MANAGING KIDNEY DISEASE
Kidney disease is a term used by doctors to include any abnormality of the kidneys, even if there is only very slight damage.
K
idney disease is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, often without causing any noticeable
symptoms until it reaches advanced stages.
What causes kidney disease? Kidney disease can be caused by a variety of factors that impair the kidneys’ ability to filter blood, balance fluids and electrolytes, and excrete waste products. Some of the most common causes are:
Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage the tiny blood vessels within the kidneys, leading to progressive loss of function. This is called diabetic nephropathy.
High blood pressure: Chronic high blood pressure can put immense strain on the kidneys, leading to progressive damage. This is called hypertensive nephropathy.
Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the glomeruli, the microscopic filtration units within the kidneys, can be caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, or genetic factors.
Polycystic kidney disease: An inherited condition where cysts grow within the kidneys, eventually compromising their ability to filter waste.
Interstitial nephritis: Inflammation of the kidney’s inner tissues can be caused by medications, infections, or autoimmune diseases.
Obstructions: Blockages in the flow of urine, such as from kidney stones or an enlarged prostate, can cause kidney damage.
Medications: Long-term, regular use of certain medicines, such as lithium and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can harm kidney function.
How does kidney disease affect the body?
Kidney disease can have serious consequences for the body, as it affects many vital functions and systems. Some of the effects of kidney disease are:
Fluid retention: As the kidneys lose their ability to regulate fluid balance, excess fluid can accumulate in the body, causing swelling, shortness of breath, and high blood pressure.
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