Kidneys in our body are each about the size of a fist. They’re located just below the rib cage, and each day they filter 110-140 liters of blood. Kidneys are essential for keeping blood stable and hence allows the body to function properly . They check buildup of wastes and extra fluid in the body, keep electrolyte levels stable, and produce hormones that help regulate blood pressure, produce red blood cells and help bones stay strong.
If the kidneys get damaged, our health becomes threatened. We should understand and recognize the symptoms of kidney damage, so that we can keep your body healthy and strong. Some common symptoms of kidney damage are as follows:
1. Urination Changes
When the kidneys start getting damaged, changes in urination can be an early warning sign.
- Need to urinate at the middle of the night
- Foamy or bubbly urine
- More often urination, with pale urine
- less often urination, with dark-colored urine
- Blood in urine
- Difficult urination
2. Swelling
If the kidneys do not work properly, they won’t remove the extra fluid of the body, which can lead to swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, face or hands. Unexpected & unusual swelling could be an indicator of failing kidneys.
3. Fatigue
Healthy Kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin or EPO which tells the body
to make red blood cells that carry oxygen. Damaged Kidneys make less EPO, so there
will be fewer red blood cells carrying oxygen. The muscles and brain become fatigued
quickly and easily.
Experiencing fatigue even when you seem to get enough sleep
at night is one symptom that the kidneys are not producing enough hormones for your
body.
4. Skin Rashes
If the kidneys aren’t effectively removing waste from the bloodstream, the build-up can cause severe itching or a skin rash. Waste accumulates in the blood, causing skin to become dry and irritated. Creams or ointments may help the problem on the surface, but if your rash is linked to kidney damage, putting cream on your rash won’t fix the underlying issue.
5. Metallic or Bad Taste in the Mouth
As waste accumulates in the blood, it can cause bad breath and even make your food taste different. If you notice a loss of appetite or a change in your food preferences, it could be a sign of kidney damage. It can even cause nausea and vomiting.
6. Shortness of Breath
Kidney damage can lead to shortness of breath in two ways. The extra fluid in the body can build up in the lungs, and/or the shortage of oxygen-carrying red blood cells can leave your body starved for oxygen.
7. Dizziness and Trouble Concentrating
Anemia related to kidney damage means that the brain isn’t getting the oxygen it needs. This can lead to memory loss, dizziness and trouble with concentration.
8. Body Pain
Some people who are suffering from kidney damage may experience pain in the upper back or on the same side as the damaged kidney. Kidney infections and kidney stones can cause severe pain, often in spasms.
