Feet and leg swelling might be an important sign of underlying kidney disorders. While various factors such as cardiac issues, liver failure, and severe protein loss from the gut can contribute to Edema, kidney dysfunction significantly plays a role in a fluid imbalance within the body.
The kidneys play a pivotal role in regulating salt, protein, and water balance. The body retains more water and salt when kidney function declines, leading to Edema in the extremities. The hormonal axis involved in this process includes angiotensin, aldosterone, and ADH (vasopressin), that is often responsible for regulating water balance. Kidney damage disrupts this balance, resulting in positive fluid retention and noticeable swelling, especially in the feet.
Another early sign of kidney disease is Proteinuria, marked by significant albumin loss through the kidneys. This can manifest as nephrotic syndrome, characterized by low albumin levels and widespread fluid retention.
Insufficient albumin reduces osmotic pressures in veins, causing fluid to seep into subcutaneous tissues, leading to Edema in the legs and feet. It’s essential to differentiate kidney-related Edema from other potential causes, such as cardiac or liver issues, protein loss in the gut, or varicose veins.
Monitoring for additional symptoms like puffiness around the eyes and swelling in the face, especially during the morning, can further strengthen the suspicion of kidney involvement.
Early detection and intervention for kidney disorders are crucial in managing these conditions and preventing further complications associated with fluid imbalance and Edema.
For individuals at risk of kidney disease, especially those with diabetes, hypertension, heart conditions, liver ailments, cancer, kidney issues, kidney stones, and recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), it is strongly recommended to undergo a series of simple tests for early diagnosis.
Regular screening for these high-risk groups and the general population becomes essential after the age of 40. The key diagnostic tests include assessing factors such as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), urea levels, protein levels, creatinine ratio, urine analysis, and kidney ultrasound known as USG KUB (kidney ureter bladder).
