Signs of Poor Kidney Function in the Elderly

Does kidney function decrease with age?

Kidney function naturally declines with age, especially after adults reach the age of 60. In this post, we’ll review what you need to know about failing kidneys in the elderly. Topics will include:

• The relationship between renal failure in old age
• Symptoms of renal failure in elderly
• Causes of kidney failure in elderly people
• How to improve kidney function in elderly

The Relationship Between Aging and Kidney Failure in the Elderly

As we age, our kidneys naturally become less efficient at filtering waste from the blood. They may also have more difficulty balancing fluids, responding to illness or dehydration, and processing medications. These changes are a normal part of aging, but they can make older adults more vulnerable to kidney disease and kidney failure, especially when other health conditions are present.

Next, let’s examine renal failure symptoms in elderly.

Symptoms of Kidney Disease in Elderly

There are numerous signs of renal failure in elderly. Signs of poor kidney function in the elderly include:

• Loss of appetite or reduced interest in food
• Muscle cramps, twitching, or weakness
• Nausea, vomiting, or an upset stomach
• Ongoing tiredness, weakness, or lack of energy
• Difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Changes in urination, including how often or how much you urinate
• Chest discomfort caused by fluid buildup around the heart
• Shortness of breath caused by fluid buildup in the lungs
• High blood pressure that remains difficult to control
• Swelling in the feet, ankles, or legs
• Problems with focus, thinking, or mental clarity
• Persistent itching

Now that we know more about symptoms of kidney failure in elderly, let’s take a look at the causes of renal failure in older adults.

Causes of Kidney Malfunction in Elderly

Now that we know more about the causes and renal failure symptoms in elderly, let’s look at how to improve kidney function in older adults.

• Persistent or poorly controlled high blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Autoimmune disorders that can affect the kidneys, such as lupus, sarcoidosis, and Sjogren syndrome
• Genetic kidney conditions, including polycystic kidney disease
• Medicines that can damage the kidneys or affect kidney function, including lithium and frequent use of high-dose ibuprofen or other NSAIDs
• Ongoing problems that prevent urine from flowing normally, such as an enlarged prostate or urinary tract tumors
• Vesicoureteral reflux, which causes urine to travel from the bladder back toward the kidneys

Preventing Kidney Dysfunction in Elderly

As we age, preventing kidney dysfunction becomes paramount. Below are some methods to prevent kidney failure in older adults.

• Stay hydrated. Older adults may not feel thirsty as often, and aging kidneys are less able to conserve water. Drinking enough fluids can help prevent dehydration and kidney injury.
• Maintain a healthy weight. Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight can lower the risk of conditions that can contribute to kidney problems.
• Stay physically active. Regular physical activity can help support healthy blood pressure, blood sugar, and overall kidney function.
• Eat a balanced diet. Choose nutritious foods that are lower in sodium and avoid eating excessive amounts of protein, which can place additional demands on the kidneys.
• Control blood pressure and blood sugar. High blood pressure and diabetes are major causes of kidney disease, so it’s imperative to keep these levels within a healthy range.
• Use medications carefully. Some medicines can affect kidney function, particularly in older adults. Take medications as directed and talk with your healthcare provider before regularly using NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
• Avoid tobacco. Smoking and other tobacco products can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of kidney disease.
• Get regular checkups. Routine visits can help monitor kidney function as well as blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels.
• Treat infections promptly. Urinary tract infections and other infections can place additional stress on the kidneys, particularly in older adults.
• Take extra care during illness or hospitalization. Dehydration, changes in blood pressure, surgery, and certain medications can increase the risk of sudden kidney injury.

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