- fatigue
- Healthy kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin (EPO), which instructs the body to make red blood cells. When the kidneys begin to fail, EPO decreases and the body produces fewer red blood cells. A decrease in red blood cells can cause anemia, which is caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain. You may feel tired, dizzy or sleepy. You may be more mentally tired than usual or have problems with memory or concentration.
