Symptoms of kidney failure may be vague at first, but they can be signs of a serious health problem. Symptoms can include sudden loss of weight, muscle weakness, fatigue, and headaches. If your kidneys stop working, you may have to undergo dialysis or a kidney transplant. The goal of treatment is to restore normal kidney function and prevent further complications.
Some of the most common causes of kidney failure are diabetes and high blood pressure. Symptoms may also be caused by glomerulonephritis or other conditions, like kidney stones or a urinary tract infection. Getting regular medical care is the best way to keep your kidneys working.
Chronic kidney disease is also a common cause of kidney failure. When your kidneys become damaged, you may have problems with electrolytes, fluid overload, and toxic waste products. If you have this condition, you will have to manage your diet and fluid intake. You may also need to see a nephrologist, a doctor specializing in kidney conditions. Your doctor will recommend changes to your diet, and you may have to modify your activity level. If your kidneys fail to filter waste, you may need dialysis.
When your kidneys fail, you may also experience a metallic odor in your breath. Your doctor may take a tissue sample and examine it under a microscope. This is called a kidney biopsy. Other tests may also be done to diagnose the cause of kidney failure. In some cases, blood cell counts and electrolyte levels may also be checked.
High blood pressure is the second most common cause of kidney failure. High blood pressure causes blood to flow through blood vessels with increased force. It can also lead to strokes and blindness. In some cases, kidney failure can be caused by blood clots. You may also develop kidney disease if you have been diagnosed with a cancer, or if you have had a stroke or other blood clot.
High blood sugar can also damage your kidneys. People with diabetes should watch their blood sugar levels and make sure they get regular checkups. You can also have kidney failure if you have high blood sugar for a long period of time.
Other causes of kidney failure include heart disease, prostate cancer, bladder cancer, and a ureter that is blocked from functioning properly. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.
The best way to prevent kidney failure is to make sure you eat a balanced diet, stay active, and get regular medical care. You may also want to drink alcohol in moderation. You can also try to avoid certain toxic substances, such as lead. You should also avoid consuming medications that can damage your kidneys. You should also avoid consuming excessive amounts of sodium and potassium.
If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, you may want to work with your doctor to control these conditions. The more you control your blood pressure, the less likely you are to experience progressive kidney damage.