Functions of the Kidneys
The kidneys perform many vital functions to maintain a clean and healthy internal environment:
- Keeps the internal environment of our body clean and healthy
- Excretes the metabolic waste products of food, especially nitrogenous waste
- Produces erythropoietin, a hormone that helps in blood formation
- Excretes metabolic acids and other toxic compounds
- Contributes to healthy bone formation by making active vitamin D
- In chronic kidney disease, both kidneys lose their functions, leading to various health problems
The most important point to remember is that even up to advanced stages of kidney failure, like CKD stages IV and V, patients often do not show any symptoms.
Early Symptoms of Kidney Failure
- Polyuria (passing more urine) – paradoxical!
- Nocturia (passing more urine during the night)
- Pedal edema (swelling of the feet), puffiness of the face
- Persistent aches and pains
- High blood pressure
- Shortness of breath with mild exertion
- Inability to complete the family
- Fatigue, lassitude, and tiredness
It is important to note that many of these symptoms can be caused by other health issues, not just kidney disease. The only way to determine the cause is to visit your nephrologist in Delhi, India.
