8 Warning Symptoms of Kidney Damage

Kidney damage can be very serious. Knowing the symptoms can help you get early treatment.

8 Warning Symptoms of Kidney Damage

Here are eight warning symptoms of kidney damage:

1. Fatigue and Weakness

If you feel tired all the time, your kidneys might not be working well. Healthy kidneys remove waste from your blood. When they do not work properly, waste builds up, making you feel weak and tired.

2. Swelling

Swelling in your feet, ankles, hands, or face can be a sign of kidney damage. Kidneys help remove extra fluid from your body. When they are damaged, fluid can build up, causing swelling.

3. Changes in Urination

Changes in urination can signal kidney problems. Watch for these signs:

• Frequent urination: Needing to pee more often, especially at night.
• Less urination: Peeing less often than usual.
• Foamy urine: Lots of bubbles in your urine, which can mean protein is leaking from your kidneys.
• Blood in urine: Seeing blood in your urine is a serious sign.

4. Shortness of Breath

When kidneys are damaged, extra fluid can build up in your lungs. This can make it hard to breathe. Anemia, a condition where you do not have enough red blood cells, can also cause shortness of breath. Damaged kidneys can lead to anemia.

5. High Blood Pressure

Healthy kidneys help control your blood pressure. Damaged kidneys might cause high blood pressure. If you already have high blood pressure, it can make kidney damage worse.

6. Back Pain

Pain in your lower back or side can be a sign of kidney damage. This pain can be sharp or dull. It might be felt on one or both sides of your back. Sometimes, this pain is caused by kidney stones or infections.

7. Nausea and Vomiting

When waste builds up in your body due to kidney damage, you might feel nauseous or vomit. This can also cause a loss of appetite and weight loss.

8. Itchy Skin

Healthy kidneys remove waste from your blood. When kidneys are damaged, waste can build up and cause itchy skin. This itching can be very uncomfortable and can happen all over your body.

Conclusion

If you notice any of these symptoms, see a doctor right away. Early treatment can help protect your kidneys and keep you healthy. Taking care of your kidneys is important for your overall health. Stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and avoid smoking to keep your kidneys in good shape.