Pavlina Haralampieva
Our kidneys are very important. They are located just below the ribs and they filter 120-150 quarts of blood every day.
We need to take care of our kidneys because they keep the blood safe and they prevent a buildup of waste in the body. Moreover, our kidneys help the bones to stay strong and healthy, regulate blood pressure, produce red blood cells, and keep the levels of electrolytes stable.
If there is a kidney damage, the health of the affected individual can be in danger. That’s why we need to learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of kidney damage.
Symptoms:
Upper back pain
Upper back pain is one of the most common symptoms of damaged kidneys. It can be manifested as a one-sided pain in the upper back and sometimes it can be accompanied by urinary changes and fever. So, if you have spasms or severe pain, you could have a kidney infection or kidney stones.
Skin rash
One of the main reasons why kidney failure happens is because of the waste that builds up in the body. Sometimes it can cause rashes and itchy skin. When the kidneys cannot filter our blood, it will lead to our skin looking dry, irritated, and unhealthy. There are many creams and lotions that can ease this situation, but when it is caused by a problem with the kidneys, these creams and lotions cannot help. If you have these problems, seek an expert’s opinion.
Swelling
If you notice that there is a swell without any obvious reason, you should know that it may be caused by a kidney damage. Sometimes, the kidneys cannot remove the waste buildup, and it can be a reason for swelling in your hands, feet, legs, ankles, and face.
Metallic taste in the mouth
Metallic taste in the mouth is another sign of kidney problem. The deposits of waste in our blood can lead to bad breath and a changed taste in the mouth. Sometimes, people who have a kidney damage may have a poor appetite and they can also have a change in the taste of certain foods.
Fatigue
Healthy kidneys produce erythropoietin (EPO). It is a hormone that produces red blood cells. The red blood cells supply the brain with oxygen and when their numbers are lowered, a person can experience muscle damage and can also feel fatigued. In most of the cases, these signs are accompanied with anemia.
Shortness of breath
Those who suffer from kidney damage, their body is starved of oxygen. This lack of oxygen can lead to shortness of breath. This condition is caused by fluids in the lungs and the accumulation of waste products.
The most obvious signs of kidney damage:
- Pale color of the urine.
- Foamy urine
- Having troubles urinating
- Less frequent urinating
- Dark urine
- Urge to urinate during the night
- Pressure during urination
