Managing high creatinine levels: causes, symptoms, and management
Kidney problems can affect anyone at any age. Understanding kidney health, from kidney damage symptoms to kidney dialysis, is important for patients and healthcare professionals.
Kidney Specialists – The Guardians of Kidney Health
A kidney specialist's expertise is invaluable when kidney problems occur. Medical doctors, also known as kidney specialists or nephrologists, have received extensive training to diagnose and treat kidney diseases. These kidney specialists are vital in providing the best care for patients and managing kidney issues.
Identification of Kidney Damage Symptoms
Recognizing kidney disease symptoms and signs is the first step to managing kidney problems. Early detection allows for prompt intervention, which can prevent further kidney damage. Some common kidney damage symptoms include:
Changes in Urination Patterns: Alterations in urination are one of the first signs of kidney disease. This can be manifested as an increased or decreased output of urine, frequent urination, or blood in urine.
Swelling: Kidney failure can cause fluid retention and swelling of the ankles, legs, or face.
Kidneys filter toxins and waste from the blood. These substances can accumulate in the body when they do not function properly. This causes fatigue and weakness.
High Blood Pressure: Kidneys are crucial in controlling blood pressure. Hypertension can be caused by kidney problems, and this can cause further damage to the kidneys.
Some people with kidney disease may feel pain in the lower spine near the kidneys. The pain can be mild or severe.
Acute Kidney Injury: A Sudden Threat
Acute kidney injury is a sudden, severe condition. It can be caused by many factors, including medications, infections, and dehydration. It is important to distinguish between chronic kidney disease and AKI as their treatment methods differ.
AKI is a sudden, severe decline in kidney function. It requires immediate medical care. AKI symptoms include reduced urine output, swelling.