Common Symptoms Of Uremia

Muscle Cramps

One of the side effects of kidney failure and uremia is elevated potassium in the body, resulting in hyperkalemia, of which muscle cramps are a symptom. High levels of potassium adversely affect smooth, skeletal muscle, which can translate to nausea and abdominal cramping. Additionally, patients may experience fatigue, muscle weakness, numbness, tingling, or diarrhea. High levels of potassium are a surprisingly deadly symptom in late-stage kidney disease. As the kidneys begin to fail and stop filtering phosphorus from the blood, they will also stop properly filtering potassium. Unfortunately, the symptoms are usually so subtle that patients don't know this is happening until cardiac symptoms occur. As long as patients are regularly checking in with a doctor, they will be told whether they should keep an eye on their potassium. Cramps can also occur in the lower back; it is common to experience dull aching. Seek emergency medical help for sharp, severe, stabbing pains, however, as this is not consistent with kidney failure flank pain.

Continue reading for more uremia symptoms to watch for.