Uremia is a clinical syndrome characterized by elevated blood urea levels. It is based on metabolic abnormalities, fluid imbalance, electrolytes and hormones associated with the deterioration of renal function.
Uremia is more common in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially in the later stages of CKD or in acute kidney damage if the loss of kidney function is rapid. Urea itself has both direct and indirect toxic effects on a number of tissues.
Urea is synthesized in the liver and is the end product of protein metabolism. It is transmitted from the liver through the blood to the kidneys, where it is excreted in the urine. However, when kidney function is impaired, waste products and toxins such as creatinine and urea accumulate in the blood and cannot be effectively filtered and removed. If uremia is left untreated, this condition is life-threatening.
Symptoms:
Tingling and numbness of the hands and feet – neuropathy
General fatigue and low energy
Nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite
High blood pressure
Swelling of the ankles
Dry skin and itching
More frequent urination
Chronic kidney disease and factors leading to kidney failure and uremia are:
Congenital anomalies of the kidneys
Polycystic kidneys
Diabetic nephropathy
Congestive heart failure and arrhythmias
Chronic pyelonephritis
Kidney stones, enlarged prostate
Taking certain medications and corticosteroids