10 Alarm-Ringing Signs Your Body Might Be Battling Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome

7. Decreased Urine Output

Hemolytic uremic syndrome often impairs kidney function, leading to decreased urine output or even oliguria (very little urine production). The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood and excreting them as urine. In HUS, damage to the small blood vessels in the kidneys causes reduced filtration efficiency, leading to an accumulation of toxins in the bloodstream. Patients may notice that their urine is darker, cloudier, or contains blood, all of which indicate impaired kidney function. Decreased urine output can also lead to swelling in the lower extremities and around the eyes due to fluid retention. Addressing this symptom may require interventions such as intravenous fluids, dialysis, or medications to support kidney function and encourage urine production.

8. Bruising Easily

Easy bruising is a common symptom in patients with hemolytic uremic syndrome due to a low platelet count, a condition known as thrombocytopenia. Platelets are essential for blood clotting and preventing bleeding. In HUS, platelet destruction or depletion occurs as they become trapped in small blood clots within the blood vessels, leaving fewer available for normal clotting processes. This results in spontaneous bruising or bruises that appear after minor bumps or injuries. In severe cases, petechiae (small red or purple spots) may also develop on the skin. This symptom is a warning sign of the systemic impact of HUS on the body’s clotting mechanisms and requires prompt medical attention to prevent severe bleeding complications.