Chronic Kidney Disease Treatment

Acute kidney disease is a sudden and temporary loss of kidney function, often caused by an injury or infection, and it can resolve with appropriate treatment. Chronic kidney disease, on the other hand, is a long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose their function over time, usually due to underlying health conditions or progressive damage.

Risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD) include high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, smoking, family history of kidney disease, older age, certain ethnic backgrounds, and conditions such as heart disease and autoimmune disorders. Regular monitoring and addressing these risk factors can help prevent or manage CKD effectively.

Signs of chronic kidney disease (CKD) may include fatigue, swelling in the legs or ankles, decreased urine output, changes in urination frequency, persistent itching, high blood pressure, fluid retention, electrolyte imbalances, and anemia. However, early CKD may not present noticeable symptoms, emphasizing the importance of regular screenings for early detection.

Common causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD) include high blood pressure, diabetes, glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units), polycystic kidney disease (a genetic condition causing cysts in the kidneys), prolonged use of certain medications, urinary tract obstruction, recurrent kidney infections, and autoimmune diseases such as lupus.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is diagnosed through blood and urine tests to assess kidney function and measure levels of waste products and electrolytes. Imaging tests such as ultrasounds or CT scans may be done to evaluate kidney structure. A kidney biopsy may be performed in some cases to determine the underlying cause.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is classified into five stages based on the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which assesses kidney function. The stages range from Stage 1 (mild kidney damage) to Stage 5 (kidney failure). Each stage reflects different levels of kidney function and helps guide treatment and management decisions.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can affect multiple organs and overall health. It increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, bone disorders, anemia, electrolyte imbalances, and compromised immune function. CKD can also lead to fluid retention, hypertension, and accumulation of waste products in the body, impacting overall well-being and quality of life. Proper management is essential to minimize these effects.

You should seek care for chronic kidney disease (CKD) if you experience symptoms like fatigue, swelling, changes in urination, or have risk factors such as diabetes or high blood pressure. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation, diagnosis, and appropriate management to slow disease progression and preserve kidney function.