The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining our overall health by filtering 120-150 quarts of blood each day. Positioned beneath the ribs, these vital organs help stabilize blood composition, prevent the buildup of waste and excess fluids, balance electrolyte levels, produce red blood cells, regulate blood pressure, and support bone health.

However, kidney damage can lead to significant complications. Recognizing the signs of kidney dysfunction is essential for preventing further health issues and ensuring timely treatment.

Common indicators of kidney problems include:

Swelling: Damaged kidneys can cause fluid buildup, leading to swelling in areas such as the legs, ankles, hands, face, and feet. This occurs because the kidneys are unable to remove excess waste and fluids effectively.

Skin Rashes: Skin rashes may appear as an early warning sign of kidney damage. Additionally, changes in urination patterns can be a clue, including:

• A decrease in urine output
• Pale, frequent, and large volumes of urine
• Foamy urine
• Dark, concentrated urine with less frequent and smaller volumes
• Pressure or discomfort while urinating
• Difficulty urinating
• A frequent urge to urinate during the night

Healthy kidneys produce erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone essential for generating red blood cells that transport oxygen throughout the body. A drop in red blood cell count can result in muscle damage, severe anemia, fatigue, and cognitive issues.