10 Signs of Kidney Failure
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
Kidney Failure Sign #4: Shortness of Breath
While there are many conditions that can cause shortness of breath, it could also be a sign of kidney failure. But how would a kidney problem cause a breathing problem? There are two ways that kidney failure can cause shortness of breath. First; fluid buildup can occur in the lungs and reduce capacity for oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange.
Additionally, because the kidneys secrete the EPO hormone responsible for signalling the production of red blood cells; kidney failure can disrupt EPO production. This leads to a drop in the numbers of the oxygen transporting red blood cells. As a consequence, the lungs have to work harder in a quest to get more oxygen into the available red blood cells.
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