The doctor talked about the symptoms of kidney disease

Edema of various localizations may indicate pathological processes in the kidneys. Pavel Nizin, a urologist at the Sberbank Health medical company, told Izvestia about some of the symptoms of diseases of the paired organ on March 12.

"When kidney function is impaired, a variety of symptoms may occur. One of them includes edema of various localizations — face, arms, legs. They occur due to fluid retention due to impaired renal excretion of sodium and water," he explained.

Nizin recalled that changes in urination can also be a symptom of the presence of pathology. For example, it becomes rare or, conversely, frequent, intermittent. There may also be changes in the properties of urine. During infectious processes, it becomes frothy or cloudy, with urolithiasis — with an admixture of blood. However, its appearance is often detected only when an analysis is performed.

In addition, lower back pain may occur, more often on one side. It occurs in the inflammatory process, for example, pyelonephritis, exacerbation of urolithiasis. Non-specific symptoms may also occur, including fatigue, weakness, decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, itching of the skin, and increased blood pressure.

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"The data from a general urinalysis will help to suspect inflammation in the urinary system or urolithiasis. Blood tests for creatinine, urea, and electrolytes (potassium, sodium, calcium, and phosphorus) are necessary to evaluate kidney function. Ultrasound examination of the kidneys allows us to assess their structure, signs of impaired urine outflow and identify stones, cysts, and tumors with good visualization," the urologist noted.

The specialist emphasized that, if necessary and according to indications, a kidney biopsy may be required.

"It is important to understand that the early stage of kidney disease is often asymptomatic or with non-specific manifestations, which is why it is so important to undergo annual preventive examinations and checkups," the doctor noted.

There are several important points in the prevention of kidney disease. For example, you need to consume no more than 5 g of salt per day and maintain a water balance of at least 1.5—2 liters in the absence of contraindications, including, for example, heart failure, recommended by Nizin.

In the presence of chronic diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, they need to be corrected together with a doctor. If kidney disease has already been detected, it is also important to see a doctor and follow his recommendations, the urologist concluded.

On February 27, Artur Bogatyrev, a urologist and andrologist at the SM Clinic Center for Reproductive Health, told Izvestia about the non-obvious symptoms of kidney disease. According to him, such signs include difficulty or rapid urination, often accompanied by unpleasant sensations, as well as symptoms characteristic of cystitis. In addition, it is worth paying attention to the swelling of the face and legs, decreased appetite, the presence of blood in the urine, aching or acute pain in the lumbar region and back, the doctor added.