Kidney diseases are quite common and are detected in about one in ten patients during routine checks. Nephrologist and general practitioner Mikhail Eliseev from SM-Clinic explains what symptoms, including subtle ones, can hint at kidney problems.
Many kidney issues begin with few or nonspecific signs. A definitive diagnosis often requires a thorough examination because early symptoms resemble those of other conditions. The most frequently observed kidney disorders include glomerular diseases, kidney amyloidosis, pyelonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, paraneoplastic processes, and stones in the urinary tract, as noted by Eliseev.
The doctor points out several less obvious signs that may accompany other illnesses as well. Shortness of breath and swelling that worsens with activity are common when fluids accumulate in the body. Edema can occur even at rest if fluid balance is disrupted. Many patients report it during exertion or when fluid shifts occur in the chest cavity.
Among additional indicators are dry skin and itching caused by disturbances in mineral metabolism, persistent weakness and fatigue, a metallic taste in the mouth signaling altered acid-base balance, and disturbed sleep patterns that can accompany reduced kidney function. Some patients may also experience sleep apnea linked to kidney issues.
Back pain near the kidneys is another telltale symptom, sometimes felt on one or both sides of the spine and occasionally radiating to the lower abdomen or groin. Dysuria, or painful and frequent urination with difficulty starting or finishing a stream, is also described as a common sign in many kidney conditions.
Changes in urine color provide another clue. Light or white urine can indicate conditions such as diabetes or diabetes insipidus, infections like cystitis or urethritis, or even acute and chronic kidney problems. Dark yellow urine suggests concentrated urine and possible liver involvement or bile acid buildup, while red urine may reflect bleeding within the urinary tract or certain kidney injuries. Milky urine can point to pus within the urinary tract, and brown urine might reflect muscle breakdown products or severe dehydration. A green tint could signal significant infection in the urinary tract, and a beer-like color has been associated with liver disease, certain toxins, or gallbladder issues, according to Eliseev.
Swelling in the limbs and face often accompanies kidney disease, arising from a reduced filtration rate of the kidneys which leads to water retention and increased tissue fluid. These signs, together with other symptoms, should prompt medical evaluation for kidney health.
Early detection and management play a crucial role in slowing the progression of kidney disease, especially in individuals with conditions such as diabetes or hypertension. Regular screening and a proactive approach to symptom monitoring are essential for maintaining kidney function over time. [Eliseev, SM-Clinic attribution]
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