5. Swelling in Body Parts: Don’t Overlook the Edema
Swelling in different parts of the body, particularly the hands, feet, and face, can also signify elevated protein levels in the urine. Known medically as edema, this swelling occurs when proteins leak into the urine and the kidneys fail to maintain a balance between fluids and minerals. This imbalance triggers fluid retention in the body, causing swelling.
It starts subtly. Perhaps you notice your rings are a bit tight or that your shoes are suddenly uncomfortable. Gradually, the swelling becomes more noticeable. The skin may also feel stretched, and you may experience some discomfort or even pain in the swollen areas.
A 2017 study in the International Journal of Nephrology highlighted that edema was often a late-stage symptom of chronic kidney disease, appearing in almost 75% of the studied patients who had elevated protein levels in their urine. In such cases, immediate medical attention is crucial to mitigate the risk of irreversible damage to the kidneys. (5)
