In addition to changes in urine, signs such as fatigue, itchy skin, difficulty sleeping, and swollen eyes and ankles can warn of declining kidney function.
Early stages of chronic kidney disease have few symptoms. The patient may not realize it until the condition becomes severe. Treatment for kidney disease focuses on slowing the progression of kidney damage, often by controlling the cause. Chronic kidney disease can progress to end-stage kidney failure, which is life-threatening. Recognizing early signs is important for effective treatment and avoiding long-term complications.
Lack of energy or difficulty concentrating
Fatigue, lack of energy or difficulty concentrating can be warning signs of kidney disease. Significantly reduced kidney function can lead to the accumulation of toxins and impurities in the blood, causing fatigue and lethargy. According to the US National Kidney Foundation, kidney disease can also lead to another complication, anemia, making the patient tired and exhausted.
Dry and itchy skin
Dry and itchy skin is often caused by lack of moisture or skin disease. However, this can also be a warning sign from the kidneys. The kidneys are responsible for removing waste and excess fluid from the body, helping produce red blood cells, keeping bones strong and maintaining essential minerals in the blood. Therefore, if this balance is disrupted, it can manifest as dry, itchy skin.
Difficulty sleeping
Sleep problems should not usually be ignored, as they also warn of kidney disease. When the kidneys do not filter properly, toxins stay in the blood instead of being eliminated through urine, disrupting sleep. In addition, poor sleep quality and insomnia are very common in people with end-stage chronic kidney disease. If your sleep problems persist, see a doctor soon to find out the cause.
Swelling around the eyes
If this sign persists, it can warn that the kidneys are not working normally. Swelling around the eyes occurs because the kidneys release large amounts of protein into the urine (proteinuria), instead of retaining it in the body. This sign is often overlooked and many people think it is due to poor sleep, fatigue, overhydration…
Swelling of the ankles and feet
Another sign that warns of kidney failure is swelling of the ankles and feet, called edema, which occurs because the body retains water. Impaired kidney function leads to sodium (salt) retention, causing fluid accumulation, especially in the lower extremities. Swelling in the lower extremities can also be a symptom of many chronic diseases such as heart disease, liver disease and chronic leg vein problems.