Early Signs of Kidney Failure: All You Need to Know

Kidneys are among the most important organs in the human body. They filter waste and excess fluids from the blood, regulate blood pressure, and maintain electrolyte balance. Certain conditions and diseases may inhibit proper kidney functioning, leading to serious health concerns. According to research, chronic kidney disease affects 1 in 7 adults in the United States. However, recognizing the early signs of kidney failure will help us remain proactive and prevent potential damage to this organ. 

Let us discuss all aspects of kidney disease to encourage timely medical intervention and better outcomes.

What Is a Kidney Failure?

Kidney failure happens when one or both of the kidneys lose their ability to function properly, accumulating harmful wastes and fluids in the body. There are two primary kinds of kidney failure:

• Acute kidney injury (AKI): A sudden loss of kidney function, often due to severe dehydration, infection, or blockage in the urinary tract. AKI can be reversible with prompt treatment.
• Chronic kidney disease (CKD): A gradual decline in kidney function over time, usually caused by long-term conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. CKD can progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Depending on the specific condition and potential cause, there are a few stages before kidney failure.

Stages of Kidney Disease

Kidney disease progresses through five stages, each indicating a further decline in kidney function. Early stages may show no symptoms, making regular checkups crucial for at-risk individuals. Later stages exhibit more severe symptoms and complications, with stage 5 being end-stage renal disease. Each stage depends upon your estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which defines how well your kidneys work. Let us see this in the following table:

Symptoms of Kidney Disease

There are some common signs which may indicate early symptoms of kidney failure. These symptoms may differ depending on the stage of kidney disease. Whether acute or chronic, recognizing these symptoms is essential. Early signs can be:

• Fatigue and weakness: Decreased kidney function can lead to anemia and fatigue.
• Loss of appetite: Waste buildup in kidneys can cause nausea and a lack of appetite.
• Difficulty sleeping: Accumulated toxins in the blood can lead to restless nights and insomnia.
• Changes in urination: Increased or decreased frequency, foamy urine, or blood in urine.

Besides these signs, a later-stage kidney problem can manifest as major symptoms that include the following:

• Nausea and vomiting: Accumulation of toxins can irritate the gastrointestinal tract.
• Swelling (edema): Excess fluid can cause swelling in the ankles, feet, and hands.
• Shortness of breath: Fluid buildup in the lungs can lead to difficulty breathing.
• Confusion: Electrolyte imbalances and toxin buildup can affect brain function.
• Neurological problems: In severe cases, advanced kidney failure can lead to seizures or coma.

Causes of Kidney Failure

Kidney failure is not an immediate effect of kidney disease. Various factors can lead to kidney failure, from chronic diseases to acute conditions and external influences. The common ones can be:

• Diabetes: High blood sugar levels may damage kidney filters over time.
• High blood pressure: Increased blood pressure may harm the blood vessels in the kidney.
• Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the kidney's filtering units.
• Polycystic kidney disease: A genetic disorder causing cysts in the kidneys.
• Recurrent UTIs: Persistent infections can lead to kidney damage.

In rare cases, the following causes can lead to likely damage and kidney failure:

• Autoimmune diseases: Some renal autoimmune conditions or lupus can lead to kidney damage.
• Certain medications: Many antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs could harm your kidneys.
• Kidney stones: Kidney stones may lead to kidney-related concerns if left untreated.

How to Diagnose Kidney Disease?

Kidney disease diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and specialized tests. These tests help in getting immediate attention for specific conditions. They may include:

• Blood tests: Measuring levels of waste products like creatinine and urea.
• Urine tests: Checking for protein or blood in the urine.
• Imaging tests: Ultrasound or CT scans to visualize kidney structure.
• Biopsy: A small sample of kidney tissue is examined for damage.

Early detection is key to finding an appropriate kidney disease treatment and improving the impact on individuals at risk of severe kidney disease.

Treatment Options to Prevent Kidney Failure

Treatment options for kidney failure include medications to manage symptoms and underlying conditions, lifestyle changes such as dietary adjustments and exercise, and dialysis in more severe cases:

• Treating underlying conditions: Diabetes or high blood pressure must be managed to prevent kidney damage.
• Managing complications: Kidney disease can lead to complications like high BP, anemia, and bone fractures. These problems can be controlled through medications.
• Lifestyle changes: Following a healthier lifestyle, avoiding drinking and smoking, and regular workouts can help keep your kidneys healthier.
• Dialysis: In the case of end-stage kidney disease, dialysis serves as an artificial filtration process, removing waste products and excess fluids from the blood.
• Transplant: A kidney transplant involves surgically implanting a healthy kidney from a donor, who can be either deceased or living.  Life-long medications might be needed to prevent rejection of the new kidney and eliminate the need for dialysis.

When to See a Doctor?

Early detection of kidney problems is essential. Regular checkups, especially for those with risk factors like diabetes or high blood pressure, can help detect early signs of kidney failure. Consult a doctor if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above.

Preventing Kidney Failure: Recognizing the Early Signs

Kidney health is essential for overall well-being, and early detection of kidney problems can assist in the timely diagnosis and proper treatment of any underlying concern. By understanding the early signs of kidney failure and seeking prompt medical attention, individuals can manage their condition and maintain a good quality of life.

Accurate Diagnosis and Effective Treatment of Kidney Diseases at North Atlanta Vascular Clinic

At North Atlanta Vascular Clinic, our experts accurately diagnose and treat various vascular conditions, including end-stage kidney disease. Our experienced professionals offer comprehensive plans and specialized care to help you fight infections or diseases that may harm your kidneys. Book an appointment today, and let us guide you to a healthier lifestyle.