What is kidney disease?
Chronic kidney disease is when an individual suffers from gradual and usually permanent loss of kidney function over time, usually months to years. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) determined that 1 in 6 adults above the age of 20 have chronic kidney disease.
What causes kidney disease?
The cause of chronic kidney disease is not always known. Any condition or disease that damages blood vessels or other structures in the kidneys can lead to kidney disease. The most common causes of chronic kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure.
What are some risk factors for developing kidney disease?
The main risk factors for the development of chronic kidney disease are:
- Advancing Age
- Race
- Family history
- High blood pressure
- Overweight
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Certain medications
What are the symptoms associated with kidney disease?
Many people who develop chronic kidney disease do not have symptoms at first. This is known as the “silent” phase of the disease. As your kidney function declines, you may:
- Urinate less
- Have swelling
- Feel very tired
- Lose your appetite
- Feel nauseated
- Have trouble sleeping
- Have headaches
- Have trouble concentrating
What can I do?
Controlling other diseases or factors that contribute to kidney disease may prevent chronic kidney disease. Since chronic kidney disease is often caused by high blood pressure and diabetes, keeping your blood pressure and blood sugar levels near normal can help prevent damage to your kidneys. See your health care provider regularly for check ups and monitoring.
|
