According to the National Kidney Foundation, there are 37 million American adults living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and millions of others are at increased risk. Kidney disease develops when the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste, toxins, and excess fluids from the body. The disease is called “chronic” because the damage to your kidneys happens slowly over a long period of time. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can also cause other health problems.
What are the causes and risk factors of CKD?
The two main causes of chronic kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure, which are responsible for up to two-thirds of the cases. Research has shown a link between kidney disease and heart disease, meaning people with heart disease are at greater risk for kidney disease, and people with kidney disease are at higher risk for heart disease. Additionally, people with a family history of kidney failure are at a higher risk for chronic kidney disease (CKD). Other conditions that could affect the kidneys are Lupus, Glomerulonephritis, repeated urinary infections, Polycystic Kidney Disease, and genetic factors.
What are the symptoms of CKD?
- chest pain
- itching or numbness
- feeling tired
- headaches
- increased or decreased urination
- loss of appetite
- nausea
- shortness of breath
- trouble concentrating
- vomiting
- weight loss
- feel more tired and have less energy
- poor appetite
- trouble sleeping
- muscle cramping at night
- having puffiness around your eyes, especially in the morning
- dry, itchy skin
What can be done?
The earlier chronic kidney disease (CKD) is diagnosed, the sooner steps can be taken to make a treatment plan. Kidney disease is diagnosed with a simple blood test ordered by your doctor to determine your estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which is a measurement of how well your kidneys are functioning. Treatments and recommendations that are suggested might vary depending on the stage of kidney disease. Treatment plans might include managing other medical conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure; a kidney-friendly diet; taking medications; and transplant or dialysis.
Kidney disease is a health condition that affects millions of Americans and symptoms often don’t appear until late stages. With so many people suffering from this disease, awareness is important so earlier detection can happen and more research can be done to find better treatments. Our experienced staff is here to provide the community with the utmost quality of services to help our community. The Colony ER Hospital is here to support your family 24/7, 365 with concierge-level emergency care for all ages.
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