Chronic Kidney Disease in Islamabad: Signs you Need to See a Nephrologist (Kidney Specialist)

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common kidney diseases in the US, affecting around 37 million people. Which shows how much you need a good nephrologist. Despite its ubiquity, over 90% of persons with CKD are completely ignorant of their condition. Chronic kidney disease is known as a “silent killer” because it has few and nonspecific symptoms, making it difficult to detect until irreversible damage has already occurred. In a survey done in 2019 in Islamabad, a city that is home to 11% of Pakistan’s population, we discovered that 25.3 percent of 300 persons 30 years or older in the community had some degree of decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR), with 5% having significant CKD (GFR 60ml/min). 2.

Even more alarming was the fact that just 2.3 percent of respondents were aware they had kidney disease, with the majority of low-income persons falling into this category. Coexisting diabetes was found in 20% of this group, HTN was found in 65%, and both diseases were found in 10%. Extrapolating these data, 12.86 million Pakistanis over the age of 30 are estimated to have some degree of renal impairment, indicating a significant disease burden. With such adverse figures, it is vital that you find the best kidney specialist in Islamabad. Keep an eye on all the signs so that you can consult with a nephrologist on time.

It’s important to stay alert and listen to your body, especially if you have risk factors such as diabetes or hypertension. If you observe any of the symptoms listed below, especially if they become persistent, ask your primary care physician for a referral to a kidney doctor (nephrologist) who can provide you with the specialized care you require.

Nephrologist for Urinary Problems

The fundamental function of your kidneys is to remove waste products (urea) from your blood and excrete them through urine.

The following urinary issues can be caused by kidney failure:

• Urge to urinate increases, while urine output decreases.
• Urine with an unusual hue or odor.
• Urine with blood or froth in it.
• Urination is excruciatingly painful.

Fatigue

Fatigue in patients with CKD is mainly caused by a combination of factors:

Anemia- When your kidneys aren’t working properly, they produce less erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that tells your bone marrow (the spongy tissue in the middle of most of your bones) to make red blood cells. Your body will have to work harder to carry enough oxygen to your tissues if your red blood cell count is low.

Toxin buildup– Toxins can build up in the bloodstream when kidney function declines.

Visit a Kidney Specialist in Case of Muscle Cramps

Because your kidneys are so important for fluid regulation in your body, a loss in their function can lead to electrolyte imbalance.

Electrolytes, which include calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphate, potassium, and sodium, are electrically charged minerals that your body needs to do things like produce energy, contract muscles, and maintain your cardiovascular, digestive, and nervous systems healthy. Electrolyte imbalance can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including muscle cramps.

Edema

Edema is another symptom that your kidneys are no longer working properly. The accumulation of extra fluid in your body’s tissues causes edema or swelling. It usually affects the feet, ankles, and legs.

Other Signs that Require a Visit to a Kidney Specialist

Aside from the signs and symptoms listed above, chronic kidney disease can also cause the following:

• Puffiness around the eyes (periorbital edema)
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• “Ammonia breath” and a metallic taste in the mouth (dysgeusia)
• Weight loss due to lack of appetite
• Headaches
• Sleep problems
• Itchy skin (uremic pruritis)
• Chest pains
• Shortness of breath

Finding the Best Kidney Specialist in Islamabad

Kidney Specialists are dime a dozen in Islamabad. Finding the best among the bunch is quite hard. Make sure that you choose the best nephrologist in Islamabad and he/she understands your condition and can treat you in the best way possible. Stay alert about all the symptoms and don’t take any of them lightly. Wish you health and safety. It’s important to stay alert and listen to your body, especially if you have risk factors such as diabetes or hypertension.

If you observe any of the symptoms listed below, especially if they become persistent, ask your primary care physician for a referral to a kidney doctor (nephrologist) who can provide you with the specialized care you require. If you have a complex or advanced kidney condition that necessitates specialist care, your primary care doctor would most likely refer you to a nephrologist. It’s crucial to remember that if you have particular concerns regarding kidney problems, you should talk to your doctor about them and, if required, request a referral.