Overview
Chronic kidney disease happens when kidneys are damaged and fails to perform its normal functions, such as filtering our waste products, produce erythropoietin and regulate blood pressure. It happens gradually and usually shows no symptoms in the early stages.Signs and Symptoms
Changes in frequency of urination, Swelling of feet and ankles, Nausea and vomiting, Loss of appetite, High blood pressure, Shortness of breath, Chest pain, Dry and itchy skin, Muscle cramps, Weakness, Fatigue, Confusion and drowsinessCommon Causes
High blood pressure, Type 1 and 2 diabetes, Recurrent pyelonephritis (kidney infection), Polycystic kidney disease, Glomerulonephritis, Interstitial nephritis, Renal aretery stenosis, Vesicoureteral reflux, Longstanding kidney stones that obstructs urinary flow, Nephrotoxic medications, Heavy metal poisoningRisk Factors
High blood pressure, Type 1 and 2 diabetes, Obesity, Family history of kidney disease, Increasing age, Smoking, Drug abuse or overdose, Structural abnormalities in kidney, Cardiovascular diseaseInvestigation Techniques
Medical history, Physical examination, Blood tests to look for changes in the estimated gloverular filtration rate (eGFR) and levels of creatinine and urea, Urine tests, Ultrasound of the kidneys to examine kidney structure, Kidney biopsyTreatment and Prevention
Lifestyle changes, Treatment of underlying cause, High blood pressure medications, Cholesterol-lowering medications, Diuretics, Calcium and vitamin D supplements, Erythropoietin supplements, Low protein diet, Fluid restriction, Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis, Kidney transplant
