Woman in Her 20s Discovers Allergic Symptoms Were Actually Chronic Kidney Disease
This article details the story of Ellen Sworbrik, a 28-year-old woman from Chesire, UK, who initially dismissed symptoms of swelling as allergic rhinitis. Though, these symptoms, coupled with severe fatigue, frequent urination, and blurred vision, ultimately led to a diagnosis of stage four chronic kidney disease. She received a kidney transplant from her mother in May 2025.Her condition was caused by IgA nephropathy, a disease where abnormal accumulation of the IgA protein causes inflammation.
Key Takeaways & Details about Chronic Kidney Disease:
Delayed Diagnosis is Common: The article emphasizes that chronic kidney disease frequently enough goes undetected in its early stages due to subtle or non-specific symptoms.
Symptoms to Watch For: Be cautious of recurring symptoms like:
Facial and ankle swelling
Unexplained fatigue
Changes in urination (frequency, amount, foam)
Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Nausea or loss of appetite
Causes of Chronic Kidney Disease: Common causes include:
Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Diabetes
Kidney infection or inflammation (glomerulonephritis, pyelonephritis)
Kidney stones
Certain medications
Prevalence in Korea: As of 2022, 8% of Korean adults have chronic kidney disease, rising to 22% in older age groups.
Serious Complications: Chronic kidney disease increases the risk of death from cardiovascular complications and is frequently enough accompanied by other chronic illnesses like cancer and heart disease.
Early Detection is Crucial: While arduous to treat, early diagnosis and active management can slow the progression of the disease and reduce the burden on the kidneys.
In essence, the article serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to be aware of potential kidney disease symptoms and seek medical attention if they experience persistent or concerning changes in their health.
