The kidneys are small organs that play a crucial role in keeping the body healthy. They filter toxins from the blood, regulate water and salt levels, and help produce hormones. However, the kidneys can slowly deteriorate without showing any obvious symptoms at first. So, it’s important to be aware of the signs your body sends when your kidneys are in danger. In this article, we’ll go over 7 key signs of kidney problems, as well as how to prevent and treat them.
- Constant fatigue and exhaustion
If you feel constantly tired and exhausted even after getting enough rest, your kidneys may be suffering from a problem. The kidneys are responsible for producing the hormone erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood cells. When the kidneys are damaged, the production of this hormone decreases, leading to a decrease in the number of red blood cells, and thus a lack of oxygen in the body.
Weak physical performance.
Difficulty concentrating.
Feeling cold even in moderate temperatures.
- Swelling in the face, hands, and feet
When the kidneys are unable to get rid of excess fluid in the body, this leads to fluid accumulation and swelling. Swelling often appears in areas such as the face, hands, feet, and ankles.
A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the swollen areas.
Swelling increases during the day or after standing for long periods.
- Changes in urine
Urine is one of the main indicators of kidney health. You may notice changes in:
Urine color: It becomes dark, foamy, or contains blood.
Frequency of urination: Increased or decreased, especially at night.
Urine odor: Bad or strong smell.
These changes may be a sign of infections, kidney stones, or kidney damage.
- Back or lower abdominal pain
Persistent or severe pain in the back or sides may be the result of problems such as:
Kidney stones: It may cause severe pain when moving or urinating.
Kidney infections: It can cause pain accompanied by fever or chills.
Kidney enlargement due to fluid buildup.
- High blood pressure
The kidneys play a major role in regulating blood pressure by controlling the balance of fluids and salts. When the kidneys are damaged, blood pressure can rise due to the buildup of sodium and water in the body.
Chronic headaches.
Dizziness or ringing in the ears.
Shortness of breath.
- Itchy and dry skin
Healthy kidneys help remove waste and excess fluid from the body. When the kidneys are not working properly, toxins build up in the blood, leading to:
Constant itching, especially in certain areas.
Dry and flaky skin.
Change in skin color to become pale or yellowish.
- Nausea and loss of appetite
The buildup of toxins resulting from kidney failure can affect the digestive system, causing:
A constant feeling of nausea.
Loss of desire to eat.
A metallic taste in the mouth.
Significant weight loss.
Causes of Kidney Damage
To prevent these signs from appearing, it is important to know the causes of kidney damage, which include:
Excessive salt consumption: puts extra stress on the kidneys.
Excessive painkiller use: can lead to permanent kidney damage.
Lack of water intake: leads to the accumulation of toxins and difficulty in the filtration process.
Diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure: cause great stress on the kidneys.
Smoking and alcohol: directly affect kidney function.
How to maintain the health of your kidneys.
To protect your kidneys from damage, you can follow the following tips:
Drink enough water: helps flush out toxins.
Reduce salt intake: to maintain fluid balance in the body.
Avoid excessive protein intake: because it increases the burden on the kidneys.
Exercise regularly: to improve blood circulation and kidney health.
The kidneys play a pivotal role in the health of the body, and any neglect of their health can lead to serious problems. If you notice any of the above signs, do not hesitate to consult a doctor immediately. Early detection and rapid intervention can prevent kidney damage and ensure a healthy life. Maintain a healthy lifestyle and take care of your body to stay strong and healthy.
