Introduction
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term and progressive condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to function properly. It is estimated that approximately 37 million Americans have CKD, with many more people remaining undiagnosed. Early detection and treatment are essential for preventing further kidney damage and reducing the risk of complications. CKD is often referred to as a “silent killer” because it may not cause any noticeable symptoms until the disease has progressed to a later stage. However, there are several symptoms that may indicate the presence of CKD. In this article, we will discuss the most common symptoms of CKD and how they can be managed.
- Fatigue Fatigue is a common symptom of CKD, and it is often one of the first symptoms to develop. As the kidneys become less able to remove waste and excess fluids from the body, toxins can build up, causing feelings of tiredness and weakness. Additionally, anemia, a condition in which the body does not produce enough red blood cells, is a common complication of CKD, which can also contribute to fatigue.
- Swelling Swelling, or edema, is another common symptom of CKD. Swelling typically occurs in the legs, ankles, and feet, but it can also affect other parts of the body, such as the face and hands. Swelling occurs when the kidneys are no longer able to remove excess fluids from the body, causing fluid to build up in the tissues.
- Urinary changes Changes in urination are often an early sign of CKD. These changes may include:
- Urinating more or less frequently than usual
- Difficulty urinating
- Pain or burning during urination
- Blood in the urine
- Foamy or bubbly urine
- High blood pressure: High blood pressure is a common complication of CKD. The kidneys play a vital role in regulating blood pressure, and when they are not functioning properly, blood pressure can rise. High blood pressure can further damage the kidneys, leading to a vicious cycle of declining kidney function.
- Loss of appetite and weight loss: As CKD progresses, many people experience a loss of appetite and weight loss. This is due to a combination of factors, including nausea and vomiting, changes in taste and smell, and a buildup of toxins in the body. In some cases, people with CKD may also experience muscle wasting, which can contribute to weight loss.
- Skin problems: CKD can cause a variety of skin problems, including itching, dry skin, and bruising. These symptoms are often the result of a buildup of waste products in the body, which can irritate the skin and cause damage to blood vessels.
- Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath is a common symptom of CKD, particularly in later stages of the disease. This is because fluid can build up in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. Additionally, anemia can also contribute to shortness of breath by reducing the amount of oxygen that the body can transport.
- Nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of CKD, particularly in later stages of the disease. These symptoms are often caused by a buildup of toxins in the body, which can irritate the stomach lining and cause feelings of nausea. Additionally, changes in the body’s electrolyte balance can also contribute to nausea and vomiting.
- Difficulty concentrating and confusion: As CKD progresses, many people experience difficulty concentrating and confusion. These symptoms are often the result of a buildup of toxins in the body, which can affect brain function. Additionally, anemia can also contribute to difficulty concentrating by reducing the amount of oxygen that the brain receives.