Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease
Symptoms of chronic kidney disease often do not appear until the disease is advanced. For this reason, chronic kidney disease is sometimes referred to as a “silent killer.” By the time symptoms emerge, significant damage may already have occurred. Knowing the symptoms enables early detection, which is key to slowing disease progression.
1. Fatigue and Tiredness
As kidney function declines, waste builds up in the blood, making people feel weak and tired. Anaemia caused by decreased erythropoietin production further exacerbates fatigue, making even routine activities challenging.
2. Changes in Urination | Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease
Changes may include increased urination at night (nocturia), foamy or bubbly urine (indicating protein), reduced urine output, or visible blood. These symptoms reflect the kidneys’ impaired filtering capacity and may be among the earliest signs noticed.
3. Oedema (Swelling)
Sodium and fluid retention cause swelling in the legs, ankles, hands, and face. This is due to the kidneys’ reduced ability to remove excess salt and water. In severe cases, fluid may accumulate in the lungs, causing breathlessness.
4. High Blood Pressure
As kidneys regulate blood pressure through salt and fluid balance and hormone release, dysfunction often results in hypertension. This becomes both a symptom and a contributor to further kidney damage.
5. Skin Issues
Dry, itchy skin may occur due to mineral imbalances or toxin accumulation. In advanced CKD, calcium and phosphate dysregulation can lead to severe itching and skin discolouration.
6. Nausea and Appetite Loss
The build-up of urea and other toxins leads to gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and a metallic taste in the mouth. These contribute to weight loss and malnutrition.
7. Cognitive Changes | Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease
Toxin build-up can affect brain function, causing poor concentration, memory lapses, and sleep disturbances. These are common but often overlooked symptoms.
8. Muscle Cramps
Electrolyte imbalances, especially low calcium and high phosphorus, lead to cramps, particularly at night. These are not only painful but also indicate worsening kidney function.
Because these symptoms can resemble other health issues, CKD is frequently underdiagnosed. Routine screening, especially in people with diabetes or hypertension, is essential. Recognising the symptoms of chronic kidney disease early improves treatment outcomes and can delay the need for dialysis or transplantation.
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