Health A-Z

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition characterized by progressive loss of kidney function over time. Here's an overview of the symptoms, treatment plan, and diagnosis testing for chronic kidney disease.

1. Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued, even with adequate rest, is a common symptom of chronic kidney disease.
2. Fluid Retention: Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or face (edema) may occur due to fluid retention.
3. Increased Urination: Some individuals with CKD may experience increased urination, particularly at night (nocturia), or changes in urine output.
4. Foamy or Bloody Urine: Foamy urine (proteinuria) or blood in the urine (hematuria) may be signs of kidney damage.
5. Difficulty Concentrating: Impaired kidney function can affect cognitive function, leading to difficulty concentrating or mental cloudiness.
6. Shortness of Breath: Excess fluid buildup in the body can lead to shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
7. Nausea and Vomiting: Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite may occur as waste products accumulate in the bloodstream.
8. Weakness and Muscle Cramps: Weakness, muscle cramps, and muscle twitching may occur due to electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium levels.
9. Itching: Accumulation of waste products in the blood can cause itching, particularly in the absence of other skin conditions.
10. High Blood Pressure: Chronic kidney disease can lead to hypertension (high blood pressure), which may be difficult to control with medications alone.

1. Blood Pressure Management: Aggressive control of hypertension is crucial for slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease and reducing the risk of complications such as cardiovascular disease. Medications such as ACE inhibitors or ARBs are commonly used to lower blood pressure and protect kidney function.
2. Blood Glucose Control: Tight control of blood glucose levels is essential for individuals with diabetes to prevent or delay the onset of diabetic kidney disease and slow the progression of CKD.
3. Medications to Protect the Kidneys: Certain medications, such as ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, have been shown to provide cardiovascular and renal protection in individuals with CKD.
4. Dietary Modifications: A balanced diet low in sodium, saturated fats, and refined sugars can help manage blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and weight, reducing the risk of complications associated with chronic kidney disease.
5. Smoking Cessation: Smoking can accelerate the progression of kidney disease and increase the risk of cardiovascular complications. Quitting smoking is essential for protecting kidney function and overall health.
6. Dialysis or Kidney Transplant: In advanced stages of chronic kidney disease, dialysis or kidney transplant may be necessary to replace lost kidney function and maintain overall health and well-being.

1. Blood Tests: Blood tests such as serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) are used to assess kidney function and diagnose chronic kidney disease.
2. Urinalysis: Urinalysis is used to assess for the presence of proteinuria, hematuria, and other abnormalities in the urine.
3. Albuminuria Testing: Measurement of urinary albumin excretion is an important marker of kidney damage in chronic kidney disease.
4. Kidney Imaging: Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be performed to evaluate the size, shape, and structure of the kidneys and detect any abnormalities.
5. Kidney Biopsy: In some cases, a kidney biopsy may be performed to obtain a tissue sample for further evaluation and to guide treatment decisions, particularly if the diagnosis is unclear or if other kidney conditions are suspected.