1. What exactly is chronic kidney disease?

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by a gradual decline of kidney function over months or years. Damage to the kidneys means that your kidneys can't do their job and you might become quite ill as a result. Without adequate treatment, which may include dialysis, you might develop kidney failure, which can be fatal.


2. Who is affected by CKD?

The National Kidney Foundation estimates that 30 million Americans have CKD. While this ailment can affect anybody at any age, it is more frequent in African-Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, and South Asians (those from India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, or Pakistan), as well as persons over the age of 60. Furthermore, women are more likely than males to get CKD.


3. What causes chronic kidney disease?

CKD can be caused by a number of causes, the most serious of which are diabetes and high blood pressure. These two disorders account for two-thirds of all instances of CKD. Ironically, those with diabetes are more likely than non-diabetics to have high blood pressure and Kidney damage. 

There are various conditions that might cause CKD. These include glomerulonephritis, a kidney inflammation and damage disorder; lupus, an inflammatory illness; polycystic kidney disease; kidney stones; kidney tumors; recurrent urinary tract infections; and kidney deformities.


4. What are the symptoms of CKD?

You may not have any symptoms in the early stages of CKD. Some people, on the other hand, find that they:

• Feeling fatigued and drained of energy

• Have a poor appetite

• Have difficulty concentrating

• Having difficulty sleeping

• Have itchy, dry skin

• Have swelling ankles and feet

• Experience muscular cramps

• Urinate more frequently than normal

• Urine that is pink or dark


5. What tests are used to detect CKD?

Kidney disease is detected using both blood and urine testing. One of the tests looks for creatinine, a waste product produced by muscles and eliminated by the kidneys. Creatinine levels in the blood might rise if the kidneys aren't operating as effectively as they should. 

The glomerular filtration rate, or GFR, is an equation that may be used to calculate your kidney function. This indicates to your doctor how effectively your kidneys are functioning. The urine microalbumin, or albumin-to-creatinine ratio, is another easy test. This test determines whether or not there is protein in the urine.


6. What is the treatment for CKD?

CKD, like diabetes, has no cure, although therapies are available. Medication and dietary adjustments are frequently required in the early stages of this condition. If your CKD worsens and your kidneys fail, you will most likely require dialysis to eliminate wastes and extra fluid from your body. Some patients may benefit from a kidney transplant.


7. What diet is good for chronic kidney disease?

CKD, like diabetes, does not have a single diet. What and how much you eat may be affected by how effectively your kidney illness is treated and the stage of kidney disease you are in. Most people, however, need to make some dietary modifications, particularly in terms of how much sodium (salt) they consume. You may also need to reduce your consumption of potassium and phosphorus.


8. Is a low-protein diet required for CKD management?

Until recently, doctors frequently advised persons with CKD to limit their protein intake. Too much protein, such as that found in meat, poultry, or fish, was considered to cause waste buildup in the circulation. However, emerging evidence suggests that, while you should always check your protein intake, a low-protein diet isn't essential and, in some situations, can lead to malnutrition. If you have CKD, you should see your doctor and meet with a nutritionist who specializes in kidney disease to determine the optimal diet for you.


9. Are herbal supplements safe to consume if you have CKD?

It's critical to see your doctor about any supplements you're taking or considering taking. Some supplements are toxic to the kidneys and should be avoided. Creatine (not to be confused with creatinine), licorice root, barberry, yohimbe, and astragalus are among them. Potassium is also found in bitter melon, American ginseng, feverfew, and evening primrose. Phosphorus is also found in several supplements, such as American ginseng, feverfew, and milk thistle. Taking these pills can be extremely harmful, therefore always see your doctor before taking any supplements.


10. Is it possible to prevent CKD?

While there are no guarantees that you will never develop CKD, you can take steps to avoid it. Focus on controlling your blood sugars and A1C levels if you have diabetes. Everyone, especially those at higher risk of CKD, should strive to maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight, as well as quitting smoking, are also important steps to take. Finally, discuss CKD with your healthcare team, including your risk factors, screening tests, and specific steps you can take to reduce your risk.