Kidney failure is a serious health condition. In this article, we will discuss the signs of kidney failure in the final stages and the critical levels indicating the severity of the condition. This information is important for people suffering from kidney disease or those caring for kidney patients.
What is Kidney Failure?
Kidney failure occurs when the kidneys stop working properly. This means that the kidneys can no longer efficiently remove waste and toxins from the blood. As a result, kidney failure can lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body, causing a range of serious health symptoms.
Early Signs of Kidney Failure: How Can You Detect the Disease in Its Early Stages?
Early signs of kidney failure may be mild and unclear, often being overlooked. It is crucial to know these signs for early diagnosis and timely medical intervention. Early signs include:
- Persistent fatigue and tiredness: The patient may feel unexplained fatigue due to the buildup of toxins in the blood, which are not effectively filtered.
Swelling in the feet and ankles: Swelling may appear in the limbs due to the buildup of excess fluids in the body, as the kidneys are unable to eliminate them.
- Changes in urination: This may include an increase or decrease in urine output, or the appearance of foam in the urine.
- Difficulty concentrating: The buildup of toxins in the blood can affect brain functions, leading to difficulty focusing or feeling confused.
Loss of appetite and nausea: The accumulation of waste products can lead to digestive disorders and feelings of nausea.
Dry skin: Due to the kidneys’ inability to maintain a balance of minerals and water in the body, the skin may become dry or itchy.
Stages of Kidney Failure
Kidney failure is divided into five different stages. These stages are based on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), a test that measures how much blood the kidneys filter per minute. The stages range from stage 1, the least severe, to stage 5, the most severe, also known as end-stage kidney failure.
- Stage 1: GFR more than 90
Stage 2: GFR between 60 and 89
Stage 3: GFR between 30 and 59
Stage 4: GFR between 15 and 29
Stage 5: GFR less than 15
Symptoms of Acute Kidney Failure and Potential Signs of Death
Indicating Levels of Kidney Failure Severity
There are several laboratory tests that can indicate the severity of kidney failure. These tests include measuring creatinine and urea levels in the blood. Typically, elevated levels indicate a decline in kidney function.
- Creatinine: Produced when proteins are broken down in the body, creatinine is normally filtered from the blood by the kidneys.
- Urea: Formed from the breakdown of proteins, urea accumulates in the blood when kidney function deteriorates.
Acute Kidney Failure Symptoms and Signs of Potential Death
As kidney failure progresses to the final stage, acute symptoms may appear. These symptoms can include extreme weakness, difficulty breathing, and changes in consciousness. Signs of impending death from kidney failure may also include coma and complete cessation of urination. It is crucial to seek immediate medical care when these symptoms appear. Remember, the goal is to improve both the quality and length of life for patients, not just to manage symptoms.
Finally: Treatment and Ways to Support a Patient with Kidney Failure
In the case of kidney failure, the next steps may involve treatment and support. Treatment may include dialysis or, in some cases, a kidney transplant. Support can include psychological and social care, along with education on managing the condition.
Conclusion
Kidney failure is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Knowing the signs and symptoms can help identify the final stage and act quickly to obtain treatment.
This article was written by
Dr. Khaled Mahmoud Mzayen
Consultant Nephrologist and Internal Medicine
