Chronic kidney disease: Symptoms, prevention, management strategies for better health

High blood pressure damages blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter blood effectively. (Image: Canva)

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) poses a significant health risk, particularly for postmenopausal women who may be more susceptible due to age-related changes and underlying conditions like hypertension and diabetes. CKD progresses slowly, often without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making timely intervention crucial for managing the disease and improving outcomes.

Recognising early signs can prompt necessary medical evaluation and intervention and implementing preventive strategies can significantly reduce the risk and slow CKD's progression. Understanding these aspects can help in effectively managing CKD and improving quality of life, says Arvind Kumar, Delhi-based nephrologist and senior consultant with Akash Medicare Varanasi.

Fatigue and weakness: Persistent tiredness and general weakness are common due to the kidneys reduced ability to filter waste and excess fluids, leading to a buildup of toxins in the body. This can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life.

Swelling (Edema): Swelling in the feet, ankles, or legs occurs as the kidneys lose their ability to remove excess fluid, causing it to accumulate in tissues. This can lead to discomfort, decreased mobility, and increased risk of skin infections, says Kumar.

Changes in urination:

Increased frequency: Particularly at night (nocturia), can indicate impaired kidney function and reduced ability to concentrate urine.

Foamy or bubbly urine: Suggests protein leakage into the urine, a sign of kidney damage.

Blood in urine: Can indicate kidney or urinary tract damage, requiring immediate medical attention.

High blood pressure: Both a cause and consequence of CKD, high blood pressure damages blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter blood effectively. Managing hypertension is crucial to slowing CKD progression.

Shortness of breath: Fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema) due to kidney failure can cause difficulty breathing. Additionally, anemia associated with CKD reduces oxygen transport in the blood, exacerbating breathlessness, says Kumar.

Nausea and vomiting: Accumulation of waste products in the blood can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. This can result in weight loss and malnutrition.

Muscle cramps: Electrolyte imbalances, particularly low levels of calcium and high levels of phosphorus, can cause painful muscle cramps. Proper management of these imbalances is essential for patient comfort.

Itchy skin: Waste buildup in the bloodstream can cause persistent itching, significantly affecting the quality of life. This symptom often worsens as kidney function declines.

Difficulty concentrating: The buildup of toxins can affect brain function, leading to cognitive issues such as poor concentration, memory problems, and overall mental fatigue, impacting daily functioning.

Prevention and treatment strategies

Healthy diet:Low sodium: Reducing sodium intake helps manage fluid retention and blood pressure, lessening the burden on the kidneys.

Low protein: Limiting protein intake can decrease kidney workload by reducing the amount of waste the kidneys need to process.

Rich in fruits and vegetables: Provides essential vitamins and minerals, supporting overall health and kidney function.

Avoid high phosphorus and potassium: Prevents dangerous electrolyte imbalances that can exacerbate CKD symptoms and complications.

Regular exercise: Engaging in consistent physical activity maintains cardiovascular health, manages weight, and helps control blood pressure, all of which are critical in preventing CKD progression.

Quit smoking: Smoking cessation improves overall health and significantly reduces the progression of kidney damage by improving blood flow and reducing oxidative stress.

Limit alcohol: Reducing alcohol intake helps lower blood pressure and prevents further kidney damage, promoting better overall kidney health.

Medical management

Regular monitoring:
Check-ups: Regular visits to a healthcare provider ensure timely detection and management of CKD and associated risk factors, suggests Kumar.

Tests: Monitoring blood pressure, blood sugar, serum creatinine, and GFR helps track kidney function and disease progression, guiding treatment decisions.

By understanding and addressing these signs, symptoms, and preventive measures, individuals can manage CKD more effectively and maintain a better quality of life.