Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Disease

Kidneys are a very important function in the body. They take care of the waste in your body. Kidneys break down the water and food in the body properly. It helps to clean your body and produce healthy urine. Kidney disease is when your kidneys stop being able to keep your potassium in your body from building up in your blood, and your kidneys are not able to stop your protein and blood from leaking into your urine. It just has problems removing the waste products from your body. There are many signs and symptoms of kidney disease.

Urine

The number one sign that you may have kidney damage is that something looks very wrong with your urine. Your urine may look tea colored because there is blood in it. You may feel like you have to urinate all the time. The biggest clue that you may have kidney disease is when your urine actually looks bubbly and foamy. Definitely get checked out with your doctor if your urine looks like this.

Swelling

Another sign of kidney disease is when certain parts of your body start to swell up. Check your legs for swelling. Also check your ankles for swelling if you suspect that you might have kidney disease. Until you have a chance to see the doctor, you may want to try a few things to help keep down the swelling. Cut down on your sodium intake, keep legs elevated, and try icing your legs and ankles for at least 20 minutes. Always check with your doctor first though to make sure this would help you in your condition.

Tired

You may experience severe tiredness if you have kidney disease. Some people become anemic when they have kidney disease. You may also feel confused about things. Try getting plenty of sleep at night. Go for a walk. Try to get your energy going even if you do not feel like it.

Not Hungry

You may find that you are suddenly not hungry anymore. You feel like you have no appetite, and you actually have to force yourself to eat. Since you are not hungry you may find that you are starting to lose weight. Loss of weight and appetite are both signs of kidney disease.

Other Symptoms

You may feel nausea when you have kidney disease. Try to take things that will help you with your upset stomach like ginger ale, non-salted saltines, and medications like Tums. You might find that you have really bad breath and a bad taste in your mouth. Try to brush your teeth more, and use mouthwash to help freshen your breath. Lastly, if you have really severe itchy skin you may have kidney disease. Always see your doctor right away if you suspect that you have kidney disease.

Source:
http://www.davita.com/kidney-disease/treatment/a/451