The kidneys, despite their small size, play a pivotal role in the functioning of the body by purifying and filtering toxins from the blood. It filters between 20 and 150 liters of blood per day, and produces only one to two liters of urine, which consists of waste and excess fluid. Alarming statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveal that one in 10 adults in the United States has chronic kidney disease (CKD), a number that is on the rise. The main challenge in detecting chronic kidney disease is its asymptomatic nature until advanced stages.
Patch identifies 10 warning signs that your kidneys may be “at risk”:
Urine changes: Seek medical attention if you notice foamy urine, difficulty urinating, dark urine, decreased urine volume, or frequent urination during the night.
Excessive swelling: Unexplained swelling, especially in the hands and feet, can indicate kidney problems.
Shortness of breath: Fluid accumulation in the lungs can make breathing difficult, which requires consulting a specialist doctor.
Skin rashes: Toxins expelled through skin pores may lead to skin problems such as rashes, dryness, irritation, or ulcers.
Metallic taste in the mouth: Kidney problems can appear as a metallic taste in the mouth, which indicates an excessive amount of toxins.
Poor concentration and dizziness: Decreased oxygen flow to the brain due to excess toxins can lead to poor concentration, dizziness, and cognitive fog.
Lower back pain: Kidney damage or failure is often associated with lower back pain due to the location of the kidneys in that area.
Fatigue: The kidneys produce EPO, a hormone that boosts the number of red blood cells to transport oxygen. Kidney injury can lead to a lack of oxygen, causing fatigue.
Nausea and vomiting: Toxins accumulated in the blood can cause nausea and vomiting, which emphasizes the need for prompt medical advice, especially with lower back pain.
Chills: Kidney-related problems that affect the production of red blood cells can lead to anemia, which is characterized by a constant feeling of coldness.
These signs act as critical indicators, prompting timely medical intervention to address potential kidney problems. Understanding these warnings enables individuals to prioritize kidney health and seek professional guidance when needed.
