Final answer:
Excess fluid retention due to kidney failure can lead to anemia, lethargy, edema, metabolic acidosis, and pulmonary edema, among other symptoms. Signs also include abnormal urinary patterns, such as excessive urination or oliguria, and general symptoms like a loss of appetite and fatigue.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the kidneys fail, the body retains excess fluid, leading to a condition called hypervolemia. This retention can manifest through various signs and symptoms, reflecting the severity of kidney function impairment. Some of these symptoms include anemia, weakness, lethargy, and shortness of breath. Patients may also suffer from widespread edema (swelling), metabolic acidosis, rising potassium levels, and heart arrhythmias. Additionally, a serious complication that can arise is pulmonary edema, which is the accumulation of excess fluid in the lungs, resulting in difficulty breathing and potentially chest pain.
Excess fluid retention is also associated with changes in urinary patterns, such as excessive urination or oliguria (reduced urine output). Renal failure can also trigger metabolic disturbances like metabolic alkalosis or uremia, which is characterized by high levels of urea in the blood. Individuals might also experience a loss of appetite and fatigue, which contributes to the overall decline in their well-being.