2.7 Swelling (Edema)

When the body cannot eliminate excess waste and fluids, water retention occurs. This can lead to swelling in the legs, hands, and face.

Kidney failure may cause swelling in the limbs due to fluid retention.

2.8 Abnormal Urination

Kidney function directly affects urination. Warning signs include urinating more or less frequently than usual, changes in urine color or odor, or the presence of blood in the urine.

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3. Complications of Kidney Failure

If not detected and treated early, kidney failure can lead to serious complications, including:

• Severe anemia requiring blood transfusions

• Increased risk of cardiovascular and bone diseases

• Swelling in the limbs due to fluid retention

• Decreased libido

• High blood pressure

• Weakened immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections

• Elevated potassium levels in the blood (a dangerous, potentially life-threatening complication)

• Nervous system damage, leading to mood changes and irritability

• For pregnant women, kidney failure may cause serious complications for both mother and baby

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4. Effective Ways to Prevent Kidney Failure

The complications of kidney failure can be severe and life-threatening. Therefore, prevention is essential. The following measures can help reduce the risk:

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

• Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight and improve overall health.

• Monitor blood pressure regularly and keep it within a healthy range.

• Control blood sugar, uric acid, and cholesterol levels.

• Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and other stimulants.

Daily exercise can significantly reduce the risk of kidney failure.

Follow a Balanced Diet

• Reduce salt, protein, and fatty foods in your daily meals.

• Increase your intake of vegetables and fruits.

• Drink approximately 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day.

Regular Medical Checkups

Visit your doctor every six months for routine checkups, or seek medical attention immediately if you notice signs of declining kidney function to ensure timely treatment.

1. What Is Kidney Failure?

The kidneys play a vital role in maintaining human life. Therefore, when their function is impaired, overall health can be significantly affected. One serious condition that everyone should be aware of is kidney failure.

Kidney failure can be life-threatening.

Kidney failure occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to function properly. As a result, waste products are no longer effectively filtered from the blood and begin to accumulate in the body. Kidney failure is classified into two main types:

Chronic kidney failure (chronic kidney disease):
The decline in kidney function occurs gradually over a long period of time and is often irreversible. Patients need to recognize the early signs of kidney failure in order to prevent serious complications.

Acute kidney failure (acute kidney injury):
Kidney function declines rapidly, often within just a few days. Immediate treatment is required, depending on the severity of the condition, and may include dialysis.

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2. 8 Early Signs of Kidney Failure

Early detection plays an important role in treatment outcomes and recovery. Below are eight possible early signs of kidney failure:

2.1 Loud and Persistent Snoring

People with chronic kidney disease often experience sleep apnea, a sleep disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during the night. Although each pause may last only a few seconds to a minute, it is typically followed by loud and prolonged snoring.

2.2 Fatigue and Weakness

Most patients with chronic kidney disease develop anemia. When kidney function declines to about 20–50% of normal capacity, the body may not produce enough red blood cells. If you feel constantly tired and sluggish despite getting enough rest and sleep, it could be an early sign of kidney failure.

2.3 Skin Rash and Itching

When the kidneys are not functioning properly, waste products build up in the blood. This accumulation can cause skin rashes and persistent itching. These skin symptoms should not be ignored.

2.4 Back Pain

Pain in the lower back that radiates toward the front of the hips or pelvic area may be an early warning sign of kidney problems.

Back pain can be an early warning sign of kidney failure.

2.5 Shortness of Breath

Kidney failure prevents proper waste removal and affects red blood cell production. This can lead to fluid retention and reduced lung function. In addition, a decrease in red blood cells makes oxygen transport more difficult, causing shortness of breath.

2.6 Bad Breath

When waste products accumulate in the bloodstream, they can cause bad breath. Patients may also notice a metallic taste in the mouth. This symptom is often mistaken for dental problems.