12/11/2025
🤯Headaches are a symptom of chronic kidney disease that can be caused by a buildup of toxins, high blood pressure, or changes in blood and fluid balance, particularly during dialysis. Headaches can also be a side effect of medications used to treat CKD or its complications, such as statins.
Causes of headaches with CKD🤕
🦠Toxic buildup: As kidneys fail, toxins that are normally filtered out of the blood can build up in the brain, leading to headaches.
🩺High blood pressure: CKD is often linked with high blood pressure, which can cause severe, throbbing headaches due to increased pressure inside the skull.
🩸Dialysis: Headaches are common among those on dialysis due to changes in blood pressure and electrolyte balance that occur during the treatment.
💊Medication side effects: Some common medications for CKD and its complications, like statins, can have headaches as a side effect.
Other conditions: A person with CKD might also experience other conditions that cause headaches, such as migraines, or complications from the flu.
What to do❓
🩺Consult a doctor: If you have CKD and are experiencing frequent or severe headaches, it is essential to consult with your doctor to determine the cause and find the right treatment.
💊Discuss pain relief: Talk to your doctor about which pain relievers are safe for you. Some common over-the-counter pain relievers, such as NSAIDs (like ibuprofen), are not recommended for people with CKD, so it is crucial to get guidance before taking any medication. Paracetamol is often a safer option, but always check with your doctor first.
Please visit myhsn.co.uk for more CKD information