10 Warning Signs Your Kidneys Aren’t Functioning Properly

Health

6. RASHES OR ITCHING

The accumulation of uric acid and waste products may produce itchy red patches on the skin. As the root cause of the symptom extends below the surface of the skin, over-the-counter (OTC) medications and other treatments are ineffective. Should such skin problems persist, seek the advice of your family doctor or dermatologist.

7. HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

Kidneys also serve as regulators of blood pressure. When they’re not functioning properly, they can not control high blood pressure. The rapid influx of blood stretches the blood vessels, which may cause further damage by scarring blood vessels in and around the kidneys.

8. CHANGES IN COLOR

A healthy person who hydrates regularly will expel pale yellowish urine. Typically, urine coloration appears clearer the more water we consume. Dehydration, which can cause serious health complications, will produce urine of a dark yellow color. Brown, black, orange, pink, or red colored urine is highly abnormal and should be investigated by a doctor. Blood in the urine (hematuria) produces a red to pink-colored urine; which is a dangerous condition requiring immediate medical care.

9. URINE ODOR

Most people produce urine of a musky, almost ammonia-like scent. That said, urine odor is highly variable, and is dependent on one’s diet, activity levels, and environmental temperature. A malfunctioning kidney may produce a fishy, sweet smell – and may be indicative of an underlying medical condition such as diabetes or liver disease. Certain supplements may also produce this odor.

10. MISCELLANEOUS SYMPTOMS

The kidney, as with many other vital organs, can produce seemingly unrelated symptoms. Some symptoms reported by medical professionals upon the diagnosis of a kidney condition include confusion, headaches, fatigue, muscle cramps, seizure, and skin discoloration.

Kidney Health

Per kidney.org, here are the top ways to promote and maintain kidney health:

– regular physical activity
– lose weight, if you need to
– eat less fat
– keep your blood pressure, blood sugar, and blood fats under control
– stop smoking
– reduce stress

At-risk demographics for chronic kidney disease, according to kidney.org:

– the elderly
– diabetes patients
– those with high blood pressure (hypertension)
– having a family history of chronic kidney disease
– are of African American, Hispanic American, Asian, Pacific Islander, or American Indian descent.

Most kidney conditions can be treated successfully. Per kidneyfund.org, diabetes and high blood pressure are the first and second leading causes of kidney failure, respectively. Prevention, treatment, and monitoring of the two conditions are paramount.