Millions of people worldwide suffer from kidney disease, a deadly illness that frequently goes undiagnosed until it is advanced.
Dr. Vassalotti, Chief Medical Officer of the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) in the U.S. said “There are a number of physical signs of kidney disease, yet, those with kidney disease tend not to experience symptoms until the very late stages.
The body produces signals to help stop the condition from getting worse, and early detection is crucial. Those signals, including:
• Dry and itchy skin: Your skin might become dry and itchy.
• Fatigue and difficulty concentrating: You might feel more tired than usual and have trouble focusing.
• Sleep disturbances: Kidney problems can disrupt sleep, increasing the risk of sleep apnea.
• Nausea and vomiting: You might feel sick to your stomach.
• Changes in urination: You might notice blood or foam in your urine, or experience changes in the frequency or amount of urine.
• Swelling: You might experience swelling, particularly in your legs, feet, or around your eyes. This occurs because damaged kidneys leak protein into the urine, leading to fluid retention.
• Muscle cramps: Imbalances caused by kidney dysfunction can lead to painful muscle cramps.
These symptoms arise because your kidneys are unable to effectively filter waste products from your blood, resulting in a buildup of toxins.
It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms, as early detection and treatment of kidney problems can help prevent serious complications.