As highlighted by the International Society of Nephrology, over 850 million people globally are affected by some form of kidney disease. The rates of chronic kidney disease stand at about 10.4 percent for men and 11.8 percent for women. Our hurried lifestyles and poor eating habits appear to be worsening kidney health. So, understanding your kidney function is crucial, and if it’s not optimal, there are steps you can take to address it.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Nishchay B, a nephrologist from Apollo Clinic, discussed signs that could indicate your kidneys aren’t functioning well, the significance of kidney health, and symptoms tied to kidney failure.
What are the symptoms of kidney failure?
Dr. Nishchay noted that in the early stages of kidney disease, there might not be any noticeable symptoms. “The body often compensates for reduced kidney function, making it hard to detect issues at first. Kidney problems frequently come to light during routine blood or urine tests conducted for unrelated conditions. Symptoms usually don’t present until kidney function is significantly impaired, which is why early detection is so important,” he explained.
If caught early, the doctor mentioned that appropriate medications and continuous monitoring may prevent further progression. Some subtle signs to pay attention to include:
- Ongoing fatigue
- Poor appetite
- Swelling around the eyes
- Dry, itchy skin
- Variations in urination frequency.
“Since these symptoms can easily be brushed off, being aware is essential. Even in later stages, symptoms may remain quite vague,” he added. Some common indicators are:
• Weight loss and reduced appetite
• Swelling in ankles, feet, or hands due to fluid buildup
• Shortness of breath
• Exhaustion
• Presence of blood in urine
• Increased urination frequency, particularly at night
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
• Itchy skin
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea
• Headaches
Why is kidney health important?
Dr. Nishchay emphasized the vital functions of kidneys: “They are essential not only for filtering out waste and excess fluids from the bloodstream but also for maintaining blood pressure, balancing electrolytes, and producing hormones that are crucial for red blood cell generation.”
This content is intended for informational use only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor if you have questions regarding a medical condition.
