If your child shows any of the following symptoms, talk with your pediatrician—he or she knows your child and is the best person to test for specific kidney abnormalities that can point to either chronic or acute kidney disease.
Warning signs that could indicate the beginning stages of kidney dysfunction (also referred to as renal dysfunction) may include:
- Headaches, nosebleeds, blurred vision. These symptoms may indicate an unusual rise in blood pressure (hypertension) which is often associated with kidney dysfunction.
- Bedwetting (enuresis). If your child is having “accidents” in ways or at an age he or she usually doesn’t, there may be a problem with the kidneys.
- Stunted growth. If you child remains unusually short (below your pediatrician’s standard ranges for any particular age), it could indicate kidney dysfunction.
- Poor school performance, reduced ability to concentrate. Sometimes a child with a disruption in normal kidney function can have trouble concentrating, resulting in an unusual drop in his or her performance in school and other areas.
- Dark urine, unusual tiredness, or bodily swelling. Extreme fatigue, bodily swelling, red or black/brown urine (hematuria) may be signs of kidney troubles. Consult your pediatrician if you notice any of these symptoms.
- Recurrent urinary tract infections. You will be seeing your pediatrician for these, and he or she may test for low red blood cell count (anemia) or high blood pressure (hypertension) which could indicate kidney problems.
If you notice or suspect any of these symptoms in your child, consult your pediatrician immediately. He or she will be able to determine if the symptoms may indicate problems with your child’s kidneys.