Hemolytic uremic syndrome: Symptoms and Signs
The following are the most common symptoms of hemolytic uremic syndrome. However, each one may experience symptoms differently.
The early symptoms of HUS frequently last from 1 to 15 days, gastroenteritis occurs with abdominal cramping, vomiting and profuse bloody, watery diarrhea, and may include symptoms such as the following:
- Dehydration
- Weakness
- Lethargy
- Electrolyte imbalances
Severe problems in the bowel and colon may develop in some cases. In these cases, even if the digestive symptoms are no longer present, later developing symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Decreased consciousness
- Low or no urine output
- Small, unexplained bruises or bleeding from the nose and mouth
- Paleness
- Skin rash that looks like fine red spots (petechia)
- Yellow skin (jaundice)
The children with HUS will develop acute kidney failure. With kidney failure, the child’s urine output decreases. The urine may also appear red. Urine formation slows because the damaged red blood cells clog the tiny blood vessels in the kidneys, making them work harder to remove wastes and extra fluid from the blood. The body’s inability to rid itself of excess fluid and wastes may in turn cause high blood pressure or swelling of the face, hands, feet, or entire body.
If the people have the symptoms such unexplained bruises, unusual bleeding, swollen limbs or generalized swelling, extreme fatigue, or decreased urine output, or a child who goes 12 hours without urinating should consult physician for a diagnosis.