Health Desk. Kidney is included in the important organs of the body. It helps in removing waste products and excess water from the blood and maintaining the balance of fluids and many essential elements in the body. If kidney function is affected, some changes may be seen in the body. However, in early kidney disease, sometimes no obvious symptoms are seen. In such a situation, regular testing is especially important for people at risk.

1. Swelling on legs and face

If the kidneys do not function properly, excess water and salt can accumulate in the body. This may cause swelling to appear around the feet, ankles, hands or eyes.

2. Changes in urination

Changes in the amount of urine or frequency of urination can be a sign of kidney- problems. Seeing foam or blood in urine can also be a reason for investigation.

3. Constant fatigue and weakness

As kidney disease progresses, waste materials can accumulate in the body. With this, the person may feel constant fatigue, weakness or lack of energy.

4. Loss of appetite and nausea

When kidney function is severely affected, waste products in the body may increase. In such a situation, complaints like loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting may occur.

5. Shortness of breath or trouble sleeping

Shortness of breath and difficulty sleeping can occur due to accumulation of excess fluid in the body or other problems to kidney disease. If such symptoms persist, medical examination is necessary.

When to get tested?

Seeing any of these symptoms does not mean that the kidneys are getting damaged, because there can be many other reasons for them. But persistent swelling, blood in urine, severe difficulty in breathing or rapidly deteriorating health should not be ignored. The doctor may advise blood test, urine test and kidney test as per need.