. Changes in urine: frequency, color and texture
The kidneys produce urine, so their malfunction is often manifested by visible changes in urine. Typically, a healthy person urinates between 6 and 10 times a day. If you notice a sudden increase or decrease in urinary frequency, or if you have to get up several times a night to urinate, this may be a sign of a kidney problem.
- Blood in the urine : The presence of blood, called hematuria, can indicate a kidney infection, kidney stones, tumors, or even kidney failure. This symptom manifests as brownish, red, or purple urine, which is sometimes mistaken in women for a missed period.
- Foamy urine : Urine with persistent bubbles or white foam may indicate protein leakage into the urine. This occurs when damaged kidney filters allow albumin (a protein) to pass through, which would normally remain in the blood. This foam is similar to that seen when cooking eggs and should not be ignored.
2. Persistent fatigue
The kidneys remove toxins from the blood. When they are weakened, toxins build up, which can cause extreme fatigue, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. In addition, the kidneys produce erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen. A low red blood cell count reduces the amount of oxygen in the body, causing a feeling of chronic exhaustion, even after a night’s rest.
Urologists note that fatigue caused by kidney problems can make even simple tasks, such as walking or showering, difficult. To rule out any doubt, a blood test is recommended to detect possible anemia associated with kidney problems.
