Chronic kidney disease, commonly referred to as CKD, can affect people in different ways. Some people may notice changes in their general wellbeing, while others may experience no obvious changes, particularly during the earlier stages.
The following information is provided for general awareness. The presence or absence of these symptoms cannot, by itself, confirm whether someone has CKD.
What role do the kidneys play?
Kidneys perform crucial functions affecting every part of our organism. Their primary role is the excretion of metabolic end-products, such as urea and uric acid, toxins, and excess fluid, in order to maintain a stable balance of body chemicals and fluids. These bean-shaped organs function normally by filtering about 30% of plasma flow, generating approximately 150 litres of ultra-filtrate, which constitutes almost three times the total body water of a 70 kg weighing person. That’s why kidneys are the so-called filters of the human body.
Changes that may be associated with CKD
- lower energy levels and an overall feeling of being more tired
- sleeping difficulties
- loss of appetite
- trouble concentrating
- muscle cramps during the night
- urge to urinate more often, especially during the night
- puffiness in your eye area, especially after waking up
- swelling of your feet and ankles
- dry, itchy skin
Can CKD exist without noticeable symptoms?
Some people with CKD may not notice clear changes, particularly during the earlier stages. The way CKD is experienced can vary from one person to another.
The changes listed above are not unique to CKD and may have many different explanations. They should therefore be understood as general awareness information rather than as a way to identify a health condition.
Why symptoms do not tell the whole story
Symptoms alone cannot reliably confirm whether CKD is present or indicate how advanced it may be. Information about kidney health may come from a combination of a person’s health history and routine blood and urine test results.
The meaning of any symptom or test result depends on the individual’s circumstances and should be interpreted in the appropriate professional context.
FAQs
There is no single experience that applies to everyone. Some people may notice tiredness, changes in urination, swelling, sleeping difficulties or reduced appetite, while others may not notice any clear changes.
No. The changes listed in this article are not specific to CKD and may have many possible explanations.
Symptoms alone cannot reliably show whether CKD is present or how advanced it may be.
Yes. Some people may not experience noticeable changes, particularly during the earlier stages.
Living beyond dialysis
For patients who are already receiving dialysis, treatment does not necessarily mean giving up everyday goals, meaningful experiences or future plans. Fiona’s story offers a personal perspective on living with dialysis and continuing to make plans.
Travel may also remain part of life after dialysis becomes part of a person’s routine. Readers beginning to explore this possibility can start with our guide, Travelling Abroad on Dialysis: A Step by Step Guide. It presents the travel-planning process in clear, manageable stages.
For a closer look at treatment requests, clinic confirmation, documents and practical arrangements, continue with our cornerstone article, Booking Dialysis Abroad: What Patients Should Know.
Readers who are still wondering whether travel can remain part of their lives may also find Can You Travel on Dialysis? What You Need to Know helpful.
Originally posted at bookdialysis.com
