The Truth About CKD
Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is defined as the steady and progressive decline in kidney function. Understanding how it impacts your body and how you can manage it is integral to successful treatment. Here you’ll learn all about the pathophysiology of CKD, from its different stages to some of its underlying causes, symptoms and treatment approaches.
What is Chronic Kidney Disease?
Chronic Kidney Disease (often diagnosed by the acronym ‘CKD’) occurs when your kidneys are damaged and cannot filter your blood as well as healthy kidneys. This damage can cause waste and fluids to build up in your body, which can result in other health problems such as high blood pressure, anemia and nerve damage. Unlike other forms of kidney failure, CKD is a progressive disease, which means that if it is not properly managed, it is likely that the disease will worsen over time.
Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease
CKD is divided into five stages according to the gradual loss of function, evaluated by how well the kidneys extract waste and excess fluid from the circulating blood.
Stage 1:
Very mild damage with normal or high filtration (GFR > 90 mL/min).
Stage 2:
Mild decrease in kidney function (GFR 60-89 mL/min).
Stage 3:
Moderate decrease in kidney function (GFR 30-59 mL/min).
Stage 4:
Severe reduction in kidney function (GFR 15-29 mL/min).
Stage 5:
End-stage renal disease (ESRD) or kidney failure that requires dialysis or transplantation (GFR 15 mL/min or less).
The management of each stage is different, and the goals of treatment are to slow the progression.
The most common causes of CKD include:
Diabetes:
High glucose levels lead to the narrowing/scarring of blood vessels in kidneys.
Hypertension:
Hypertension (also known as high blood pressure) is the leading cause of kidney disease. High blood pressure knocks at the door of the kidneys, damaging the arteries in your kidneys, or making them either hard or brittle.
Glomerulonephritis:
An inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units.
Voiding Dysfunction:
Long-standing obstruction to the urinary tract such as enlarged prostate, kidney stones and some tumors.
Pyelonephritis:
Recurrent kidney infection.
Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease
In the early stages of CKD, you might not have any symptoms. Later symptoms might include:
Fatigue and lack of energy
Difficulty concentrating
Poor appetite
Trouble sleeping
Muscle cramping at night
Swollen feet and ankles
Puffiness around the eyes, especially in the morning
Dry, itchy skin
Frequent urination, especially at night
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of CKD might involve various tests and procedures, such as health and lifestyle history, blood tests to measure levels of creatinine and urea, urine tests to look for protein and blood, imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan to check kidney size and structure, and for some people a kidney biopsy.
Treatment for CKD is aimed at slowing the progression of the damage to the kidneys, often by treating the underlying cause. This can include:
Blood pressure medications:
Managing blood pressure can significantly slow the progression of CKD.
Diabetes management:
Keeping blood sugar levels under control can help prevent further kidney damage.
Dietary changes:
Reducing salt, fluids, and certain proteins can help kidney function.
Lifestyle changes:
Stopping smoking and getting regular exercise.
If the CKD progresses to stage 5, then treatment options become dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Preventing Chronic Kidney Disease
CKD can be prevented and treated. Taking the following steps will reduce your risk:
1. Control your blood pressure and blood sugar
2. Take your medicines as directed
3. Develop an exercise plan with encouragement from a supportive coach.
4. Work with a dietician who has experience with kidney disease.
5. Get your annual Medicare screening.
CKD: What it is, What it’s not, and What to do about it?
Keeping active and fit.
Regularly monitoring your blood sugar and blood pressure.
Maintaining a healthy weight.
Eating a balanced diet low in salt and processed foods.
Avoiding nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen.
Regular check-ups with your doctor.
Conclusion
Chronic Kidney Disease is a serious condition that needs to be detected early and managed so that it does not hasten its destructive nature. Understanding the factors that puts one at risk and listening to your health care providers advice go a long way to manage one ailment and also help in maintaining good quality of life.
FAQs About Chronic Kidney Disease
Can chronic kidney disease be reversed?
If CKD has already started, it is seldom reversible, but it can be slowed by early intervention.
How common is CKD?
CKD affects about 15% of the adult population in the United States.
Can you live a normal life with CKD?
Despite this, many people with the condition lead full or normal lives, as long as it is detected early and well managed.
What is the best diet for someone with CKD?
It is also recommended that you follow a low-salt diet, limiting proteins and phosphorus. You can consult a renal dietitian.
How often should someone with CKD see their doctor?
For those in earlier stages of CKD, this is seldom needed, although as CKD progresses, monitoring may need to be more frequent along with adjustments to treatment.
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