The kidneys are crucial organs because they remove waste products from the blood, aid in the production of red blood cells, and control blood pressure. Kidney disease can cause many serious side effects, some of which can be fatal. Eventually, the effects of kidney failure and the loss of the organ’s ability to filter waste out of the body become apparent.
You should get a kidney function test if you experience any of the symptoms listed below.
1. Back Pain
Renal disease can cause a variety of symptoms, including back pain and pain localized to the side of the body opposite the affected kidney. Polycystic kidney disease is a genetic disorder that causes the development of large, fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys and, rarely, the liver. This condition can cause localized pain.
2. Your Mouth Has a Metallic taste
The flavor of food can change and you may notice that you have bad breath when you have uremia. Some people report a metallic flavor in their mouths after they have kidney problems. In addition to losing weight from not eating, they may also develop an unexpected aversion to meat.
3. Sleeplessness.
Lack of sleep, or insomnia, may be another indicator of renal failure. Among the many possible causes are chemical imbalances and electrolyte imbalances brought on by renal failure. A lack of sleep could be an indicator of kidney failure.
4. Ankle Swelling.
Those with renal failure are at increased risk for developing swelling in their lower extremities. An issue with the sodium filtration system could be to blame. If they also have kidney disease, they may be experiencing fluid retention. Ankles and legs may swell for a variety of reasons. Ankle swelling, however, is a warning sign of kidney failure and should prompt a trip to the doctor.
If you or someone you know is at risk for developing kidney disease and begins exhibiting any of the aforementioned symptoms, it is crucial to schedule an immediate visit with a doctor for blood and urine testing.
The level of creatinine in the blood is one indicator of how well the kidneys are working. When kidney function is compromised, the body has trouble flushing creatinine out of the blood.
Patients’ glomerular filtration rates are calculated after their creatinine levels are adjusted for age, gender, and race using a standard formula (GFR). The GFR is a comprehensive indicator of a person’s renal health.
