Signs That Show Your Kidneys Are Failing Gradually And What To Do About It

Kidneys play a vital role in keeping our body healthy by removing waste and excess fluid from our blood. They also help regulate blood pressure and produce essential hormones that help stimulate the production of red blood cells. However, when they start to fail, it can lead to serious health complications.

Here are some signs that show your kidney is gradually failing and what you need to do immediately according to healthline.

Urinary Changes: One of the earliest signs of kidney failure is a change in urinary habits. This can include frequent urination, especially at night, dark or foamy urine, or difficulty urinating. These changes occur because the kidneys are no longer filtering waste products from the body, leading to an increase in toxins in the bloodstream.

Swelling: Kidney failure can cause swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, face, and hands. This occurs because the kidneys are not able to remove excess fluids from the body, leading to a buildup of fluids in the tissues.

Fatigue and Weakness: As the kidneys start to fail, you may feel more tired and weak than usual. This occurs because the kidneys are not producing enough of the hormone erythropoietin, which helps the body make red blood cells. Without enough red blood cells, your body can't get enough oxygen, leading to fatigue and weakness.

Shortness of Breath: When kidneys fail, excess fluid can build up in the lungs, leading to shortness of breath. This can be especially noticeable when you lie down at night.

Nausea and Vomiting: Kidney failure can also cause nausea, vomiting, and a loss of appetite. This occurs because the kidneys are not filtering waste products from the body, leading to a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may perform tests to determine if your kidneys are failing and what is causing the problem.

Treatment for kidney failure depends on the cause and severity of the problem. In some cases, medication or lifestyle changes may be enough to improve kidney function. However, in more severe cases, dialysis or a kidney transplant may be necessary.

Prevention is key to avoiding kidney failure. Maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated can help keep your kidneys functioning properly. Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and quitting smoking can also help reduce your risk of kidney disease.