What is chronic kidney disease and how can it be managed?
Chronic kidney disease (CKD)also known as chronic renal failure, is a serious condition involving progressive and irreversible deterioration of kidney function. The kidneys are essential for filtering waste and excess fluid from the blood, regulating blood pressure and producing important hormones. When the kidneys do not function properly, these functions are compromised and toxins accumulate in the body, leading to severe complications.
Causes of chronic kidney disease
- Diabetes mellitus: the most common cause of BCR.
- High blood pressure: affects the blood vessels of the kidneys.
- Glomerulonephritis: inflammation of the glomeruli, the microscopic filters of the kidneys.
- Polycystic kidney disease: a genetic condition that causes cysts to form on the kidneys.
- Recurrent urinary tract infections: can damage the kidneys in the long term.
- Some medicines: long-term use of certain painkillers can affect kidney function.
Symptoms of chronic kidney disease
Chronic kidney disease is a silent condition at first, with no obvious symptoms to indicate its presence. As the disease progresses and kidney function deteriorates, persistent fatigue, edema (swelling) of the extremities and changes in the appearance and frequency of urination occur. Later, other symptoms such as lower back pain, high blood pressure, digestive problems and itchy skin may also appear.
Managing chronic kidney disease
Although RCB cannot be cured, its progression can be slowed and complications can be prevented with proper management:
- Control risk factors: keeping diabetes and high blood pressure under control is essential.
- Lifestyle changes:
- Eat a healthy diet with salt, protein and potassium restriction.
- Stop smoking.
- Exercise regularly.
- Maintain a healthy body weight.
- Medication:
- Medications to control blood pressure (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers).
- Medications to control cholesterol levels.
- Drugs to treat anemia.
- Calcium and vitamin D supplements.
- Dialysis: in advanced stages of CRB, dialysis is needed to replace kidney function.
- Kidney transplantation: a treatment option for some patients with end-stage CKD.
Prevention
- Check your blood pressure and blood sugar regularly.
- Adopt a healthy lifestyle.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Proper hydration.
- Caution when using medicines, especially painkillers.
Elytis Hospital: Dedicated support for kidney patients
The Nephrology Department at Elytis Hospital offers a full range of services for patients with chronic kidney disease. Our team of highly experienced nephrologists ensures accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment and close monitoring throughout the course of the disease.
At Elytis Hospital you benefit from:
- Nephrology consultations: complete assessment of kidney health and individualized treatment plan.
- Regular nephrological check-ups: close monitoring of disease progression and adjustment of treatment.
- Lifestyle counseling: personalized advice on diet, exercise and other lifestyle changes to slow disease progression.
- Support and education: comprehensive information about chronic kidney disease, treatment and management of complications.
Elytis Hospital is distinguished by top medical expertise, having nephrologists with extensive experience and highly specialized skills.
The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, utilizing high-performance medical equipment for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Personalized approach is a priority, ensuring individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs.
Read more, Elytis Hospital emphasizes patient care and empathy, creating a comfortable and supportive environment for both patients and their families.
Do not hesitate to call on the expertise of Elytis Hospital for the management of chronic kidney disease!
Latest medical review:
20.01.2025, Dr. Alexandra Balla – Medic Primar Nefrologie