What Is a Typical Case of Uremia?

Uremia is the terminal stage of chronic kidney failure, with kidney function basically lost. There is no specific clinical definition, and the so-called typical uremia should refer to acute kidney injury. Acute kidney injury clinically manifests as rapid onset and progression, often caused by insufficient renal blood flow supply or factors related to kidney injury sites, such as excessive local blood supply. Symptoms of typical uremia patients include edema, hypertension, gastrointestinal discomfort, fatigue, dyspnea, skin itching, anemia, and may also be accompanied by complications such as infection, acidosis, and electrolyte imbalance. The specific symptoms are as follows:

1. Edema: Due to abnormal kidney function, urine output decreases, leading to water retention in the body, resulting in edema in the face and both lower limbs.

2. Hypertension: Kidney damage leads to increased renin secretion, causing secondary hypertension. Additionally, excessive volume load may lead to heart failure.

3. Gastrointestinal discomfort: The retention of uremic toxins affects the patient's digestive function, potentially causing abdominal distension, decreased appetite, nausea, and vomiting.

4. Fatigue: Patients with uremia may experience fatigue, which may be related to anemia and acidosis.

5. Dyspnea: Uremia may lead to pulmonary edema, affecting respiratory function, resulting in symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest tightness.

6. Skin itching: Mainly caused by the retention of toxins in the body, stimulating the nerve endings of the skin.

7. Anemia: Renal anemia can cause patients' skin and mucous membranes to appear pale, losing their original complexion, accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue and dizziness.

8. Electrolyte imbalance: Due to the decreased function of water excretion caused by uremia, electrolyte imbalance may occur, manifesting as hyperkalemia or hypocalcemia.

Patients with uremia should pay attention to diet management in daily life, strictly limiting salt intake, adopting a low-salt, low-fat diet, controlling protein intake, and appropriately supplementing with high-quality proteins such as lean meat, eggs, and fish. Additionally, patients should rest adequately, avoid overexertion, and maintain sufficient sleep.