What to do:
If you experience sudden or progressive shortness of breath, seek medical help immediately.
🧠7. Confusion, “brain fog,” difficulty concentrating
Waste products in the blood affect the brain: memory weakens, concentration is lost, confusion and forgetfulness appear.
What to do?
Don’t ignore a sudden cognitive change; talk to your doctor, especially if it’s associated with other symptoms.
🧍♀️8. Muscle cramps and contractiont
Low levels of potassium, calcium, and sodium due to kidney dysfunction cause nighttime muscle cramps or twitching.
What to do?
Make sure you’re not dehydrated. If cramps persist, get blood tests.
🩺9. High blood pressure that is difficult to control
The kidneys regulate fluids and salts. When damaged, blood pressure increases, which is often not affected by medication.
What to do:
If high blood pressure persists, request a kidney function test.
🧊10. Constant feeling of cold
Anemia due to a lack of erythropoietin causes a feeling of coldness, even in a warm room.
What to do?
Get your hemoglobin and iron levels tested; check for anemia.
🩺Why early detection is crucial
Kidney disease is often called the “silent killer”: symptoms develop slowly and are attributed to age, stress, or diet. If detected early, it can:
be delayed or even stopped;
to prevent dialysis or transplantation;
reduce heart complications;
to improve your quality of life.
