8 Symptoms That Warn Us Of A Kidney Malfunction
The kidneys are the organs that are responsible for detoxifying our body through urine and, among other things, they also have the function of balancing the levels of sodium, calcium and other substances important for our health. A kidney malfunction is, of course, of concern.
They are located under the ribcage and are estimated to eliminate toxins around 120-125 liters of blood per day.
However, sometimes the body retains too much residue and prevents the kidneys from performing their tasks optimally.
As a result, important processes in the organism are altered and diseases can occur that reduce one’s quality of life.
More worryingly, it is very difficult to spot a kidney problem right away, and the more time passes, the more complicated it is to treat it.
Following this, it is essential to know how kidney problems manifest themselves and when to suspect a disease of these organs.
Below we present 8 main symptoms to easily identify a kidney malfunction.
1. Changes in urine
Changes in urination habits, as well as changes in urine composition, are early symptoms of a kidney problem.
Since these organs are in charge of producing urine, it is normal for this to present some noticeable changes in case the kidneys are not working properly.
For example, it may increase the need to go to the bathroom at night or fail to hold urine during the day.
It is also common for it to be more yellow than usual, almost orange, and to have a stronger, more unpleasant smell.
2. Edema or inflammation
Water retention (or edema) can be the result of the kidneys having difficulty performing their functions properly.
The inflammatory processes in the body are not balanced and fluids remain in the tissues.
Inflammation can be seen in areas of the body such as:
- Feet.
- Legs.
- Ankles.
- Face.
- Hands.
- Abdomen.
3. Acne
Toxins that remain in the bloodstream due to kidney failure can promote the appearance of acne.
They are transported to the pores and sometimes alter the normal production of oils.
As a result, unsightly pimples and an itchy sensation appear that can even be unbearable.
Acne can be controlled through topical treatments, but when it depends on an intoxicated body, it is necessary to help it disappear by purifying the kidneys.
4. Pain in the lower back
Pain in the lower back or one of the ribs may indicate the onset of kidney disease.
While it’s easy to confuse this symptom with common muscle pain, care should be taken as it could indicate polycystic kidney disease, stones, or liver disease.
5. Nausea and vomiting
Although these symptoms can occur as a result of multiple factors, it should be known that they can also depend on a kidney disease, especially if they are accompanied by other disorders.
In this case, nausea and vomiting occur because the residues are not eliminated in their entirety and prevent the proper functioning of the body systems.
6. Dry skin indicates a malfunction of the kidneys
As kidney disease progresses, the body becomes dehydrated and reduces its ability to use fluids properly.
As a result, the skin loses its natural hydration and becomes drier over time.
7. Dizziness
Some patients suffering from kidney failure and kidney infections may have anemia that should be checked as soon as possible.
It is important to consult your doctor if you suffer from constant dizziness, a feeling of instability and fatigue.
This symptom is due to a lower production of red blood cells, so the brain stops receiving the necessary amounts of oxygen.
8. Lack of appetite
A person who usually eats regularly and suddenly stops doing so should suspect the presence of some disease in their body.
While kidney problems aren’t the only ones that cause loss of appetite, this is something you should consider.
Sometimes kidney failure causes hiccups and, in turn, increases the feeling of satiety.
Important!
It is possible to counteract kidney malfunction if it is detected in its early stages.
Otherwise, severe hypertension, chronic water retention and infections occur.
Be alert for any of these symptoms and see a specialist if necessary.
