WHAT IS CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE (CKD)?

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition where kidneys are damaged and unable to  filter blood the way they are supposed to. Usually, when  kidneys don't work well for longer than 03 months, doctors call this chronic kidney disease. 

Diabetes (types 1 and 2) and High Blood Pressure are the most common causes of CKD. Risk factors include a family history of the condition.Some other conditions that may affect the kidney health could be: 

• Long-lasting viral illnesses like HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C
• Certain Urinary tract infections 
• Inflammation in the tiny filters in the kidneys
• Polycystic kidney disease 
• Congenital defects that  can block the urinary tract or affect the kidneys 
• Drugs and toxins, such as lead poisoning, being around some types of chemicals
• Long-term use of some medications ibuprofen, etc

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE? 

The symptoms of CKD may not appear until irreversible damage has occurred to the kidney. The signs presented at a later stage can include: 

• Nausea & Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue and weakness
• Sleep problems
• Changes in quantity and frequency of urination 
• Decreased mental sharpness
• Muscle twitches and cramps
• Swelling of feet and ankles
• Persistent itching
• Chest pain and shortness of breath
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure), etcetera

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT 

Diagnosis : Testing may be the only way to detect  kidney disease. With the existing conditions of diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, or a family history of kidney failure, it would be ideal to undergo regular kidney disease screening tests. Diagnosis is made by review of patient history and performing diagnostic tests such as: 

• Blood tests
• Urine tests 
• Ultrasound 
• Kidney biopsy , etc

Treatment : Initial treatments may include medications to manage blood pressure, blood sugar, anaemia and lower cholesterol. Other recommended measures include staying active and certain dietary changes. While, severe disease may require hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, or a kidney transplant. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION 

People are at risk for kidney disease if they  have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or a family history of kidney failure. People at risk should get tested for kidney disease and protect their kidneys by making healthy food choices, being more active, aim for a healthy weight, and manage various health conditions that cause kidney damage - most importantly, diabetes and hypertension.