Signs of Kidney Failure Discussed by Urologist

 A kidney is an essential body organ that has a crucial role in filtering the waste called urea from the blood. But, in some people, it starts creating complications and in some, it fails to perform its function efficiently. The failure of one or both kidneys is reversible. But before pursuing a kidney transplant, it is essential to learn about the cause and symptoms of this medical condition.

Regarding kidney failure also known as Renal failure, Dr. Niren Rao is a leading Kidney Doctor in Delhi. He talks about various aspects of kidney failure including signs along with effective treatment. By taking insights from a discussion with the doctor, this blog is going to detail the signs and symptoms of one or both kidney failure. It also discusses preventive measures and effective kidney failure treatment. So, consider going through the post.

Signs & Symptoms of Kidney Failure

In general, signs and symptoms of kidney failure are as mentioned below:

1. Fatigue: Feeling tired all the time, even after resting.

2. Swelling: Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet due to fluid retention.

3. Changes in Urination: This can include increased or decreased urination, blood in the urine, foamy urine, or frequent nighttime urination.

4. Difficulty Sleeping: People with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) may experience difficulty sleeping and restless legs syndrome.

5. Loss of Appetite: A reduced appetite and unintentional weight loss are common.

6. Muscle Cramps and Itching: CKD can lead to muscle cramps and severe itching.

7. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Elevated blood pressure is often a contributing factor to CKD.

8. Nausea and Vomiting: Persistent nausea and vomiting can occur.

9. Metallic Taste: Some people with CKD report a metallic taste in their mouths.

10. Bone Health Problems: Weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures can result from imbalances in minerals such as calcium and phosphorus.

11. Neuropathy: Nerve damage can lead to tingling, numbness, and weakness in the extremities.

The above-mentioned symptoms are also signs of other medical issues like low hemoglobin, stress, and anxiety. Therefore, it is essential to have a medical consultation with a qualified physician or a urologist who is a skilled kidney doctor.     

Kidney Failure Types

Nevertheless, kidney failure has various underlying causes. Based on the type of kidney failure these factors are classified into two main types. These are:  

1. Acute Kidney Failure (AKF)

Acute kidney failure is a sudden and often reversible condition. In such conditions,  kidneys lose their ability to function properly over a short period of time. Common causes of acute kidney failure include:

• Dehydration

• Severe Infections like sepsis 

• A sudden drop in blood pressure, which can occur due to trauma, surgery, or certain medications, can impair kidney function.

• Blockages in the urinary tract such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate

• Certain chemicals, or contrast agents used in medical imaging procedures, can harm the kidneys.

• Conditions like lupus and glomerulonephritis 

• Blood clots in the renal blood vessels 

• Conditions like rhabdomyolysis 

2. Chronic Kidney Failure (Chronic Kidney Disease or CKD): 

It is a long-term, progressive condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to function. The common causes of chronic kidney disease include:

• Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys.

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Chronic high blood pressure can strain the blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to kidney damage.

• Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the kidney's filtering units (glomeruli) can lead to chronic kidney damage.

• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): This genetic disorder causes fluid-filled cysts to form in the kidneys, gradually replacing healthy tissue.

• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): An autoimmune disease like lupus can damage the kidneys.

• Kidney Infections: Repeated kidney infections can lead to chronic kidney damage.

• Certain Medications: Prolonged use of certain medications, especially non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can harm the kidneys.

• Kidney Stones: Repeated kidney stone formation can cause kidney damage.

• Chronic Obstructive Urologic Conditions: Conditions that lead to chronic urinary tract obstructions can harm the kidneys over time.

Kidney Failure Treatment 

There are several kidney failure treatments provided by expert kidney specialists. Skilled specialists like the best kidney doctor in South Delhi, Dr. Niren Rao at Dr. Niren Rao’s Urology Practice offers a variety of kidney failure treatments. These treatments include medication, and lifestyle modification depending upon the type of failure, such as:

• Increase the water intake 

• Dietary Changes

• Dialysis

• Kidney Transplant

Kidney Transplant is the most effective treatment for kidney failure, especially for individuals with end-stage kidney disease. In this procedure, a healthy kidney from a living or deceased donor is transplanted into the recipient's body. It offers the potential for a better quality of life. 

Conclusion

A kidney is an essential body organ that in certain conditions and in some people fails to perform its work properly. Kidney failure is treatable using lifestyle changes and medications like dialysis and transplantation performed by a kidney doctor. 

One facing any symptoms that depict kidney failure or is facing kidney problems can consult Dr. Niren Rao a leading urology doctor in Delhi. Dr. Niren Rao’s Urology Practice addresses a variety of kidney-related issues and pertinent treatments including kidney transplants.

Read more: Kidney stones: Causes, symptoms, and Precautions