😴 Fatigue? It Might Be a Kidney Signal
Feeling tired all the time? Most people blame it on stress or hot weather. But persistent fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest can actually be a hidden sign from your kidneys. Especially if you experience the following:
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Constant tiredness
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Loss of appetite
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Swollen face or puffy eyes
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Swollen feet or ankles
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Feeling breathless or sluggish
These may indicate chronic kidney disease (CKD) in its early stages.
🩸 Why Creatinine Levels Matter
During a routine blood test, you might notice your creatinine level. Creatinine is a waste product filtered by your kidneys. If your kidneys aren’t working well, creatinine builds up in your blood.
But here’s the catch:
Creatinine alone doesn’t give the full picture.
That’s why doctors calculate your eGFR (estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate)—a much more accurate way to assess kidney health.
📊 What is eGFR?
eGFR measures how much blood your kidneys filter each minute. It’s calculated using your creatinine level, age, sex, and body size.
| eGFR Value | Kidney Function Status |
|---|---|
| 90+ | Normal |
| 60–89 | Mild decrease |
| 30–59 | Moderate decrease |
| 15–29 | Severe decrease |
| Below 15 | Kidney failure |
If your eGFR is below 60, you should consult a kidney specialist.
🚨 Who Should Be Concerned?
You’re at higher risk of kidney problems if you have:
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High blood pressure
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Diabetes
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Heart disease or high cholesterol
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Family history of kidney disease
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Age over 65
🏥 Kidney Health Check at Suan Internal Medicine Clinic
At Suan Internal Medicine Clinic (1396 Dongil-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul):
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✅ No reservation needed – Same-day consultation and testing
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✅ Immediate creatinine and eGFR testing
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✅ Specialized care for patients with diabetes and hypertension
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✅ Additional tests like kidney ultrasound and urine ACR if needed
💡 Tips for Healthy Kidneys
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Stay hydrated
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Reduce salty and processed foods
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Avoid overusing painkillers and supplements
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Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly
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Get regular blood tests if you’re in a risk group
📌 In Conclusion
Persistent fatigue, appetite loss, or facial swelling?
Don’t ignore these signs. Your kidneys might be silently struggling.
At Suan Internal Medicine Clinic, you can easily check your creatinine and eGFR levels without waiting. A simple test today could protect your kidney health for years to come.
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