Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Sep 5: Once thought of as ailments affecting mostly the elderly, kidney problems are now increasingly being reported among younger populations. The sharp rise in cases of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is being linked to growing incidences of diabetes, hypertension, sedentary lifestyles, poor diet, and obesity.

Health experts caution that the shift is alarming and call for greater awareness, early detection, and preventive care. Regular screening, adopting healthy habits, and better education among youth are vital to curb the burden of kidney-related illness in India.

Are you at risk?

Doctors say many early signs of kidney trouble are subtle and often ignored until the condition worsens. Here are some symptoms that warrant attention:

• Disturbed sleep: Improper kidney function leads to toxin build-up in the blood, making it difficult to sleep soundly. Many CKD patients also report sleep apnea.

• Frequent urination, especially at night: Damaged kidney filters can cause increased urges to urinate. Though this could also indicate urinary infections or, in men, an enlarged prostate, sudden changes in frequency should not be ignored.

• Foamy or bubbly urine: Excess protein leakage in the urine is one of the earliest signs of kidney disease.

• Persistent swelling: Puffiness around the eyes, swollen ankles, feet, or hands may indicate fluid retention due to declining kidney function.

• Fatigue and weakness: Healthy kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin that helps make red blood cells. Failing kidneys can cause anemia, leading to tiredness.

• Dry and itchy skin: Imbalances in minerals and nutrients caused by poor kidney health may show up as skin problems.

• Poor appetite and nausea: Accumulation of waste in the body can reduce appetite, sometimes causing nausea or vomiting.

• Difficulty concentrating: A drop in kidney function may affect oxygen delivery to the brain, causing memory issues or poor focus.

Doctors stress that these signs do not always mean kidney disease, but they should never be brushed aside. Early consultation with a nephrologist and simple tests like blood pressure check, urine analysis, and serum creatinine levels can make a life-saving difference.