Kidney Disease Signs

The kidneys rid the body of waste, filter out nasty toxins and keep the blood clean. Many people suffer from kidney disease without recognizing the signs, but proper treatment could keep the disease from getting worse and resulting in kidney failure.

Causes

• Kidney disease can be caused by diabetes, high blood pressure, an enlarged prostate, kidney stones, kidney cysts and infections, or exposure to certain toxins.

Signs and Symptoms

• The signs of kidney disease are urinary changes, puffy eyes, tiredness, leg pain, itching or rash, dizziness, a metallic taste, nausea and vomiting, shortness of breath, difficulty concentrating and swollen ankles, legs, feet or hands.

Diagnosis

• Kidney disease is diagnosed with ultrasound imaging, a CT scan, an MRI or kidney biopsy. A urinalysis tests for evidence of protein or blood in the urine, and blood tests measure abnormal levels of blood urea nitrogen and creatinine.

Treatment

• Blood pressure medications are used to treat, slow and reduce potential complications of kidney disease. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers are prescribed to keep kidneys functioning. A diet low in protein and salt is recommended.

Complications

• Complications of kidney disease include fluid retention, increase in potassium levels, weak bones, anemia, stomach ulcers, dry skin and cardiovascular disease.