“I have swollen ankle and pains in my flanks, so I am suspecting that I have chronic kidney disease.” the word comes from one person who uses our online service. Indeed, swelling and flank pain are common symptoms for those with Chronic Kidney Disease. However, does swelling always mean kidney damage? Now, let’s have a see.

Kidney Disease and Swelling

It is well known that our kidneys are important filtering organ which can help remove extra wastes and toxins as well as extra fluids from the body. However, when kidney is damaged by some factors, I’m afraid that your kidney cannot work effectively. In the condition, edema is relatively easy to occur. It has been reported that edema forms in patients with kidney disease for two reasons:

1. A heavy loss of protein in the urine.

2. Water-retention in the body due to impaired kidney function.

Well then, does swelling always mean chronic kidney disease?

To be frank, swelling can be caused by many factors and it does not always not indicate renal disease. Swelling occurs whenever the organs, skin or other parts of the body enlarge. It is typically the result of inflammation or a buildup of fluid. It can internally or it can affect your outer skin and muscles. A range of conditions can cause swelling like insect bits, rash, hives, injury, pregnancy, infection, hormonal changes, diabetes and so on.

Through the above analysis, we can see that although swelling can be caused by kidney disease, but not all edemas are caused by kidney damage. Therefore, to get the correct treatment, it is important to find out the underlying causes. If you have any trouble in dealing with your current conditions, please don’t hesitate to ask our kidney experts online or leave a message below directly, and we will do our best to help you.