Chronic kidney disease is characterized by gradual loss of kidney function and it is accompanied by different symptoms for a longer period of time. Generally, there is no permanent cure or treatment for this health condition. However, there are various ways which can slow down the progression of the disease or prevent it from getting worse.
Causes of Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease is usually associated with diabetes type 2 and hypertension. Also, another cause can be the incidence of glomerulonephritis which can lead to chronic kidney disease if not properly treated.
Other factors which can contribute to Chronic Kidney Disease are:
Heart failure, previous myocardial infarction, and cerebrovascular accident
Obesity and overweight
Smoking
History of kidney disease in the family
Races such as Aborigines an Torres Strait Islanders- people who have higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease
In case you have some of the previously mentioned risk factors, you should check your kidneys at least once a year.
Keep your kidneys healthy:
Regular physical activity
Quit smoking
Healthy diet
Maintain healthy weight
Symptoms and sign of Chronic Kidney Disease
Urine tests and comprehensive blood exam are the most commonly recommended tests by the doctors. If you are diagnosed with this health condition, you can undergo certain medical intervention and you may be prescribed treatments which can slow down the progression of the disease.
However, it may be necessary to change the medications because some of the rugs can be extremely dangerous for your kidneys when used on long terms. Also, your doctor may prescribe you anti-inflammation medications and antihypertensives.
Improper treatment or no treatment at all can lead to progression of the disease to Stage 5, which is considered as the final stage of renal failure. These patients need to have kidney transplantation or undergo regular dialysis.