Kidney Diseases Resource Center
Health ConditionsUrological HealthKidney Diseases

Kidney Diseases

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Kidney diseases encompass a range of conditions, including chronic kidney disease and kidney failure. These diseases affect the kidneys’ ability to filter waste and maintain fluid balance, usually causing no symptoms early on but eventually leading to things like urination changes, fatigue, or swelling in the legs and ankles.

 Treatment options vary depending on the disease but may include controlling blood pressure and blood glucose, taking medications, avoiding medications that harm the kidneys, and dialysis or kidney transplantation if kidney failure occurs. Lifestyle adjustments such as diet changes, increased exercise, stress management, and smoking cessation can play a significant role in managing kidney health.

FAQ

What are the early signs of kidney disease?

Kidney disease may not cause any symptoms early on. As the disease progresses, kidney disease may lead to swelling in the arms and legs, known as edema. However, many people can only tell that they have early kidney disease through blood and urine testing.

Chronic kidney disease often gets worse over time, and kidney damage can be permanent. However, if you can catch kidney disease early enough, protecting your kidneys can prevent it from worsening.

High-sodium, high-protein, high-potassium, and high-phosphorus foods can be harmful if you have reduced kidney function. Speak to a dietitian for help sticking to an eating plan that prioritizes foods that support kidney function and limit waste buildup.

Doctors use blood tests to check glomerular filtration rate (how effectively your kidneys filter blood) and creatinine levels, urine tests to measure protein and blood in the urine, and imaging to identify structural problems, including narrowings or blockages.

Diabetes is a significant cause of chronic kidney disease. If you have diabetes, a doctor may request that you undergo regular kidney testing to rule out damage. Managing diabetes can reduce your risk of further kidney damage.

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Resources
  1. What Is Chronic Kidney Disease? National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. June 2017.
  2. Chronic Kidney Disease. Cleveland Clinic. May 7, 2023.

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