Early Symptoms of Kidney Disease

The National Kidney Foundation estimates that approximately 26 million Americans have been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease. Persons with diabetes and high blood pressure are at risk for developing this condition.

Function

• The function of the kidneys is to remove wastes and help maintain fluid balance in the body. The kidneys also have a role in maintaining normal blood pressure, bone health and the manufacturing of red blood cells.

Types

• The 5 stages of kidney disease are determined by the rate at which the kidneys filter wastes out of the blood; this is the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). A GFR of 90 or more is considered normal; if less than 15, kidney failure has occurred.

Identification

• In many cases, symptoms are not noticeable until the later stages of kidney disease. Symptoms which may occur: flank (lower back) pain, fatigue, changes in urination, swelling, itching, nausea and vomiting.

Effects

• As kidney disease progresses, other conditions, or complications, may occur: anemia, high blood pressure, bone disease and fluid imbalance.

Prevention/Solution

• The initial treatment involves controlling any primary cause of kidney disease. As kidney disease progresses, dialysis and/or kidney transplantation may be considered as treatment options.