When the kidneys lose function gradually over a long period, the condition is called chronic kidney disease (CKD). Its most worrying feature is that many people have no symptoms early on and learn of it only after much of their kidney function has gone, Dr Shawkat Azad, consultant in nephrology at Evercare Hospital Chattogram, writes in Ajker Patrika.
The kidneys remove waste and excess water from the blood, balance salts and minerals, help control blood pressure and help make red blood cells, he explains. Diabetes and high blood pressure are the main causes of CKD; long-standing kidney inflammation, some inherited kidney diseases, repeated kidney infections, complications of stones and uncontrolled use of some medicines also raise the risk.
As the disease advances, swelling of the legs or face, changes in the amount or nature of urine, foamy or bloody urine, extreme tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea, itching, sleep problems and breathlessness may appear. But CKD cannot be identified from symptoms alone. Blood tests for serum creatinine and eGFR and urine tests for albumin or protein, ordered by a doctor, show how the kidneys are doing; an ultrasound may also be needed.
Not all CKD can be prevented, but in many cases the risk can be reduced and progression slowed. He advises keeping diabetes and blood pressure under control, avoiding smoking, keeping a healthy weight, staying active and not taking painkillers or other medicines for long periods without medical advice. Diet and fluid intake are not the same for every kidney patient; doctors and dietitians set them by the stage of the disease.
People with diabetes, high blood pressure, protein or blood in the urine, abnormal kidney test results, repeated kidney problems or a family history of kidney disease should see a nephrologist. The earlier CKD is detected, he says, the better the chance of protecting the kidney function that remains.
Source: Ajker Patrika
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