10 Kidney Failure Symptoms
Symptom #7: Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath or dyspnea refers to the feeling where one is unable to breathe well enough. It is a feeling of discomfort resulting in air hunger, chest tightness, and increased effort needed to breathe. It can be normal as part of a physiological process due to exertion. However, it is pathological if there is little to no exertion. It can be seen in cases such as interstitial lung disease, congestive heart failure, pneumonia, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
In kidney failure patients, shortness of breath can be attributed to anemia (low levels of erythropoietin) and the accumulation of extra fluid in the lungs (failure of kidneys to remove excessive fluid). Patients with kidney failure who experience shortness of breath should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
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