The symptoms of kidney failure manifest in patients who have a progressive deterioration of kidney function. Chronic kidney failure, also known as chronic kidney disease, occurs when the kidneys can no longer properly filter excess waste and substances from the blood. This can lead to the accumulation of harmful substances in the body, causing a range of symptoms and complications.
Symptoms of Kidney Failure Can be Subtle
The symptoms of kidney failure are often subtle and nonspecific. They manifest when kidney function is severely impaired. Symptoms may include:
- increased need to urinate, even at night
- increased blood pressure
- difficulty concentrating
- swelling in the legs
- swelling in the feet
- lack of energy
- nausea
- loss of appetite
- blood in the urine
- foamy urine
- vomiting
Causes of Kidney Failure
The causes of kidney failure can be varied and linked to different triggering issues. These include:
- diabetes
- recurrent urinary infections
- hypertension
- autoimmune diseases
- inflammatory kidney diseases
- prolonged use of kidney-damaging medications
- All these causes can result in chronic kidney failure and its progression to more advanced stages, eventually requiring replacement therapy such as dialysis or transplantation.
How to Treat Kidney Failure
The treatment of kidney failure depends on the severity of the disease and its underlying causes. There are no specific medications, but drugs may be necessary to control blood pressure, reduce inflammation, lessen the workload on the kidneys, and manage symptoms, along with strict diabetes control. Various interventions can slow the progression of kidney disease and delay the need for dialysis. It is important for patients with kidney failure to work closely with their doctors to develop an individualized treatment plan and manage their long-term kidney health.
Guidelines to Follow in Kidney Failure
Natural remedies, in the case of kidney failure, cannot replace traditional medical intervention. Medical treatment is essential to prevent the failure from becoming severe enough to be fatal. Prevention of kidney diseases can be achieved through virtuous behaviors that protect kidney health:
- Adequate hydration, meaning drinking plenty of water. Maintaining adequate hydration helps reduce the burden on the kidneys and supports their function.
- Limit sodium intake. A diet high in salt can increase blood pressure and cause kidney damage, progressively leading to kidney failure. Reducing the intake of salty foods can help keep blood pressure under control.
- Eat healthy foods. A balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help maintain kidney health.
- Limit protein intake. Excessive protein intake can increase the burden on the kidneys. Limiting the intake of meat, fish, and dairy products can help reduce the load on the kidneys.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking. Alcohol and smoking can damage the kidneys and worsen kidney failure.
- Engage in regular physical activity. Regular exercise can help keep blood pressure under control and improve overall health.
It is always essential to consult a doctor to establish the appropriate treatment for kidney failure. Only a specialist can determine if these measures are suitable for your specific case.
At Nefrocenter, nephrology consultations are available to assess kidney health.
Visit the page dedicated to our centers, click here.
Additionally, all required tests can be performed at NefrocenterLab and Nefrocenter Diagnostics.