In order for the body to function correctly, the kidneys need to work properly. There are two kidneys whose primary role is to remove waste products and excess fluid from the body through the urine. In addition, the kidneys maintain salt, potassium, calcium and acid balance. They also produce hormones that create red blood cells and regulate blood pressure. As with many medical conditions, the key to treating kidney failure is to catch the disease early on. Seeking medical attention during the early stages of kidney failure may help to prevent serious illness.
Changes in Urination
Diagnosing kidney failure in the early stages can be challenging, as in the initial stages there may be very few symptoms, or no symptoms at all. The Mayo Clinic states that because the symptoms tend to come on slowly, individuals may not seek medical attention until the disease progresses into later stages. To help catch this condition, it is important to be on the lookout for signs of fluid retention. Urine output may decrease or stop altogether. Decreased urination may or may not be accompanied by swelling or edema, especially in the feet and ankles. The eyes and face may become swollen or puffy as well.
Weight Loss and Nausea
According to the American Medical Association, in some cases kidney failure can come on abruptly. In other cases it can take years to develop. Kidney failure in the initial stages may produce very general symptoms that are not automatically associated with kidney failure. This includes unexplained weight loss, nausea and vomiting. Fatigue, headaches and insomnia may be other early warning signs.
Trouble Breathing
When the kidneys are not filtering properly, fluids can start to build up in the lungs and cause shortness of breath and trouble breathing, claims the National Institutes of Health. The individual may also experience a general sense of feeling weak or not having the normal amount of energy. A lack of energy is due to red blood cell production being inhibited. In some cases there is also pain near the rib cage.
Blood in the Urine
Signs and symptoms of kidney failure may not occur until the kidneys have lost half of their function, warns the National Kidney Foundation. At this stage there may be blood or protein in the urine, which a physician can test for. Other signs include a loss of appetite and abdominal area cramping that gets worse at night.
