Chronic Kidney Disease Guide
Chronic kidney disease, also called chronic kidney failure, involves a gradual loss of kidney function. Your kidneys filter wastes and excess fluids from your blood, which are then removed in your urine. Advanced chronic kidney disease can cause dangerous levels of fluid, electrolytes and wastes to build up in your body.
What are the Risk Factors for Chronic Kidney Disease
Anyone can get chronic kidney disease at any age. However, some people are more likely than others to develop kidney disease. According to the National Kidney Foundation, you may have an increased risk for kidney disease if you:
- Have diabetes
- Have high blood pressure
- Have a family history of kidney failure
- Are older
- Belong to a population group with a high rate of diabetes or high blood pressure, such as African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian, Pacific Islanders, and American Indians
While it’s not possible to reverse kidney damage, you can take steps to slow it down. Taking prescribed medicine, being physically active, and eating well will help. You’ll also feel better and improve your overall well-being.
- Take your medicine as prescribed
- Get physically active
- Have a balanced and healthy diet
- Quit or don’t start smoking
- Understand kidney values (blood and urine tests)
- Follow up with doctor as indicated
- Discuss Preventative Care Options with your provider
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers tips on how to live with chronic kidney disease.
Treatment for chronic kidney disease focuses on slowing the progression of kidney damage, usually by controlling the cause. But even controlling the cause might not keep kidney damage from progressing. Chronic kidney disease can progress to end-stage kidney failure, which is fatal without artificial filtering (dialysis) or a kidney transplant.
- The CDC offers valuable resources and information about chronic kidney disease.
- The National Kidney Foundation provides information on research, innovation and the hole patient through the lens of kidney health.
- PA Health & Wellness for care coordination needs and support with the management of your condition.