Kidney damage: 7 nighttime signs you should note

Our kidneys are crucial for keeping our body healthy. They help manage blood pressure, balance electrolytes, and produce hormones.

However, when not left unchecked, the kidneys can suffer serious health problems including kidney damage and rupture!

When kidney damage happens, these important functions are hindered, which can lead to serious health problems.

Thus recognizing the early warning indicators is important to avoid long-term issues down the line.

In this article, Diaspora Digital Media tells you the top 7 such signs that appear primarily at night.

Look out for these warning signs of kidney damage at night to stay safe:

Frequent Urination
Waking up multiple times at night to urinate, known as nocturia, is one of the most common indicators of kidney problems.

This frequent urge to go can disrupt your sleep and leave you feeling exhausted.

It often suggests that your kidneys aren’t functioning well, struggling to concentrate urine, which results in increased production.

Knowing about this symptom is crucial as it may point to underlying kidney damage that needs attention from a healthcare provider.

Smelly Urine
Noticing changes in the color and odor of your urine can also signal potential kidney damage.

Healthy urine typically ranges from pale yellow to amber. If you see it darker or notice an unusual, strong odour, it could be a warning sign.

Dark urine might indicate dehydration or even blood, while a strong smell could suggest an infection or other kidney issues.

Keeping an eye on these changes can offer important insights into your kidney health and encourage you to seek medical advice if necessary.

Swelling and Fluid Retention
Experiencing swelling, especially in your legs, ankles, or around your eyes, can be another nighttime symptom related to kidney issues.

When the kidneys can’t filter out excess fluid properly, fluid starts to build up in the body, often worsening at night.

It’s crucial to pay attention to any unusual swelling, as persistent symptoms should prompt a visit to a healthcare professional to evaluate your kidney function.

Foamy Urine
Foamy urination is another sign of kidney damage that shouldn’t be ignored at any cost!

If you notice your urine is turning a little foamy along with a pungent smell and change in texture, make sure to visit a doctor immediately to know if your kidneys are in danger.

Extreme Fatigue and Tiredness
Feeling excessively tired or weak is common for those dealing with kidney damage. These feelings might intensify at night as your body tries to rest.

The kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin that helps with red blood cell production.

If kidney function decreases, so do erythropoietin levels, leading to anaemia and more fatigue.

If you find your energy levels significantly drop, especially at night, without any delay make sure to consult a doctor.

Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting can also indicate kidney issues, particularly at night.

When the kidneys fail to filter out toxins effectively, these substances can build up in the bloodstream, causing stomach problems.

If you’re frequently feeling nauseous or vomiting during the night, it’s vital to seek medical help, as it could mean your kidneys are not doing their job properly.

Discomfort and Restlessness
Many people with kidney problems experience disrupted sleep.

Frequent urination, discomfort, and other related symptoms can lead to insomnia or restless nights.

Poor sleep quality can make fatigue worse and weaken your immune system, creating a troublesome cycle.

If you find your sleep is constantly interrupted by symptoms related to your kidneys, it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional about the underlying issues.

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