Have you ever wondered how to know if your kidneys are functioning properly? Kidney function is important for overall health, and there are some ways to tell if yours are doing their job.
Check your urine.
If your urine is clear or pale yellow, that means your kidneys are doing a good job of filtering out waste. If it’s dark yellow or amber, that could be a sign that your kidneys aren’t working as efficiently as they should.
Look at your skin.
Healthy kidneys help keep your skin looking good by regulating fluid levels in the body. If you notice that you’re suddenly developing dry, itchy skin, this could be a sign that your kidney function is declining.
Pay attention to your energy levels.
Kidney function is important for maintaining healthy blood levels of sodium and potassium, which help to regulate energy levels. If you find that you’re suddenly feeling more tired than usual, it could be a sign that your kidneys aren’t performing as they should.
Check your blood pressure.
High blood pressure is a common symptom of kidney disease, so it’s important to keep an eye on your numbers. If you notice a sudden spike in your blood pressure, this could be a sign that your kidney function is declining.
Look for changes in your urination habits.
If you notice that you’re urinating more frequently or that your urine is foamy or cloudy, this could be a sign that your kidneys aren’t working properly.
Monitor your blood sugar levels.
Kidney disease is a common complication of diabetes, so it’s important to keep an eye on your blood sugar levels. If you find that they’re suddenly getting higher than normal, it could be a sign that your kidney function is declining.
Watch for swelling in your extremities.
One of the most common symptoms of kidney disease is swelling in the arms and legs. If you notice that you’re starting to swell up for no reason, it could be a sign that something’s wrong with your kidneys.
Check your appetite.
If you find that you suddenly don’t have as much of an appetite as usual, or that you’re losing weight for no reason, it could be a sign that your kidneys aren’t working properly.
Watch for changes in your mental state.
Kidney disease can sometimes lead to mood changes, such as feeling irritable or anxious. If you notice that you’re starting to feel different than usual, it’s important to talk to your doctor.
Get tested by a professional.
The best way to know for sure if your kidneys are functioning properly is to get tested by a professional. If you have any of the symptoms listed above, it’s worth getting checked out.
These are just some of the ways to tell if your kidneys are functioning properly. Kidney function is important for overall health, so it’s worth paying attention to. If you’re concerned about your kidney health, the team at Texas Kidney Institute can help. They offer comprehensive kidney care, from kidney disease detection and treatment to kidney transplantation. Contact them today at 214-234-2459 to learn more.
