World Kidney Day 2024: Fatigue, swelling in ankles, poor appetite are symptoms of CKD

Symptoms of chronic kidney disease (CKD): Fatigue, swelling in ankles, feet or hands, shortness of breath, and poor appetite are symptoms of chronic kidney disease.

World Kidney Day is observed on every second Thursday of March, and this year's theme is 'Kidney Health for All'. The day raises awareness about a critical but often overlooked health concern – our kidneys.

Alarming as it is, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is becoming a growing concern in India, with a staggering figure of up to 800 cases in every million population, and End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) affecting 150-200 per million. These numbers emphasise the urgent need for awareness and the proactive measures that need to be taken to protect our vital organs.

Dr Jaymin Somani, MD, DNB (Nephrologist), Consultant, Nephrologist and Transplant Physician, Sterling Hospitals, shares what is CKD and how we can prevent and manage the disease.

What is Chronic Kidney Disease?

Chronic Kidney Disease is the gradual loss of kidney function. Unlike some conditions with immediate symptoms, chronic kidney disease often progresses silently, making early detection crucial. However, as the disease advances, fatigue, swelling in ankles, feet or hands, shortness of breath, and poor appetite might emerge. It's important to be aware of these warning signs and not dismiss them as mere inconveniences.

How to prevent CKD

Regular check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your doctor, especially if you have risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease. These check-ups can include blood tests and urine analysis to monitor your kidney function.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise is vital. Focus on including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting salt intake. Remember, a healthy weight puts less strain on your kidneys.

Stay hydrated: Adequate water intake ensures optimal kidney function, helping the organ to flush out waste products more efficiently.

Limit alcohol and smoking: These habits can significantly damage your kidneys. Quitting smoking and minimising alcohol consumption are crucial steps towards protecting your kidney health.

Treatment options for Chronic Kidney Disease

Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing CKD effectively. Treatment options would include medications to control blood pressure, lower blood sugar, and manage complications depending on the severity. A registered dietitian can help create a kidney-friendly meal plan to modify your diet. In advanced stages of CKD, dialysis may be necessary, which is a process that artificially removes waste products from the blood. For some patients, a kidney transplant may offer a long-term solution.

By raising awareness about CKD, its risk factors, and preventive measures, we can encourage people to take charge of their kidney health. Schedule regular check-ups, prioritise a healthy lifestyle, and manage underlying conditions to safeguard these vital organs. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to living a healthy life with well-functioning kidneys.