Signs your kidneys and liver need medical attention
Here are signs that one can experience when dealing with kidney or liver problems.
The liver is a critical organ in the human body.
It is one of the largest organs in the body and has many important metabolic functions.
It is also important for other functions including, immunity, digestion, detoxification, and vitamin storage, states the National Institutes of Health.
Worldwide, two-million people die from liver disease every year, states WebMD.
Things that can put you in danger of liver problems:
- Alcohol abuse.
- High cholesterol
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Obesity
- Diabetes or prediabetes
- Exposure to toxins, including overdosing on drugs that are broken down in the liver
- Acute liver failure
- Genetic disorders, like hemochromatosis
- Blockage of the ducts leading to the liver
- Autoimmune diseases
- Heart disease
Signs of liver failure according to WebMD:
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Swelling of the ankles.
- Swelling of the stomach
- Itchy skin
- Constant tiredness
- Loss of appetite.
However, the site warns that 'you can have chronic liver failure for years with no symptoms'.
Kidney
The kidneys are also vital organs in the human body.
They are responsible for removing waste products from the blood.
The kidneys also control the levels of many substances in the blood, as well as your blood pressure, reports Better Health.
Noticing the symptoms and seeking help can help save your life.
The South African National Department of Health shares signs that show that your kidneys may need medical attention:
- Swelling of the hands and feet
- Difficulty in urinating
- Foamy and dark urine
- Blood in your urine
- Muscle pains
- Severe backache
- Shortness of breathe
- Bad breath (fish or urine-like smell)
- Metallic taste in your mouth
- Puffy eyes.
If you notice any of these signs, go to your nearest clinic or your doctor for a check up. Contact: National HELPLINE 0800 012 322 or Kidney Foundation (011) 447 2542 or [email protected].
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Disclaimer: Health-related information provided in this article is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems. It is always advisable to consult with your doctor on any health-related issues.
Image courtesy of iStock/ @Shidlovski