Kidney failure is an extremely serious kidney problem. Without treatment, it may be fatal. Once kidney failure has occurred, you either need kidney dialysis for the rest of your life, or a kidney transplant operation.
Symptoms of kidney failure are rarely obvious or easily identifiable before the disease has progressed to the later stages.
Symptoms tend to appear first in the body’s chemistry as problems arise in regulating electrolyte balances. The kidneys become less efficient at eliminating water and clearing toxins, which are two of the kidneys’ major roles.
Another important function of the kidneys is to aid in the production of red blood cells. As impairment increases, fewer red blood cells are produced.
Even if your kidneys are 80 percent impaired, they can still function and keep you alive. But the longer you wait, the more likely you are to experience these symptoms of kidney failure:
* lethargy,
* the feeling that you have little strength,
* difficulty breathing,
* swelling in different areas.
When kidney failure symptoms aren’t identified and treated, there can be serious health consequences. These include:
A lack of red blood cells – Red blood cells bring oxygen to tissues and organs. Without it, they can’t function efficiently, contributing to fatigue and weakness.
Failure to excrete potassium properly – When the kidneys do not filter out and dispose of potassium, there can be potentially fatal problems involving heart rhythm.
Metabolic acidosis – Your body doesn’t manufacture enough bicarbonate, causing higher levels of acidity in your system. This can alter enzyme and oxygen metabolism, leading to kidney failure.
Uremia – Urea is the major solid component of urine. It’s a waste product that results from the digestion of protein, and it’s filtered from the bloodstream by the kidneys. When urea begins to build up in your system, it can cause problems with your heart, brain and muscles. The following symptoms become more pronounced
* decreased appetite
* low energy levels and even extreme fatigue,
* decreased mental and cognitive abilities.
At this stage, kidney function has been so compromised that the patient may slip into a coma.
At this stage of kidney failure, your body has to fight off numerous challenges. Excess fluid builds up and causes increased blood pressure. The risk of congestive heart failure also rises dramatically. Breathing becomes extremely rapid as the body fights to get enough oxygen.
Medical intervention is critical at this point if the patient is to survive.
If you need additional information on topics related to this article, click on Kidney Failure: What Are the Symptoms?. George McKenzie is a retired TV anchor, medical reporter and radio talk show host. He has a special interest in kidney-related issues, and is a frequent contributor to Kidney Health and You, a resource website about kidney health and wellness.