What causes uremia and what are its symptoms?
Apr 23, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xinju
Introduction
Uremia may be caused by conditions such as hypertension, chronic nephritis, and diabetic nephropathy, with symptoms varying depending on the underlying cause. Hypertension, chronic nephritis, and diabetic nephropathy are common causes of uremia. The pathogenic mechanisms of these diseases involve gradual impairment of kidney function, a decline in glomerular filtration rate, and the subsequent accumulation of toxins and metabolic waste in the body.
Uremia may be caused by factors such as hypertension, chronic nephritis, and diabetic nephropathy, with varying symptoms depending on the underlying cause. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Hypertension
Hypertension is one of the major risk factors for uremia. Long-term high blood pressure can damage the glomeruli, leading to glomerulosclerosis, decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and gradual decline in kidney function. Additionally, hypertension can cause small vessel disease and circulatory disturbances, further worsening kidney damage and ultimately resulting in uremia. Common symptoms include general fatigue, arrhythmia, headache, and hematuria.
2. Chronic Nephritis
Chronic nephritis is one of the most common causes of uremia. After the onset of chronic nephritis, the glomerular filtration rate gradually declines and tubular reabsorption function becomes impaired, resulting in excessive loss of proteins, water, electrolytes, and other substances through urine. Moreover, chronic nephritis disrupts the metabolism of waste products, glucose, and acid-base balance within the kidneys, accelerating renal function loss and eventually progressing to uremia. Severe cases may present with generalized edema and foamy urine.
3. Diabetic Nephropathy
Diabetic nephropathy refers to kidney disease caused by diabetes and is among the most common causes of uremia. The pathological mechanisms of diabetic nephropathy include impaired glomerular filtration, reduced tubular reabsorption, and weakened tubular secretion. As the condition progressively worsens, diabetic nephropathy leads to renal failure and ultimately results in uremia. Patients commonly experience dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing.
In summary, hypertension, chronic nephritis, and diabetic nephropathy are common causes of uremia. The pathogenesis of uremia in these conditions involves progressive kidney damage, declining glomerular filtration rate, accumulation of toxins and metabolic waste in the body, various clinical manifestations, and eventual multi-organ dysfunction. Therefore, adopting a healthy lifestyle and actively preventing and treating these diseases are crucial for preventing uremia. Regular health check-ups to detect kidney disease early are also extremely important.
