What Are Symptoms of Kidney Shutdown?
Symptoms of kidney failure, which indicates the kidneys are shutting down, include decreased sensation in the hands and feet, fatigue, high blood pressure, bloody stools and changes in mood or mental status, explains MedlinePlus. Patients also experience flank pain between the hips and ribs, hand tremors, nausea or vomiting that lasts for a few days and prolonged bleeding.
Additional symptoms of kidney failure include slow and sluggish movements, shortness of breath, a metallic taste in the mouth or breath odor, seizures and nosebleeds, according to MedlinePlus. Patients often experience swelling in the legs, ankles and feet when the kidneys are shutting down because the body is retaining fluid. Urination changes, such as excessive urinating at night or little to no urine, are also common during kidney failure. Some patients may bruise easily or experience persistent hiccups. Consultation with a medical professional is necessary if symptoms occur, as this condition can be life threatening.
Treatment for kidney failure includes medication to control blood potassium levels, antibiotics to ward off infections and a diet that is low in protein, salt and potassium and high in carbohydrates, explains MedlinePlus. Physicians commonly recommend dialysis, a procedure that rids the body of extra salt, water and harmful wastes.
