Each year in March, World Kidney Day is marked across the world to raise awareness of kidney failure.
This year, the Renal Unit at Wrexham Maelor Hospital is trying to help spread as much awareness as possible, as there are currently up to 7.2 million people across the UK living with the disease.
The Wrexham renal unit is made up of a number of teams that help support patients with pre-treatment, as well as patients that are currently having treatment and patients after transplant. They also work alongside a number of charities that offer support to people suffering with kidney failure.
So how do you spot kidney disease? Early detection and treatment helps slow the life-changing effects of the disease, and symptoms can include:
- Extra tiredness
- Swollen ankles, feet or hands
- Persistently puffy eyes or face
- Blood or froth in your wee
- Needing to wee more often
- Itchy skin
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feeling or being sick
- Weight loss or loss of appetite
- Shortness of breath
- Discomfort in the lower back, side or abdomen
For more information, visit the World Kidney Day website.
