Did you know that your kidneys silently perform a crucial role in maintaining your body’s health? As renowned nephrologist Dr. Emily Rodriguez emphasizes, “The kidneys are like the unsung heroes of our bodies, filtering waste and excess fluids to keep us in balance.” However, they might not always be as silent as we think.
We often tend to ignore the importance of our kidneys to our body. Barely do you hear of someone complaining of an aching kidney or something. We only hear of such complaints when things get fatal such as in the event of a failure or malfunction.
The main function of your kidney is to remove waste and extra fluid from your body.
In this article, we’ll explore five early warning signs that your kidneys may not be as happy as they should be. This is to help you make choices that will go a long way to benefit you. Here are Five (5) early warning signs your kidneys aren’t happy.
- Changes in Urination Patterns
According to Dr. Mark Thompson, a nephrologist with over 20 years of experience, alterations in urination patterns can be a red flag for kidney issues.
Frequent urination, especially at night, or conversely, decreased urination, may indicate underlying kidney problems,” It’s important that you pay attention to these changes and consult with a healthcare professional whenever there is such a change.
- Persistent Fatigue:
Persistent fatigue could be linked to kidney dysfunction. This is because our kidneys play a key role in producing erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production.
When kidneys are struggling, anaemia can occur, leading to fatigue.. If you find yourself unusually tired despite adequate rest, it’s wise to investigate the root cause.
- Swelling in the Ankles and Feet:
Have you noticed any swelling in your ankles and feet? This could be due to an issue with your kidney.
Dr. Michael Chen, a leading nephrologist, points out that kidney issues often manifest as swelling in the ankles and feet.
When kidneys are not effectively removing excess fluids, it can result in edema, particularly in the lower extremities. Ignoring persistent swelling could exacerbate kidney problems hence you should seek medical advice if you see these signs persistently.
- Unexplained High Blood Pressure:
Our kidneys help regulate blood pressure by managing fluid balance and releasing renin, an enzyme involved in blood pressure control. Kidney dysfunction can contribute to unexplained high blood pressure
Medical practitioners have long established the connection between kidney health and blood pressure.
- Changes in Appetite and Metallic Taste:
A persistent metallic taste in your mouth could indicate a problem with your kidney. The function of your kidney also affects your sense of taste and appetite.
A metallic taste in your mouth once in a while could be as a result of something else However if it is persistent then you should be on your way to the hospital for check-up.
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Our bodies are designed in such a way that anything that affects one part of it can be seen in another part of the body. Our kidneys are no exception. By paying attention to the changes we see in our bodies we could be preventing a whole a health related crises.