Sarabhai vs Sarabhai actor Satish Shah dies at 74 due to kidney failure (Picture Credit: Instagram)

The veteran actor Satish Shah passed away at 74, leaving many sad. The alleged reason behind his demise is stated to kidney failure. Reportedly, the actor had been battling kidney-related issues for quite some time. The news was confirmed by filmmaker Ashoke Pandit wrote on social media, "Sad and shocked to inform you that our dear friend and a great actor, Satish Shah has expired a few hours ago due to kidney failure. He was rushed to Hinduja Hospital, where he breathed his last. A great loss to our industry. Om Shanti."

Ramesh Kadatala, Shah's personal assistant (for 30 years), told PTI that, "It seems he passed away from a heart attack; however, we are awaiting the final reports from the doctor about the reason behind his death."

While we need to wait till a confirmed report is out that can state the cause of his exact death, what goes without saying is that there has been a surge in the cases of kidney failure, This is why it is important to understand the symptoms so that the condition can be treated in time. Moneycontrol's team had spoken to Dr P. S. Vali, Senior Consultant Nephrologist (Head of the Department, Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology, Hyderabad, to understand the silent symptoms that point towards kidneys not performing to their optimum level.

Also read: Going for your morning walk in the park? Wait! Delhi-based pulmonologist says it's a terrible idea

The doctor had said the symptoms of kidney failure don't show until nearly 90 percent of kidney function is lost. This is why a lot of people come to know of the situation when it's too late.

Listed below are 8 silent symptoms that suggest kidneys are not functioning well:

Swelling of legs and facial puffiness: When the kidneys fail to excrete excess water, it accumulates in the body, causing swelling in the legs and puffiness around the eyes.

High blood pressure in young adults: Failing kidneys release chemicals that trigger high blood pressure, often resistant to conventional treatments.

Foamy urine: While mild foaming is normal, excessive foam could indicate protein leakage, a sign of kidney damage.

Cola-coloured urine: Dark, tea-coloured urine is a red flag, suggesting serious kidney damage or blood leakage into the urine.

Frequent urination at night: Occasional night-time urination is normal, but if it becomes frequent, it may indicate early kidney dysfunction.

Also read | How to keep your kidney healthy: 10 simple rules to prevent kidney problems

Persistent vomiting: Unexplained vomiting lasting several days can occur due to rising toxin levels in the blood caused by kidney failure.

Intractable itching: Severe, persistent itching that doesn't respond to treatment is often linked to the buildup of toxins in kidney failure.

Blood in urine: This is never a normal occurrence and should be immediately investigated, as it may indicate infections, kidney stones, or even kidney disease.

FAQs on symptoms of kidney failure:

1. What are the early signs of kidney failure?

Early symptoms are often subtle and may include fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, swelling in the feet or ankles, and reduced urine output. Many people don't notice symptoms until the kidneys are significantly damaged.

2. How can I tell if my kidneys are not working properly?

Common signs include persistent puffiness around the eyes, muscle cramps, itchy skin, dark or foamy urine, and high blood pressure. Blood and urine tests are needed to confirm kidney function.

3. Does kidney failure cause pain?

Kidney failure itself may not always cause pain, but some people feel discomfort or pressure in the lower back or sides (flank area), especially if an infection or kidney stones are present.

4. Can swelling be a symptom of kidney failure?

Yes. When kidneys can't properly remove waste and excess fluid, it can lead to swelling (edema) in the legs, ankles, hands, or face. This happens because the body retains salt and water.

5. When should I see a doctor for possible kidney problems?

Seek medical advice if you experience persistent fatigue, changes in urination, unexplained swelling, or high blood pressure. Early diagnosis through simple blood (creatinine) and urine tests can prevent further kidney damage.