Many people are currently living with a kidney problem, and unfortunately, most of them don’t know it. There are various physical symptoms of kidney diseases. But most of the time, people associate them with other health conditions.
Aside from that, people dealing with such a disease tend not to experience signs until the late phases when there is a large amount of protein in the urine or the kidneys are failing. In fact, this is one reason why only a few people with chronic kidney diseases know they have them.
While the only way to find out if you have a kidney disease is to get assessed by medical professionals, the following are the other signs you need to see a nephrologist.
- Frequent Kidney Stones
A kidney stone is either salt or mineral-based deposit in the kidneys. It will cause lots of pain, especially when passing through the urinary tract. When you have lots of kidney stones, your kidneys can’t properly filter and remove wastes and allowing deposits to accumulate.
On the other hand, you may have kidney stones starting to block a stage of the urination process known as glomerular filtration. It will also reduce the rate of filtration. Remember, any obstructions may start to damage the kidneys and result in severe kidney problems.
- Presence of Blood in Urine
Usually, healthy kidneys will keep the blood cells in the body when filtering out wastes from the blood in order to make urine. But when the filters of the kidneys have been damaged, such blood cells may begin to leak out into your urine. Aside from signaling kidney problems, the presence of blood in the urine may be a sign of kidney stones, infections, or tumors.
So, when you notice blood, don’t think twice and consult a medical expert within your local area. So, if you’re living in Florida in the city of Orlando, book an appointment right away for nephrologists in Orlando can help you.
- Your Skin Is Dry and Itchy
Kidneys are responsible for eliminating extra fluids and wastes from the body. This cleansing process helps in the production of red blood cells. It will also keep bones stronger. If you are dealing with itchy and dry skin, then it is time to see a nephrologist.
Dryness and itchiness may an indication of the bone and mineral disease that go with severe kidney diseases particularly when these important organs can’t keep the balance of minerals as well as nutrients in the blood.
- Fluctuations In Urination Habits
Another sign you need to see a doctor is when you notice that you are urinating recurrently or not at all. Aside from changes in your urination habits, your urine may look darker and frothy. Remember, even a small amount of blood may dramatically change the urine’s color.
- Feeling Tired
A severe reduction in kidney function may result in a buildup of toxins as well as impurities in your blood. This may cause people to feel weak and tired, and can make it harder to focus. Anemia is another impediment to kidney problems that cause fatigue and weaknesses.
- Foamy Urine
When you have bubbly or foamy urine, it means protein is present in your urine. Known as proteinuria, this happens for several causes, some are harmless while others may cause a damage to the kidney. Normally, urine consists of a small amount of protein waste, but it passes unnoticed. You will start to see bubbles or foam in urine when there is a high amount of protein in it. The moment you notice that you have foamy urine, make sure to consult a doctor right away to avoid complications.
- Food Tastes Like Metal
An accumulation of wastes in the blood known as uremia makes food tastes a bit different. In fact, it can also cause bad breath. On the other hand, when you notice that you stop eating meat or that you’re losing weight, then it is the perfect time to see a nephrologist.
- High Blood Pressure
A kidney problem is one of the causes of hypertension. Your kidneys manage how much salt should stay in the circulation. If your kidneys are unable to do that the salt will stay in your blood and increase blood pressure. Also, if the kidneys are damaged, they may activate the production of hormones that result in high blood pressure.
Final Say
If you’re experiencing any of the above-mentioned signs, don’t think twice and book an appointment with a reliable nephrologist.
When you’re choosing a nephrologist, it’s highly recommended that you opt for one who is licensed, experienced, and skilled to avoid any problem. Please note that you don’t choose such a nephrologist, you may end up worsening your condition and spending a considerable amount of money.
