Symptoms of Kidney Failure

Kidney failure can manifest in various ways, and its symptoms may vary depending on the severity and underlying cause. Some common signs and symptoms include:

1. Fatigue and weakness: The buildup of waste products in the body can lead to exhaustion and a general feeling of weakness.

2. Swelling: Fluid retention due to impaired kidney function can cause swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, and hands.

3. Changes in urine output: Kidney failure may result in decreased urine output or increased frequency of urination.

4. Shortness of breath: Accumulation of fluid in the lungs can cause difficulty in breathing.

5. High blood pressure: The kidneys play a role in regulating blood pressure, so kidney failure can lead to hypertension.

6. Anemia: The kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood cells. In kidney failure, the decreased production of this hormone can result in anemia.