Renal insufficiency (also called renal failure) can be caused by acute renal failure or chronic kidney disease. Renal insufficiency results when the kidneys are no longer able to function at a high enough level to keep a person healthy. The Mayo Clinic reports that after renal failure, the body can no longer filter waste, leading to medical complications.
Urinary Changes
One of the early signs of renal insufficiency is a decrease in the amount of urine. A person may simply go to the bathroom less frequently, or just pass less urine each time. The Mayo Clinic reports that in the acute stages of renal insufficiency, this symptom is occasionally not present. However, other changes in the urine may be noticeable. According to the Medical College of Wisconsin, these include the presence of protein or blood in the urine, which is discovered through urinalysis. In later stages of renal insufficiency, a person's urine may also change colors.
Fatigue
Someone who is in the early stages of renal insufficiency might feel more tired than usual. According to Medline Plus, they might also have a general feeling of being unwell. Fatigue and drowsiness are common at this stage. Because these symptoms are vague and may be present without other symptoms in the early stages of renal failure, they can go unnoticed or might be overlooked.
Skin Changes
A person who is in the early stages of renal insufficiency may also notice changes in their skin. Medline Plus reports that it is common for the skin to become dry and itchy (a symptom called pruritis) in the acute stages of renal failure. As the disease progresses, skin may also change colors and appear darker or lighter than usual.
Appetite Loss
Appetite loss may occur early on for someone who has renal insufficiency. The Medical College of Wisconsin reports that food may begin to taste different. People in the early stages of renal failure often notice changes in their eating patterns. Weight loss is common during this stage, according to Medline Plus. A person with renal failure may also feel nauseated frequently and vomit regularly (often in the morning).
Fluid Retention
Because the kidneys are not able to process as much waste during renal failure, a person with renal insufficiency may experience sudden swelling. This is caused by excessive fluid retention in the body. The Medical College of Wisconsin reports that the first sign of fluid retention is usually puffiness around the eyes; however, swelling is also often present in the hands, feet and ankles.
Confusion
As renal insufficiency advances, a person may begin to experience cognitive changes. According to Medline Plus, they may become increasingly drowsy or even confused. Eventually, renal insufficiency can cause a person to have trouble concentrating on tasks.
