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8 most common signs of poor kidney function

The kidneys play a vital role in maintaining the body’s equilibrium by filtering waste, regulating fluid balance and electrolyte levels, and producing hormones essential for various bodily functions. Any impairment in kidney function due to various reasons can lead to a range of symptoms. Some early indicators may suggest compromised kidney function. Understanding these signs can enable individuals to take proactive steps, seek medical assistance promptly, and minimize the risk of further complications.

Signs of poor kidney function
Changes in urine color, smell, and consistency
If one notices any changes in the color, frequency, or smell of one’s urine, it is usually considered an early sign of kidney disorder. One may experience an increased need to urinate, especially at night, which can disrupt normal sleep patterns. Conversely, one may see a significant decrease in one’s urges to urinate, which leads to a buildup of waste products and fluid retention in the body. Similarly, if one’s urine smells foul or has changed color to dark, foamy, or bloody, it may be a cause for concern.

Changes in appetite and taste
Poor kidney function can impact the digestive system, and individuals may experience a persistent metallic taste in the mouth or a significant loss of appetite.

Exhaustion
One may feel general weakness or fatigue without any lifestyle changes due to toxins getting accumulated in the body.

Protein in urine
Kidneys retain the protein in the body and flush out other toxins, but any malfunctioning of the organs can cause protein loss through one’s urine. This symptom, however, can only be diagnosed with lab tests.

Swelling
If one notices swelling in one’s legs, ankles, or hands, it may indicate fluid retention and kidney damage.

Breathlessness
Poor kidney function can cause fluid buildup or a decrease in red blood cells, leading to shortness of breath. Moreover, one may experience chest pain if fluid accumulates around the heart lining.

Itching and dry skin
When kidneys are unable to eliminate toxins, they seep into one’s blood, circulate in the body, and make one’s skin itch. So dry, itchy skin or rashes can be a sign to watch out for.

Muscle cramps and bone health problems
Kidneys balance the body’s electrolytes, calcium, and other minerals. Impaired kidney function can weaken bones and make one more prone to muscular cramps and fractures.

Apart from these, here are a few other signs that should prompt one to seek medical help and get one’s kidneys checked:

Nausea and vomiting
Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Sleep apnea
Difficulty controlling high blood pressure
Increased susceptibility to infections

Causes that lead to poor kidney function
Chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure can gradually affect one’s kidneys. Similarly, kidney stones, urinary tract obstructions, autoimmune disorders like lupus, genetic abnormalities that lead to cysts forming in one’s kidneys, or prolonged exposure to toxic substances are some other causes that lead to poor kidney function. Understanding and addressing these underlying causes is important to promote overall kidney health. Apart from this, a sedentary lifestyle, kidney stones, or lead poisoning can also contribute to a person developing kidney issues.

Coping with urges that can trigger a relapse post treatment

Addictions when left untreated can turn into crippling conditions. One can be addicted to smoking, binge drinking, or even shopping. Once addicted, one willfully submits to urges, despite having satisfied them before. However, addictions can be managed and to a great extent treated to full recovery. But, the post-recovery phase is crucial where both the mind and body are put to test and can trigger a relapse. Continue reading to know more about the most common triggers for addictions and how to deal with them.Stress Stress is commonly the root cause of many problems and addictions, both physical and psychological. One can become an addict as a way to manage the stress that may stem from strained relationships or priorities. The best way to avoid a relapse during recovery is to make lifestyle changes that donât trigger a return to addictions amidst a stressful situation. One can practice mindfulness, engage in relaxation techniques, manage oneâs time to avoid stressful situations, and imbibe healthy eating habits and exercise in their daily routine. EmotionsThere is an umpteen number of triggers that invoke a positive or negative emotional response. However, the stress associated with dealing with emotions daily can trigger urges without one even realizing. Often, one turns to a glass of alcohol or relies on prescription medications to put the mind at ease. It is not a permanent solution and prolonged use of these substances can cause more harm in the long run. One must learn and explore productive ways of controlling emotions better to avoid a relapse during recovery. For example, writing and maintaining a journal that contains oneâs feelings and thoughts can act as a healthy outlet. Similarly, there are other healthy ways to channel oneâs energy and manage emotional responses.Positive conditioningPeople who have addictions such as smoking or drinking may often find themselves in situations where a lit cigarette or a glass of wine can trigger a relapse. This is understandable considering these substances were the primary source of comfort and relaxation. However, with positive reinforcement and reconditioning one can train the mind and curb such urges. Relaxation doesnât always mean techniques like yoga or meditation, it can also be pursuing your hobby. Counseling for group gatheringsBirthdays, parties, New Yearâs events, and any celebration in general call for alcohol consumption and smoking. At times, these could be the very addictions one is recovering from, and in a social gathering, such temptations can be strong. However, a recovering addict should refrain from indulging in any of these as even a taste can turn into a relapse. For instance, a recovering alcoholic must avoid having a single drink as that could put him/her on a slippery slope to relapse. Here, one-on-one counseling can help prepare the mind to resist the urge. It is never healthy for a recovering addict to simply avoid socializing fearing a relapse.

3 signs of liver damage to never ignore

The liver performs several crucial bodily functions. For instance, it eliminates toxins, supports digestion, and helps store essential nutrients. However, specific lifestyle habits and underlying health conditions can affect the organ, lowering its performance and increasing the risk of severe complications. When that happens, one may develop numerous symptoms. Here are a few such signs of liver damage individuals should not ignore and immediately get a diagnosis from a healthcare professional. Jaundice Jaundice, characterized by the yellowing of the eyes and skin, is also called yellow fever. The ailment develops when there is a buildup of toxic compounds and waste products in the body, which the liver cannot filter out. Bilirubin is an example of such a toxic compound, formed when the body breaks down old or damaged red blood cells. When the liver cannot appropriately filter out bilirubin from the body, its buildup gives the skin, eyes, and even the mouth a yellow tint. One's urine may also turn dark and the stool pale when suffering from jaundice. These are potential signs of liver damage that should never be ignored. Fatty liver disease Fatty liver disease is a common term for numerous illnesses that affect the liver when too much fat accumulates in its cells. The condition leads to several symptoms that should not be ignored, such as pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen, constant fatigue, red palms, yellowing of the skin and eyes, enlarged spleen, enlarged blood vessels just beneath the skin's surface, and abdominal swelling. Some of these symptoms also point toward liver scarring or cirrhosis, which needs immediate attention from a health professional. Viral infections Research studies suggest a link between viral infections and liver disease. Infections like hepatitis B and C directly point toward complications like liver damage or even liver cancer. Diagnosing hepatitis B is tricky as patients do not exhibit symptoms until too late; however, regular testing can help detect a problem. A significant risk factor of this condition includes sharing personal items like razors with someone already infected. The virus can also be transferred through infected semen and other body fluids, so it is always advised to be careful and use protection during intercourse. The above are some illnesses that point toward a damaged liver. Those who develop them should visit a doctor as soon as possible. Individuals can avoid such ailments by following healthy lifestyle habits. Studies suggest eating nutritious meals is essential in keeping the liver healthy, so one should choose foods and beverages wisely. If confused, individuals should speak to a nutritionist or a primary care doctor to understand the best foods to prevent liver disease. The expert may also list other healthy practices to keep the condition at bay.

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