Ammonia Breath
When urea builds up in the body and blood, it can lead to a distinct ammonia smell on a person’s breath. This accumulation of waste products can also have an impact on the taste of food, causing it to taste different. Additionally, individuals may experience a metallic taste in their mouth, similar to the sensation of drinking iron. As a result, their appetite diminishes, leading to a noticeable decrease in food intake and subsequent weight loss. In fact, before commencing dialysis, it is not uncommon for someone with kidney failure to lose up to ten pounds.
Additional Symptoms of Kidney Failure
Kidney failure can manifest in various other symptoms apart from the ones mentioned earlier. Some individuals may experience pain in the flank area of their back, which can be attributed to fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys. Due to the presence of fluid on the lungs and the occurrence of anemia, inadequate oxygen supply to the brain may lead to dizziness, confusion, memory-related issues, and difficulty concentrating. Another common symptom of end-stage kidney disease is feeling cold, even in warm environments.