20 Percent Kidney Function
The kidneys are a pair of organs that help remove wastes from the body and maintain internal balance. When kidney disorder occurs, these functions may be compromised. People who only have 20 percent kidney function remaining may face renal failure, an end-stage kidney dysfunction which can be life-threatening. To avoid this, patients must consult a nephrologist, who is a kidney specialist to get proper treatment and advice.
Part 1: Symptoms of 20 Percent Kidney Function
Symptoms of early kidney disorder are often mild and come unnoticed. However, people who have only 20 percent kidney function experience marked changes which include:
Anemia. A drop to 20 percent kidney function may result in breathlessness and
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With only 20 percent kidney function, patients will have high levels of potassium in their blood because the kidneys lose their ability to remove excess potassium from the body. This is a life-threatening condition that can result in abnormal heart rhythms and death. Potassium levels may be controlled with dietary restriction.
Excess Phosphorus. Patients with advanced kidney disease often experience itchy skin caused by excess phosphorus, which is due to the loss of the kidneys’ ability to filter. Dietary restriction helps minimize this symptom. Using skin moisturizers can help soothe itchy skin to prevent scratching.
Edema. Kidney disease often manifests as mild swelling in the eyelids and lower legs at the onset, but patients with 20 percent kidney function may have edema in even in their lungs, which can make breathing difficult.
Urine changes. Patients with kidney disease may find foam in their urine, which is caused by excess protein excretion. They may also have abnormal urine color and experience frequent urination at night.
Digestive problems. Patients with only 20 percent kidney function may also experience symptoms in their digestive system, which include nausea, vomiting, and loss of