate more often
Feeling the need to urinate more often than usual, particularly at night, can be a symptom of kidney disease. This is because when the kidney’s filters are damaged, it can lead to an increased urge to urinate. If you can see blood or foam in your urine, this can also be a sign of something wrong with your kidneys, so it’s important to get checked out as soon as possible. Kidney doctors such as those at westsiderenal.com.au can help.
#3. Your skin is dry and itchy
This could be down to a skin condition, however, dry and itchy skin can be a sign of kidney disease, so get medical attention if you are suffering with this. Healthy kidneys remove extra fluid, toxins and waste from the body, maintain the right amount of minerals in your blood, and keep your bones strong. When the kidneys are no longer able to achieve the right balance of minerals and nutrients in your blood, it can lead to dry, itchy skin caused by mineral and bone diseases.
#4. You’ve lost your appetite
A poor appetite can be caused by many things, but a build-up of toxins caused by reduced kidney function can be a possible source. If you’ve not been yourself when it comes to food for a while, then it’s worth checking in with your doctor.
#5. You’ve got swollen feet and ankles
Swelling in your feet and ankles can be caused by sodium retention due to impaired kidney function. It can also be a symptom of issues like liver disease, heart disease, and leg vein problems, so you should seek your doctor’s advice if this is becoming a problem for you.
#6. Preventing kidney disease
The good news is that kidney disease is preventable. You can combat it by eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, and getting enough exercise. A healthy lifestyle will help to keep your blood sugar under control, which is essential for prevention.
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, medical attention is recommended to rule out kidney disease and get appropriate treatment.