people with kidney disease.
Changes in fluid balance and electrolytes can influence nerve and muscle excitability.
Dialysis itself can sometimes be associated with muscle cramps, partly because fluid is removed from the body over a relatively short period.
However, cramps are not specific to kidney disease.
If someone develops frequent, severe or unexplained cramps, the cause should be evaluated rather than assuming the kidneys are responsible.
## The Kidneys, Acid-Base Balance and Muscles
Another major kidney function is maintaining the body’s acid-base balance.
Cells constantly produce acids as part of metabolism.
The kidneys help remove acid and regulate bicarbonate, an important component of the body’s buffering system.
When kidney function declines, the body may have difficulty eliminating enough acid.
This can contribute to metabolic acidosis.
Persistent metabolic acidosis can have effects on bone and muscle metabolism.
In chronic kidney
