Who doesn’t understand the importance of having healthy kidneys? These are those body organs that literally need replacement in case of end-stage failure. That’s why everyone should be able to pick up the warning signs of kidney disease.
Kidney disease often progresses silently, without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, there are warning signs that can indicate a problem.
In this article, we will explore the feeling of kidney pain, the different types of kidney disease, and the crucial signs to be aware of.
Table of Contents
How Does the Kidney Pain Feel Like?
Kidney pain feels like a deep ache or pressure in the lower back, just below the ribcage, on one or both sides of the spine.
This discomfort may be constant or intermittent. It can range from mild to severe.
However! Not all kidney problems cause pain, and sometimes, the pain may radiate to the abdomen or groin, making it challenging to pinpoint as a kidney issue.
Suggested Read: What Does the Left Kidney Pain Tell You About Your Health?
What are the Types of Kidney Disease?
There are various types of kidney diseases, each with its causes, progression, and treatments.
Some common types include:
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
CKD is a long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to function effectively. It can result from conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or certain autoimmune diseases.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Acute kidney injury is a sudden and severe decrease in kidney function, often caused by dehydration, infections, or medication side effects.
It is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
Polycystic kidney disease is a genetic disorder that leads to the formation of fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys.
These cysts can enlarge and damage the kidneys over time.
Glomerulonephritis
This condition involves inflammation of tiny filters in the kidney called glomeruli. It can happen due to infections and autoimmune diseases. If prolonged, it can lead to kidney damage.
Doctor Recommendation: Dr. Muhammad Aamir is a qualified nephrologist based in Lahore. With experience spanning over 19 years, he is well-trained in treating all kinds of kidney diseases.
What are the Warning Signs of Kidney Disease?
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s discuss the warning signs of kidney disease.
Fatigue – Being Tired All the Time
Healthy kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin (EPO), which instructs the body to generate oxygen-carrying red blood cells.
As kidney function deteriorates, EPO production decreases. This results in fewer red blood cells to transport oxygen, leading to persistent fatigue and weakness. This condition is known as anemia. You can manage it with appropriate treatment.
Feeling Cold – Even in Warm Environments
Anemia caused by kidney dysfunction can cause you to feel cold constantly, even in a warm environment.
Reduced red blood cells mean less circulation of warm blood, leading to an overall feeling of coldness.
Shortness of Breath – After Minimal Effort
Shortness of breath can be due to kidney problems in two ways.
Firstly, excess fluid retained in the body due to kidney dysfunction can accumulate in the lungs, making breathing difficult.
Secondly, anemia, characterized by a shortage of oxygen-carrying red blood cells, can leave your body oxygen-deprived, resulting in breathlessness even with minimal exertion.
Feeling Faint, Dizzy, or Weak
Anemia associated with kidney failure can lead to inadequate oxygen supply to the brain. It causes feelings of lightheadedness, dizziness, or weakness.
Trouble Thinking Clearly
Reduced oxygen delivery to the brain due to anemia related to kidney failure can result in cognitive difficulties, including memory problems and trouble concentrating.
Feeling Very Itchy
The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the bloodstream.
When kidney function declines, the accumulation of these waste products in the blood can lead to severe itching, which can be extremely uncomfortable.
Swelling in Hands or Feet
Kidneys that are not functioning properly struggle to remove excess fluids from the body. This fluid buildup can lead to swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, and hands.
Swollen or Puffy Face
In cases of kidney dysfunction, the kidneys may not effectively eliminate extra fluid from the body, causing swelling, even in the face.
Food Tastes Like Metal
An accumulation of waste products in the blood, known as uremia, can alter the taste of food and result in unpleasant metallic tastes. It can also lead to a reduced appetite, weight loss, and a dislike for certain foods, particularly meat.
Ammonia Breath
Uremia, the buildup of waste products in the bloodstream, can lead to bad breath with an ammonia-like odor.
Upset Stomach, Nausea, Vomiting
Severe uremia, caused by the accumulation of waste products in the blood, can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
Loss of appetite may contribute to weight loss.
Frequent Urination, Pale Urine, and Urinary Difficulties
As kidney function declines, changes in urination patterns may occur.
You may find yourself urinating more frequently, with urine appearing paler than usual. Additionally, you may experience a sensation of pressure or difficulty when urinating.
Foamy or Bubbly Urine
Kidney dysfunction can lead to foamy or bubbly urine, often accompanied by an increased amount of protein in the urine.
Brown, Red, or Purple Urine
Changes in urine color can indicate kidney problems.
Dark-colored urine, often brown, red, or purple, is a sign of reduced kidney function. It could also indicate the presence of blood in the urine.
Pressure When Urinating
In cases of kidney disease, you may experience a sensation of pressure or difficulty when urinating. It can happen due to the impact of kidney dysfunction on urine production and excretion.
Suggested Read: Foods Good for the Kidney: What to Eat and What to Avoid for this Important Organ?
When to Consult a Nephrologist?
Don’t wait if you suspect warning signs of kidney disease or have risk factors. Your kidneys are vital, and early detection can make all the difference. Act today for a healthier tomorrow!
Take action now – consult a specialist to safeguard your kidney health and well-being.
Reach out to a qualified nephrologist via Healthwire today.
