A grave misconception about Chronic Kidney Disease is that everyone will eventually need dialysis treatment. Making a few life-style changes and sticking to the medication prescribed by the doctor will slow down and can even stop further damage to the kidneys.

The kidneys play an important role in eliminating the wastes in our body and purifying the bloodstream. When they get damaged, this process takes a hit. Over time, if left undetected and not treated, the damage aggravates, and this is what is commonly referred to as chronic kidney disease. At its worst, it leads to kidney failure, which can prove fatal. However, before the disease advances to kidney failure, if it is diagnosed, there is scope for treatment through medicines, diet, and certain lifestyle changes.

CAUSES FOR CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE

The two main risk factors for chronic kidney disease or CKD are Diabetes and High Blood Pressure.

High blood sugar in the blood damages the filtering mechanism of the kidneys and in time the kidneys are unable to effectively filter out and eliminate wastes and extra fluids from the body. The first sign of kidney disease from diabetes is traces of albumin in the urine. Albumin is an essential protein and healthy kidneys will not let albumin from the blood pass into the urine. Hence, it is best that those with diabetes keep a check on their kidney function at regular intervals to prevent Diabetic Kidney Disease.

In the case of those with hypertension or high blood pressure, blood vessels in the kidneys get severely damaged affecting their proper functioning. Fluid build-up in the blood, increases blood pressure even more, setting off a vicious cycle.

Other factors that can affect kidney health and functioning are:

• – Genetic disorders such as: polycystic kidney disease, Alport syndrome
• – High doses of certain medication
• – Infections
• – Heart disease
• – Lead poisoning
• – Certain auto-immune conditions

CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE SYMPTOMS

The kidneys are a pair of small bean shaped organs at the base of the spine. However, they work so hard that often despite some amount of damage, the body continues to function fine. Some people are even able to lead a normal life with just one kidney. Such is the efficacy of the kidneys, and this is also why often the individual is oblivious to the fact that he/she may have kidney disease. The only way to know the presence and extent of damage is via a blood test. Symptoms arise only when the disease has progressed.

Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease include:

• Decreased hunger
• Increased or decreased urination
• Dry skin
• Body pains
• Itching or numbness
• Headaches / chest pain
• Tiredness

PROMOTE KIDNEY HEALTH

To protect the kidney from damage and to ensure their good health requires simple, healthy habits.

• Quit smoking and drinking
• Do not take over the counter pain medication without doctor’s consent
• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated
• Eat a diet rich in heart healthy food
• Minimize intake of salt and sugar
• Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy body weight
• If diabetic and/or prone to high BP, watch your diet and take the prescribed meds diligently
• Consult with your doctor on how often you need to do a Kidney Function Test

Being diagnosed with chronic kidney disease is not a death sentence. Another grave misconception about CKD is that everyone will eventually need dialysis treatment. Making a few life-style changes and sticking to the medication prescribed by the doctor will slow down and can even stop further damage to the kidneys.

Reviewed By:

DR.BALAMURUGAN.B

CONSULTANT – NEPHROLOGIST

MBBS, MD (GENERAL MEDICINE), DM (NEPHROLOGY)