A diagnosis of chronic renal failure, also called chronic kidney disease, means that the kidneys---paired organs that help rid the body of toxins and waste---are gradually losing the ability to function. Treatment may involve dialysis treatments or kidney transplant surgery. An understanding of potential symptoms of chronic kidney failure is important, according to the National Kidney Foundation, as early detection and treatment may help prevent or reduce the progression of the disease.
Digestive Symptoms
Because the kidneys play an important role in the digestive process, chronic kidney failure can trigger digestive symptoms. As with other symptoms of chronic kidney failure, digestive symptoms develop gradually. Common digestive symptoms of kidney failure include reduced volume or frequency of urination, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. In some cases, urination stops completely. Because digestive symptoms can indicate a variety of illnesses and conditions, such as indigestion, poor diet and other digestive disorders, they may not be immediately attributed to kidney failure, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Exhaustion and Physical Weakness
In addition to removing waste from the body, the kidneys support proper chemical balance in the body by regulating electrolytes. When the kidneys lose the ability to balance electrolytes, such as sodium, phosphorus and potassium, extreme tiredness and physical weakness may occur. According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, proper balance of electrolytes is necessary for life; thus, if left untreated, electrolyte imbalances caused by renal failure may be fatal.
Cognitive Difficulty
When chronic renal failure disturbs electrolyte balance, patients may develop cognitive symptoms. They may feel as though they have lost mental sharpness, according to the Mayo Clinic. Chronic renal failure may also affect memory, concentration and mental reaction times.
Itching and Swelling
Kidney disease and kidney dialysis treatment can trigger itchy skin. According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, skin itching occurs when the kidneys fail to remove particular toxins, known as uremic toxins, from the blood. Skin itching can also derive from increased hormone levels caused by kidney disease. People with chronic kidney disease may also experience swelling, also called edema. In many cases, patients will notice swelling in the hands, feet and ankles.
Sleep Problems
Any symptom of chronic kidney failure may disturb sleep. If a patient experiences frequent urination, he may wake frequently during the night. Nausea and vomiting and skin itching may also disrupt sleep. Some people with chronic kidney disease experience muscular twitching, according to the Mayo Clinic. If twitching is severe or frequent, frequent waking or inability to sleep may occur.
