Chronic Kidney Disease

More than 30 million people across the world are living with the condition of CKD (chronic kidney disease). This condition refers to the lasting damage to an individual’s kidneys which can get worse over time. In fact, in the worst cases, if the damage is very bad, your kidneys might even stop working. This stage is known as kidney failure or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), to be medically precise. When your kidneys fail, you will need a kidney transplant or dialysis to live.

What Causes CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease)?

Usually, anyone has the chance to develop CKD. However, few people are more at risk than others. Few things that increase your risk for chronic kidney disease include:

  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • Having a genetic trait
  • Being over 60 years old

What Are The Symptoms Of Kidney Failure?

Whenever you are noticing one or more of the following symptoms, know the warning signs:

  • Muscle cramps
  • Itching
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Not feeling hungry
  • Swelling in your ankles or feet
  • Too much urine or not enough urine
  • Trouble catching your breath
  • Trouble sleeping

Chronic kidney disease, also called chronic kidney failure, refers to the gradual loss of kidney function. Usually, human kidneys filter excess fluids and wastes from human blood and transform them into urine. Whenever chronic kidney disease reaches an advanced stage, electrolytes, fluids, and wastes might build up in one’s body.

In the preliminary stage of chronic kidney disease, one might face a few symptoms or signs. Usually, CKD is a slow and progressive decay happening over several years. Gradually, a person develops permanent kidney failure.

This condition, also known as chronic renal failure, is much more widespread than common people realize. In most of the cases, it goes undiagnosed until the final stage emerges.

Fast Facts On Chronic Kidney Disease:

  • Common symptoms include high blood pressure, blood in urine and fatigue.
  • Causes include specific kidney disease, diabetes, and polycystic kidney disease.
  • There is no cure for this condition. Treatment is only focused on reducing symptoms.
  • However, diagnosis commonly occurs after kidney scans, blood tests or biopsy.