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Renal Insufficiency Symptoms

Renal insufficiency is a condition in which kidney function is compromised, thus interfering with the normal removal of waste products from the body. It is usually a chronic condition, sometimes referred to as chronic kidney failure. However, cases of acute renal insufficiency are sometimes seen as well. Whether chronic or acute, renal insufficiency results in a potentially dangerous buildup of fluids and waste in the body.

  1. Normal Kidney Function

    • The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs, located just below the rib cage, one on either side of the spinal column. On an average day, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, these vital organs process 200 quarts of blood, filtering out about two quarts of waste products and excess water. These are processed into urine and sent to the bladder and then periodically expelled during urination.

    Acute Insufficiency Symptoms

    • This form of renal insufficiency comes on suddenly and may be caused by infection, trauma, major surgery, drugs, including prescription, over-the-counter and recreational medications; or some type of toxin that targets the kidneys. One of the earliest signs of this type of insufficiency is a sharp decrease in or total cessation of urination. Other symptoms include fluid retention, manifested by swelling in the ankles, legs and feet; mental confusion, bloody stools, fatigue, flank pain, hand tremor, high blood pressure, loss of sensation and/or appetite; and a metallic taste in the mouth. Treatment will vary depending on the cause of the insufficiency, but in extreme cases dialysis may be required.

    Early-Stage Chronic Symptoms

    • The early stages of chronic renal insufficiency often produce no notable symptoms, although urine tests usually will reveal abnormalities. In some cases, blood pressure may be elevated. Treatment of early-stage renal insufficiency usually is limited to dietary changes and high blood pressure medication if hypertension is present.

    Advanced Chronic Symptoms

    • As chronic renal insufficiency progresses, symptoms increase. According to the Foundation for IgA Nephropathy, they are likely to include anemia, headache, bruising, fatigue, muscle weakness and cramps; mental changes, thirst, nausea and vomiting; diarrhea, itchy skin, skin color changes, sexual disinterest and dysfunction; breathing difficulties, severe fluid retention and decreased urine output. As the symptoms worsen, dialysis eventually will be required.

    Symptoms in Children

    • The most noticeable early sign of renal insufficiency in children is a failure to attain normal growth landmarks in both height and weight. Although the primary function of kidneys is to filter out waste products, they also play a role in regulating key nutrients involved in the growth process. Renal dysfunction can lead to malnutrition, slow bone growth and difficulties in processing protein. Children with renal insufficiency receive the same treatment as adults, based on the stage of the disease.

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