10 warning signs your kidneys are failing; 8 things you can do to keep your organs healthy
Your kidneys are vital organs and they need to be taken care of.
Situated on each side of our spine, they filter your blood and eliminate
toxins from your body. Any changes to damage to your kidneys can cause
these amazing organs to fail. World Kidney Day (March 12), celebrated
each year on the second Thursday in March, aims to raise awareness of
the importance of kidney health and preventive behaviours to reduce the
risk of kidney disease.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) often has no signs or symptoms in the early stages. That’s why the majority of individuals with kidney disease tend to have symptoms in the later stages - when the kidneys are failing or when there are high levels of protein in the urine. Some people with kidney failure may experience a few symptoms.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) often has no signs or symptoms in the early stages. That’s why the majority of individuals with kidney disease tend to have symptoms in the later stages - when the kidneys are failing or when there are high levels of protein in the urine. Some people with kidney failure may experience a few symptoms.
What are the signs and symptoms of kidney failure?
Possible signs that indicate your kidneys are beginning to fail may include:- Too much or not enough urine
- Swelling of legs, ankles, feet
- Persistent nausea
- Vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Itching
- Fatigue
- Pain or pressure in your chest
- Confusion
- Unexplained shortness of breath
- Back pain
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Nosebleeds
- Diarrhoea
What causes kidney failure?
There are several causes or conditions that can lead to kidney failure - with diabetes and high blood pressure being the most common cause of kidney failure, also known as end-stage renal disease or ESRD. Other factors that put you at an increased risk of kidney failure are:- Heart disease or a heart attack
- A severe infection like sepsis
- Urinary tract problems
- Chemotherapy drugs that treat cancer and some autoimmune diseases
- Drug abuse
- Being overweight or obese
- Dehydration
- Kidney stones
- A family history of kidney disease
How to prevent kidney failure
There is a lot you can do to prevent or reduce your risk of kidney failure.- Eat a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables
- Reduce your intake of salt to avoid high blood pressure
- Exercise regularly
- Lose weight if you’re overweight
- Keep your blood sugar, lipids under control
- Do not smoke or quit smoking
- Take medications as directed by your doctor
- Get tested for kidney disease especially if you’re at risk