Signs & Symptoms of Kidney Failiure

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By Constance Lang
eHow Contributing Writer

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Blood from renal arteries is carried into the kidneys where it is filtered and excess waste and fluid are removed. The kidney's small blood vessels filter and help reuse needed vitamins and minerals from the blood entering the kidneys. If the excretion of urine is blocked, the blood vessels become damaged or blood flow is restricted, kidney failure can occur. It is important to recognize signs and symptoms associated with kidney failure, which sometimes can be similar to those of other ailments.

Urine Discoloration

Dark-colored urine and urine retention can be signs of kidney failure. As the kidneys lose function, waste materials back up within the kidneys and damage the ureters, ducts that transport the urine from the kidneys. Bacteria can grow and cause discoloration of the urine and possible infections. As increased damage to the ureters occur, more urine gets retained and kidney function lowers.

Skin Rashes

Wastes are removed from the bloodstream by the kidneys. As kidney failure occurs, waste products build up in the bloodstream causing itching and rashes. In some cases, the itching is so severe it can cause bleeding.

Anemia

Healthy kidneys produce a molecule named erythropoietin, which assists in the formation of red blood cells within the bone marrow. When kidney failure occurs, the production of this molecule is diminished, thus limiting the red blood cells in the blood and resulting in anemia.

Edema

Kidneys assist in keeping a healthy balance of sodium, fluids, electrolytes and waste products within the body. When renal failure occurs, fluids back up in the body and sodium retention occurs. Edema is the collection of this additional bodily fluid, most commonly in the feet, stomach and legs.

Diabetes

Diabetes both types I and II can contribute to kidney failure as the high blood sugar levels damage blood vessels responsible for filtering waste. According to the Mayo Clinic, in the United States, diabetes is the number one risk factor for kidney failure.

Lower Back Pain

Flank pain or lower back pain typically occurs below the ribs in the lower back. Pain can be fleeting or constant, dull or sharp. The pain may be accompanied by fever, vomiting or nausea.

High Blood Pressure

According to the American Kidney Fund, high blood pressure is the second leading cause of chronic kidney failure. Hypertension is the result of narrowed arteries causing increased pressure to blood flow within the arteries. Blood vessels within the kidneys get permanently damaged and the kidneys' filtering abilities are compromised. High blood pressure causes one in four individuals to suffer from kidney failure.