Justin Pham, at the age of 30, received the devastating news that his kidney function was deteriorating to the point where he had kidney failure. He is now 32 and bravely shares his experience to help raise awareness for kidney disease. It affects millions in the United States. According to National Kidney Foundation. chronic kidney disease is a serious condition that affects large portions of the population. This highlights the importance of early diagnosis and proactive kidney management.
Early Warning Signs Of Kidney Disease
Justin was nine when he began having kidney problems. He underwent surgery to remove a part of both kidneys. In his 20s he noticed several symptoms which, upon reflection, were warning signs that chronic kidney diseases had begun. Early diagnosis can help to prevent kidney disease.
Common Symptoms:
- Rashes or persistent itching skin
- Morning leg cramps
- Constant stomachaches and vomiting
- Increased frequency, especially during the nighttime (nocturia).
- A urine that is foamy (a sign of possible proteinuria).
- Shortness of Breath
Pruritus or itchy skin is an unresolved symptom in kidney diseases. Waste products accumulate in the blood when kidneys are not filtering properly. The waste products in urine can cause a change to the skin’s physiology, causing itching. The itching is also linked to an inflammatory systemic state in individuals who have kidney disease. The early diagnosis and treatment of chronic renal disease may reduce the severity of these complications.
Justin at first dismissed these symptoms. The youth was my ally; I did not think that it would be serious. The bubbles I saw in my urine became a habit and I didn’t pay much attention to them. The challenge is to not attribute health concerns that may exist due to lifestyle or temporary discomfort.
Foamy urine This is especially noteworthy. Healthy kidneys remove waste, while keeping essential substances in the bloodstream like protein. A damaged kidney may cause excess urine protein. proteinuria. According to Fresenius Kidney CareWhile not a condition in itself, proteinuria is a sign of kidney disease. Those who notice foamy, persistent urine are advised to consult with a medical professional.
Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease
Justin’s worries grew when he began to experience increasing shortness in breath. He initially attributed it to an infection with COVID-19. The blood tests and other diagnostic procedures revealed a more severe illness: End-Stage Kidney Disease, also called Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease. His kidneys failed to function properly and this was the diagnosis. It is important to diagnose kidney disease early and implement appropriate treatment strategies in order to improve the patient’s outcome.
He did not know that the high blood pressure in his family was a major risk factor of kidney failure. It is second only to diabetic complications. High blood pressure damages the kidney blood vessels, affecting their ability to effectively filter waste.
It is important to note that the word “you” means someone. National Kidney Foundation ESKD is defined as kidney function below 15 percent of the normal. In this case, either dialysis (or a kidney donation) is necessary to maintain life. ESKD increases heart disease risk, highlighting the link between cardiovascular and kidney health.
Kidney Disease and Heart Failure
Justin developed heart failure-like symptoms after being diagnosed with kidney disease.
Heart Failure Symptoms
- Hands and feet swollen (edema).
- Chest pain
- Consistent fatigue
- Reduced appetite
Justin explained, “At first, I believed everything to be kidney related, but not heart.” The doctors told me that I had heart failure. One organ can fail, and another will follow. The interconnectedness between organ systems is highlighted, as well as the possible domino effects of chronic disease.
Coexistence between kidney failure and heart failure occurs quite often. Kidney failure can cause fluid retention which increases the workload of the heart. This can lead to heart failure when combined with the stretching that occurs in the heart muscles due to fluid overload.
Heart problems can be caused by abnormal electrolyte concentrations, like high potassium levels (hyperkalemia), which are often seen with kidney disease. Maintaining an electrolyte-balance is essential for managing kidney diseases and maintaining cardiovascular health.
A Positive Outlook and Ongoing Treatment
Justin is currently undergoing 10 hours a day of peritoneal (PD), a procedure that filters blood using the lining in the abdomen. Justin is also waiting for a kidney and has a scheduled heart procedure. Justin is optimistic despite these serious health issues and uses TikTok as a platform to promote kidney disease awareness and early detection.
His advice to young people: “Always see your doctor, and always think about health.” “Don’t take it for granted—just because you are young doesn’t mean it can’t happen to you.”
Justin offers a message that is full of optimism and strength to anyone facing kidney disease: “It doesn’t mean death.” Don’t give up. You can do more than you might think.