kidney disease face - #18854
I am really worried because I've been noticing some strange things happening lately. A few weeks ago, I started feeling super tired all the time, like no matter how much I sleep, I'm always exhausted. Then I noticed some swelling around my face, which was weird and I thought maybe I just need to hydrate more or something, but it didn’t go away. I went to the doctor and they said it could be a sign of kidney disease, which freaked me out. They did some blood tests and told me my creatinine levels were a bit high, but didn’t give me the full picture yet. I've been googling kidney disease face, and it seems like swelling and puffiness in the face is a common symptom. But honestly, the more I read, the more anxious I get. I guess I’m just looking for some advice or if anyone else has experienced this thing where kidney disease can affect your face? Like, is it always just swelling or are there other things to watch for? Should I push for more tests or second opinions? I know I shouldn’t rely on Google for answers, but I can't help but feel like I'm just missing some key info here.
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Doctors' responses
Swelling of the face, which you’ve aptly referred to as “kidney disease face,” can indeed be a symptom of kidney issues, also known as edema. This is typically related to the kidneys’ diminished ability to manage fluid and waste, which can lead to fluid retention and thus swelling. Your concern makes sense given the symptoms—fatigue and facial swelling coupled with high creatinine levels—point towards possible kidney involvement. However, it’s key to get a comprehensive view to understand what’s happening. Elevated creatinine is one indicator, signaling that the kidneys may not be filtering blood optimally. It’s great that you’ve already had some tests done, but it might be beneficial to discuss with your doctor about doing a more detailed kidney function test, such as assessing the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), as well as possibly analyzing urine for protein or blood. Sometimes, additional imaging tests like an ultrasound or CT scan of the kidneys can be insightful.
Also, understanding any underlying conditions, such as hypertension or diabetes, is crucial since they can hike the risk for kidney issues. It’s worth asking your doctor to evaluate these, if relevant. Remember, discussing with your healthcare provider about all symptoms helps in forming a more complete diagnosis, so bringing up specific concerns like persistent tiredness and swelling is important. Depending on your results and ongoing symptoms, considering a second opinion from a nephrologist— a specialist in kidney health—might be worthwhile, especially if the initial results leave room for ambiguity. In terms of looking out for other symptoms, keep an eye on changes in urination patterns, consistent nausea, or any new, persistent itches; these can also indicate kidney strain. Remember, while internet searches can cause anxiety, they can also guide useful conversations with your medical team, so steer these discussions toward tests and changes you’ve noticed in your health for your peace of mind.
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