2. Swelling and Edema
The kidneys are in charge of eliminating waste products and extra fluid from the body. When they are not functioning properly, fluid can build up, leading to swelling (edema) in various parts of the body. The most typical locations for this edema to occur are:
- Hands and Feet: Swollen extremities can make rings, shoes, or socks feel tight.
- Face: Puffiness around the eyes, especially in the morning, can be a telltale sign.
- Ankles and Legs: Persistent swelling in these areas can indicate that the kidneys are struggling to filter out waste effectively.
3. Fatigue and Weakness
Erythropoietin is a hormone that healthy kidneys manufacture and aid in the production of red blood cells. When kidney function is impaired, this hormone’s production decreases, leading to anemia. Symptoms of anemia include:
- Chronic Fatigue: Constantly feeling exhausted even after taking a break.
- General Weakness: A lack of strength and stamina that affects daily activities.
- Difficulty Concentrating: Reduced mental clarity and focus due to decreased oxygen delivery to the brain.
4. Shortness of Breath
When the kidneys fail to remove excess fluid, it can accumulate in the lungs, causing shortness of breath. This symptom can be mistaken for other conditions, such as heart or lung disease, but when combined with other signs, it can point to kidney issues. Shortness of breath can also occur due to anemia, which reduces the amount of oxygen-carrying red blood cells.
