Kidney Deficiency: Symptoms and Causes Explained

Kidney deficiency?

Hello, doctor.
Last winter, due to the cold weather, I often held my urine until morning even when I felt the urge to urinate at night.
After the New Year, I started experiencing frequent urination, reduced urinary flow, a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying, discomfort in the lower abdomen, and lower back pain.
I consulted a general internist who performed X-rays and urine tests, but nothing abnormal was found.
The physician suggested that I might have an overactive bladder and prescribed Pipoxolan and Stomacine, but I did not see any improvement.
Although it is bothersome, I did not seek further medical attention since it wasn't severe.
I once watched a healthcare program on television (it seemed to be traditional Chinese medicine) that discussed kidney issues and listed symptoms associated with poor kidney function, which coincidentally matched my situation.
This led me to suspect that there might be a problem with my kidneys.
Additionally, I have noticed that my hairline on both sides is gradually receding, my hands and feet are often cold and prone to sweating, and occasionally I feel weak and fatigued.

If this is the case, what could be causing kidney deficiency? Is it related to my irregular lifestyle, stress, a heavy diet, and frequent masturbation? Perhaps it is a personal bias, but at the age of twenty-nine, it is hard to imagine having these issues that typically arise later in life.
I would like to hear your opinion, doctor.

Sam, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/07/10

Dr. Ding Hanxiang reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear Sam,
Based on your current symptoms of frequent urination, lower back pain, and cold extremities, it appears you may be experiencing a condition related to kidney Yang deficiency.
The kidneys are considered the foundation of innate vitality, and their depletion can lead to various symptoms.
However, it is essential to gather more information through the four diagnostic methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine: observation, listening, inquiry, and pulse examination, to assess your constitution accurately.
I recommend that you consult with a licensed Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Ding Han-Hsiang
Attending Physician, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2009/07/10

More Info

Understanding kidney deficiency and its symptoms is crucial for maintaining overall health. Kidney deficiency, often referred to in traditional Chinese medicine as "kidney yang deficiency" or "kidney yin deficiency," can manifest through various symptoms, many of which you have described.

Symptoms of Kidney Deficiency
1. Frequent Urination: This can occur due to an overactive bladder or reduced bladder capacity, often linked to kidney health.

2. Weak Urine Stream: A diminished force in urination can indicate underlying issues with the urinary tract or bladder.

3. Lower Abdominal Discomfort: This may arise from bladder irritation or kidney issues.

4. Lower Back Pain: The kidneys are located in the lower back area, and pain can signify kidney strain or dysfunction.

5. Cold Extremities and Sweating: These symptoms can be associated with poor circulation or hormonal imbalances, often linked to kidney health.

6. Fatigue: A general sense of tiredness can be a sign of kidney deficiency, as the kidneys play a role in energy metabolism.

Causes of Kidney Deficiency
Kidney deficiency can stem from various lifestyle factors and health conditions:
1. Poor Diet: A diet high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats can strain the kidneys. Consuming excessive processed foods can lead to kidney issues over time.

2. Irregular Sleep Patterns: Lack of sleep or poor-quality sleep can affect kidney function, as the body repairs itself during rest.

3. Stress: Chronic stress can lead to hormonal imbalances that may impact kidney health.

4. Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can contribute to poor circulation and kidney function.

5. Substance Use: Excessive alcohol consumption and recreational drug use can harm the kidneys.

6. Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and urinary tract infections can lead to kidney damage over time.

The Role of Lifestyle Choices
Your mention of irregular sleep, high-stress levels, and dietary habits suggests that these factors could contribute to your symptoms. Additionally, frequent masturbation is generally considered a normal activity, but if it leads to feelings of fatigue or other health concerns, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider.

Seeking Medical Advice
Given your symptoms and concerns, it is advisable to seek further evaluation from a healthcare professional, preferably a nephrologist or urologist. They may recommend:
- Urinalysis: To check for signs of infection, protein, or blood in the urine.

- Blood Tests: To assess kidney function through creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels.

- Imaging Studies: Such as an ultrasound or CT scan to visualize kidney structure and function.

Conclusion
While your symptoms may not seem severe, they warrant further investigation to rule out any underlying kidney issues. Kidney health is vital for overall well-being, and early detection of any problems can lead to better management and outcomes. Maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, ensuring adequate sleep, and staying active are essential steps in supporting kidney function. If you have concerns about your kidney health, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Diabetes: Kidney Atrophy and Uremia Symptoms Explained

Hello, Dr. Lee. 1. Why does diabetes cause renal atrophy and uremia? 2. What are the symptoms of uremia?

Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: In response to your two questions: 1. Metabolic factors and hemodynamic changes are the primary causes affecting diabetic nephropathy. The effects of hyperglycemia alter the feedback control of the glomeruli and renal tubules, leading to abnormal glucose metabolic path...

Understanding Kidney Deficiency: Symptoms and Impacts on Health

Recently, I have noticed a significant decline in my physical fitness. Whenever I am outside, I sweat excessively. People say that sweating is normal, but the amount I sweat seems to be somewhat abnormal, leading to a considerable loss of fluids. I am unsure if this is related to...

Dr. Chen Qiunan reply Urology
Sweating and kidney function are not directly related; however, after significant fluid loss, it is important to rehydrate. A lack of water in the body can lead to fatigue and may indirectly affect kidney function. If problems persist, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation a...

Understanding Symptoms of Kidney Issues: Fatigue and Dark Circles

Hello doctor, if I often feel weakness in my lower body, get easily fatigued, and have dark circles under my eyes, could these be signs of kidney problems? Additionally, what causes kidney dysfunction? Thank you.

Dr. Chen Qiunan reply Urology
Hello Mr. B, the symptoms you mentioned are not commonly associated with kidney diseases; they are considered non-specific symptoms that can occur in many conditions. Typical symptoms of kidney diseases include fever, back pain, proteinuria, hematuria, hypertension, polyuria, or ...

Understanding Uremia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

What is uremia? What symptoms does it have? Is treatment difficult?

Dr. Tang Jieru reply Internal Medicine
Hello Ms. Jingyi: Uremia is the end stage of kidney disease, which refers to the kidneys' inability to excrete metabolic toxins (BUN, creatinine) from the body. As a result, there is an excessive accumulation of BUN and creatinine in the body, leading to a series of symptoms...