What you should know about chronic kidney disease and its warning signs

Doctors warn that chronic kidney disease often develops silently, and managing diabetes and blood pressure early can help prevent kidney failure.

Chronic kidney disease refers to a progressive and an irreversible decline in the normal functioning of the kidneys, lasting for more than three months. It usually occurs because of abnormalities in the structure or function of the renal system. As the kidneys are responsible for the excretion of waste products from the body, any damage causes accumulation of metabolic waste products.

Major risk factors for the development of chronic kidney disease include a history of diabetes mellitus, hypertension (raised blood pressure), cardiovascular diseases and increased weight. Advanced age may also be a contributing influence.

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As some of the nephrons, the structural and functional units of the kidneys, begin to get damaged, the others need to over-compensate by hyper-filtration. Over time, this leads to glomerular sclerosis, that is the hardening and scarring of glomeruli, and interstitial fibrosis, which affects typical kidney functions.

Diabetic nephropathy is one of the most common causes of development of chronic kidney disease worldwide. Long-term increase of blood sugar levels causes damage to the glomeruli (the tiny network of blood vessels in the nephrons that act as filtering units). If diabetes is controlled adequately and managed early on, it can prevent renal dysfunction.

Not only diabetes, but hypertension too can lead to damage of the kidneys. The renal blood vessels get affected as well. However, pre-existing chronic kidney disease can worsen hypertension because it causes retention of sodium. Thus it contributes to a vicious cycle that ultimately worsens renal failure.

While this condition may remain asymptomatic in the initial stages, later, it presents with symptoms like fatigue, anorexia, nausea and generalised weakness. The affected person also notices puffiness of the face, distension of the abdomen and swelling in the legs. Breathlessness and confusion can also develop, along with itching.

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The kidneys also aid in formation of the red blood cells, and when the function of these vital organs is impaired, there occurs a reduction in the levels of haemoglobin, which leads to anaemia.

Timely control of co-morbidities like diabetes and hypertension, and avoidance of nephrotoxic drugs is recommended. Dietary salt and protein restriction may be advised, and early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications.

FAQs on Chronic Kidney Disease:

1. What is chronic kidney disease?

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive and irreversible decline in kidney function over more than three months.

2. What causes chronic kidney damage?

Chronic kidney damage is often caused by abnormalities in the structure or function of the kidneys, with major risk factors including diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and increased weight.

3. Can chronic kidney damage be asymptomatic?

Yes, chronic kidney damage can remain asymptomatic in its initial stages but may later present with symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, weakness, and swelling in various parts of the body.

4. How does diabetes affect the kidneys?

Long-term high blood sugar levels in diabetes can damage the glomeruli in the kidneys, leading to diabetic nephropathy, a common cause of chronic kidney damage.

5. How is chronic kidney damage managed?

Chronic kidney damage management includes controlling co-morbidities like diabetes and hypertension, avoiding nephrotoxic drugs, and possibly dietary restrictions on salt and protein.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.