Significant kidney dysfunction can affect overall well-being and, in advanced cases, contribute to difficulty concentrating, confusion, or changes in mental alertness.
Milder concentration problems, however, are much more commonly related to poor sleep, stress, anxiety, medications, dehydration, or other medical conditions.
Sudden confusion or a major change in mental status requires prompt medical attention.
14. Shortness of Breath
Kidney disease can contribute to shortness of breath in several ways.
Fluid buildup can affect the lungs, while kidney-related anemia can reduce the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity.
But shortness of breath has many potentially serious causes, including heart and lung disease.
New or severe difficulty breathing should be evaluated promptly, particularly if it occurs with chest pain or significant swelling.
15. High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is both a risk factor for kidney disease and a potential consequence of kidney damage.
Damaged kidneys may have difficulty regulating sodium, fluid balance, and hormones involved in blood pressure control.
The important point is that high blood pressure often produces no noticeable symptoms.
Regular blood-pressure checks are therefore much more useful than waiting until you feel something unusual.
16. Pain in the Side or Lower Back
Pain around the side of the back, particularly below the ribs, can sometimes occur with kidney stones or certain kidney infections.
Kidney-related pain may occur alongside:
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea
- Painful urination
- Blood in the urine
However, ordinary muscle or spinal problems are much more common causes of back pain.
Severe flank pain, especially with fever or blood in the urine, warrants medical attention.
17. Unexplained Weight Loss
Significant, unintentional weight loss can occur with advanced chronic illness, including severe kidney disease.