Did you know that 17 out of every 100 Indians have kidney disease?

More adults in India die from the chronic renal disease than from AIDS, at 1.36 lakh.

The kidneys, a pair of bean-shaped organs at the base of the rib cage, are principally in charge of:

• Removing from the blood wastes, extra water, and other impurities
• Controlling the body’s pH, salt, and potassium levels.
• Regulating both the creation of red blood cells and blood pressure.
• Triggering a vitamin D form that improves calcium absorption.

Polycystic kidney disease

A genetic condition is known as polycystic kidney disease results in an abundance of cysts—small fluid-filled sacs—growing inside the kidneys.

Renal failure may result from these cysts’ interference with kidney function.

Infections of the urinary tract

Bacterial infections of any region of the urinary system are known as urinary tract infections (UTIs).

The most frequent infections are those of the urethra and bladder.

These infections have the potential to spread to the kidneys and result in renal failure if left untreated.

Symptoms

• Early warning indications of developing kidney disease include the symptoms listed below:
• Fatigue is brought on by the blood’s accumulation of poisons and pollutants.
• Difficulty sleeping as a result of toxic accumulation in the blood from impaired renal function.
• Lack of appetite brought on by a blood toxin and impurity buildup brought on by impaired renal function.
• Cramping in the muscles is a result of electrolyte imbalances brought on by poor kidney function.
• Edema is characterized by swollen hands, feet, and ankles brought on by sodium retention and impaired kidney function.
• Puffiness around the eyes is a result of significant protein leakage from the kidneys into the urine.
• When the kidneys are unable to maintain the proper balance of minerals and nutrients in the blood, dry, scaly skin develops.
• Frequently going to the bathroom, especially after midnight
• Reduced mental awareness as a result of the blood’s development of toxins and pollutants.

Different types of kidney diseases:

When the kidneys cannot function properly, the renal disease develops.

• Chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease, which is primarily brought on by diabetes, high blood pressure, and other conditions, is defined by a progressive decline in kidney function over time.

Because it might put more pressure on the glomeruli, high blood pressure is harmful to the kidneys. 

The glomeruli are the minuscule blood arteries in the kidneys that purify the blood. 

These veins are harmed over time by the elevated pressure, and kidney function starts to deteriorate.

Chronic kidney disease has a strong link to diabetes. 

Over time, the blood vessels in the kidneys are harmed by the elevated blood sugar level.

• Kidney stones

When minerals and other elements in the blood crystallize in the kidneys, they form solid masses known as kidney stones.

Typically, kidney stones leave the body through urination.

• Glomerulonephritis

The glomeruli become inflamed in glomerulonephritis. 

Glomeruli are incredibly tiny kidney structures that filter blood. 

Drugs, congenital defects, or infections are all potential causes of glomerulonephritis.

Do you have a kidney disease risk factor?

The following are the main kidney disease risk factors:

• The most frequent cause of kidney blood vessel damage is diabetes.
• The kidney’s blood arteries and filters may be damaged by hypertension, the second-most prevalent cause,
• Age, more prevalent in those over 60
• Kidney illness runs in the family
• Atherosclerosis can induce kidney scarring and reduce blood flow.
• Smoking is bad for the kidneys and can make the condition worse.
• Significant risk factors for chronic kidney disease, such as diabetes and hypertension, are increased by obesity.

What therapies are available for kidney disease?

The reason for kidney illness, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, will be determined by the doctor. and might therefore prescribe.

• Medication to address the underlying issue, such as excessive cholesterol or blood pressure.
• A special diet that is lower in potassium, phosphate, sodium, and protein.
• Changing your way of life to be healthier.
• If the kidneys stop functioning properly, dialysis may be required.
• If renal disease is advanced, a kidney transplant may be advised.

Conclusion

Pratham Clinical Lab is a leading Pathology lab in Chandigarh. We offer a person-centered approach to keeping seniors safe and sound at home, instead of anywhere else.