Health Desk. Kidney is one of the most important organs of the body. It helps in removing waste products and excess water from the blood and maintaining the balance of fluids and many essential elements in the body. Due to gradual decline in kidney function, sometimes obvious symptoms are not visible in the beginning. However, there are some changes that, if persistently felt, may require investigation.
1. Change in urination pattern
Frequent urination, waking up several times at night, unusual change in the amount of urine or seeing foam in the urine can be a sign of kidney related problems. If blood is seen in urine, it should not be ignored at all.
2. Swelling on legs and face
Kidneys help remove excess water and salt from the body. Fluid may accumulate in the body if its functionality is affected. In such a situation, swelling may be seen especially around the feet, ankles or eyes.
3. Constant fatigue and weakness
Feeling tired all the time even without much effort can be related to kidney problems. As kidney disease progresses, one may feel weakness due to problems like accumulation of waste materials in the body and anemia.
4. Loss of appetite or nausea
If kidney function is significantly affected, waste products may increase in the body. This may affect appetite and some people may experience problems like nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite.
5. Itching and dryness of the skin
Itching or excessive dryness of the skin for a long time without any apparent reason can also be seen in serious kidney problems. However, there can be many other reasons behind this.
When should the test be done?
The presence of any one of these symptoms in itself is not evidence of kidney failure. But if the symptoms persist, increase or multiple signs appear simultaneously, it is better to consult a doctor. Tests such as blood pressure, blood sugar, serum creatinine and urine tests can help determine kidney condition.