Symptoms for Kidney Diseases
Kidney disease can manifest with a variety of symptoms, which may vary depending on the stage and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:
- Swelling: Fluid retention can cause swelling in the ankles, feet, or legs.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak is common due to the kidneys’ decreased ability to filter waste.
- Changes in Urination: This might include frequent urination, especially at night, pain or burning during urination, or blood in the urine.
- Foamy Urine: This can indicate the presence of excess protein.
- Appetite Loss: Reduced appetite and nausea are possible due to a buildup of waste in the blood.
- Shortness of Breath: Fluid accumulation in the lungs or anemia can lead to breathing difficulties.
- Back Pain: Pain in the lower back or sides may occur, although it’s less specific and not always present.
- High Blood Pressure: The kidneys play a role in regulating blood pressure, and their impairment can lead to hypertension.
- Metallic Taste: A buildup of waste products can cause a bad taste in the mouth.
- Itchy Skin: Accumulation of waste products can lead to itching.
It’s important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Early detection can significantly improve the management of kidney disease.
Prof (Dr) D Mukherjee is an alumnus of the prestigious Armed Forces Medical College, Pune where he did his MBBS & MD (Medicine). Subsequently he went on to do his DM (Nephrology) from PGIMER Chandigarh, which is the foremost training institution for nephrology in India.