The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste products and regulating the body’s fluid balance. However, just like any other part of our bodies, they are susceptible to diseases that can greatly impact their function.
According to the National Kidney Foundation, 1 in 7 adults in the United States have chronic kidney disease (CKD), and millions more are at risk of developing various kidney ailments. With such alarming statistics, it is important for everyone to understand common kidney diseases and their treatments to protect these precious organs.
In this blog, we will delve into some of the most prevalent kidney diseases and explore different treatment options available for managing them effectively.
What Are Kidneys and Why Do We Need Them?
We have two kidneys, and they are shaped like beans. They sit on each side of the spine, just below the ribcage.
Kidneys do a lot of important jobs, like filtering blood, balancing bodily fluids, making urine, and controlling electrolytes. If the kidneys don’t work well, waste and extra fluids can build up in the body, which can lead to illnesses.
Common Kidney Diseases
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-lasting kidney disease where the kidneys don’t work as well as they should. It usually gets worse over time and can lead to kidney failure, if not treated properly. Diagnosing CKD early and managing it properly can help slow its progress.
Symptoms of CKD
In the early stages, CKD symptoms can be mild, making it hard to spot without regular check-ups. Common signs include feeling very tired, swelling in the ankles and feet, needing to urinate often (especially at night), and having high blood pressure.
As it gets worse, you might feel shortness of breath, nausea, or confusion.
Treatments for CKD
Treatments for CKD aim to slow down the disease and manage symptoms. This often includes lifestyle changes like eating a balanced diet that’s low in salt and protein, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking. Nephrologists may also prescribe medicines to help control blood pressure and blood sugar levels. In serious cases, dialysis or a kidney transplant might be needed.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hard bits of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They can cause a lot of pain but are usually treatable.
Symptoms of Kidney Stones
The main symptom of kidney stones is a sharp pain in the back or side, which may also be felt in the lower belly and groin. Other symptoms include needing to urinate often, having blood in your urine, and feeling sick to your stomach.
Treatments for Kidney Stones
Treatment options depend on how big the stone is and what type it is. Small stones may pass on their own if you drink more fluids.
Bigger stones might need medical help, like a procedure called extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) to break them up or surgery to remove them.
Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis is when the tiny filters in the kidneys, called glomeruli, become inflamed. This can make it hard for the kidneys to get rid of waste from the blood.
Symptoms of Glomerulonephritis
Symptoms of glomerulonephritis include urine that looks pink or brown, foamy urine, and high blood pressure. Some people might notice swelling in their face, hands, feet, or belly.
Treatment of Glomerulonephritis
Treating glomerulonephritis depends on the underlying cause and the seriousness of the condition. Treatment may involve medicine to manage blood pressure and swelling, or in serious cases, dialysis.
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic condition where many cysts form in the kidneys. These cysts can get big and cause problems with how the kidneys work.
Symptoms of PKD
Symptoms of polycystic kidney disease include high blood pressure, pain in the back or sides, and frequent kidney infections. Some people with polycystic kidney disease might also see blood in their urine or get kidney stones.
Treatments for PKD
There is no cure for polycystic kidney disease, but treatments help manage symptoms and slow down cyst growth. This can include medicine for blood pressure, antibiotics for infections, and lifestyle changes to keep kidneys healthy.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Acute kidney injury (AKI) refers to when the kidneys suddenly stop working well. This can happen because of an injury, a bad infection, or certain medicines. Unlike long-term kidney problems, AKI can happen quickly but often gets better with the right treatment.
Symptoms of AKI
The signs of AKI include passing less urine, swelling in the legs and ankles, and trouble breathing. You might also feel confused, have chest pain, or feel really tired.
Treatments for AKI
To treat AKI, nephrologists focus on fixing what caused it, like stopping harmful medicines or treating infections. It’s also important to maintain proper fluid and salt levels in your body.
In serious cases, you might need dialysis for a short time until your kidneys start working better.
Kidney Disease in Brockton & Taunton, MA
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of kidney disease or have risk factors that may lead to kidney issues, visit us here at Associates in Nephrology. Our team of experienced, board-certified nephrologists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to your individual needs.
We offer advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support to manage kidney health effectively.
For more information, contact us today at (508) 587-0700 or use our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
Source:
