Uremia can contribute to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, reduced appetite, an unpleasant or metallic taste in the mouth, and changes in the way food tastes.
Some people may also notice that they no longer enjoy foods they previously liked.
These symptoms are nonspecific, however. Gastrointestinal disorders, infections, medications, and many other conditions can produce similar problems.
Persistent nausea or unexplained loss of appetite should be medically assessed rather than automatically attributed to the kidneys.
5. Trouble Concentrating or Feeling Confused
Advanced kidney dysfunction can affect the body's chemical balance.
When waste products accumulate and electrolyte or fluid levels become abnormal, some people may experience:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Problems with memory
- Increased drowsiness
- Confusion
- Trouble staying alert
These symptoms can have many causes, including dehydration, medication effects, infections, metabolic disorders, and neurological conditions.
Sudden confusion or a significant change in alertness requires prompt medical attention, particularly in older adults or people who already have kidney disease.
6. Muscle Cramps or Weakness
The kidneys help maintain appropriate levels of minerals and electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphate.
When kidney function is significantly impaired, these balances can become abnormal.
As a result, some people with advanced kidney disease may experience muscle cramps, weakness, twitching, or restless sensations in the legs.
But muscle cramps are extremely common and are often unrelated to kidney disease. Exercise, dehydration, medications, circulation problems, and other conditions can also cause them.
The important factor is whether symptoms are persistent, worsening, or occurring alongside other warning signs.
7. Persistent Itching or Very Dry Skin
Severe chronic kidney disease can sometimes cause persistent itching.
One possible reason is the buildup of waste products and changes in mineral and bone metabolism that occur as kidney function declines.
The itching may occur over large areas of the body and may not be explained by a visible rash.
However, dry skin, allergies, eczema, liver problems, medication reactions, and other conditions can also cause significant itching.
If itching becomes persistent without an obvious explanation, it is worth discussing with a healthcare professional.
8. Shortness of Breath or Difficulty Breathing
Shortness of breath can sometimes occur in advanced kidney disease for several reasons.
Fluid retention may cause excess fluid to accumulate in the lungs or elsewhere in the body. Severe anemia associated with chronic kidney disease can also contribute to breathlessness and reduced exercise tolerance.
But shortness of breath should never automatically be blamed on the kidneys.
Heart and lung conditions can cause the same symptom, and some causes require urgent treatment.