"Do People with Uremia Experience Renal Pain?"
Uremic Renal Pain
Renal pain in individuals with uremia typically refers to discomfort in the kidney region during renal failure. In the early stages of renal failure, renal pain is generally absent. However, it may manifest in the end-stage of renal failure, primarily due to local anatomical changes in the kidneys or induced factors.
Early Stage of Renal Failure:
- Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Early renal failure often presents with gastrointestinal symptoms such as decreased appetite, nausea, and vomiting. These occur due to the accumulation of toxins and fluids in the body, stimulating the gastrointestinal mucosa, leading to pain.
- Anemia: Reduced erythropoietin secretion by the kidneys in the early stages of renal failure leads to decreased red blood cell synthesis. Some patients may develop anemia. When early renal failure is accompanied by renal anemia, reduced erythropoietin secretion prompts an increase in endogenous erythropoietin, resulting in massive red blood cell destruction in the kidneys and subsequent renal pain.
- Electrolyte Imbalance: Early renal failure causes the accumulation of toxins and fluids, leading to electrolyte imbalances. This accumulation stimulates surrounding nerves, causing renal pain.
- Hypertension: The accumulation of water and sodium retention, along with hypertension, in the early stages of renal failure can elevate blood pressure. Renal ischemia and hypoxia at this stage can induce renal pain.
End-Stage Renal Failure:
In end-stage renal failure, patients experience endocrine dysfunction and酸碱平衡失调 (acid-base imbalance), leading to systemic symptoms across various systems, including:
- Digestive System: Symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and anorexia.
- Cardiovascular System: Manifestations such as chest tightness and shortness of breath.
- Respiratory System: Symptoms like dyspnea and chest tightness.
- Nervous System: Manifestations like irritability and drowsiness.
The accumulation of toxins and fluids can cause electrolyte imbalances and酸碱平衡失调 (acid-base imbalances) in uremic patients, leading to visceral pain. If these symptoms occur, it is recommended to promptly consult a nephrologist for ultrasound, blood tests, and other diagnostic evaluations to ascertain the specific condition.
