What is the hallmark symptom of chronic kidney disease?

The hallmark symptom of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is fatigue. This fatigue arises due to a combination of factors associated with kidney dysfunction that are often overlooked. In CKD, the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste products effectively, leading to a build-up of toxins in the blood. This accumulation contributes to the fatigue that many patients report.

Moreover, anemia is a common complication of CKD, primarily due to the kidneys' decreased production of erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow. Anemia further exacerbates feelings of tiredness and lack of energy, making fatigue a prominent feature in individuals with CKD.

While swelling in the legs, shortness of breath, and frequent urination can also signify kidney problems, they are not considered hallmark symptoms of chronic kidney disease. Swelling may indicate fluid retention, shortness of breath can result from other cardiovascular issues or fluid overload, and frequent urination is more indicative of acute kidney problems or other urinary tract conditions. Therefore, the association of fatigue with the systemic effects of kidney failure solidifies its status as the key symptom of chronic kidney disease.