Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease is a serious medical condition that causes the slow but steady loss of kidney function.

Your kidneys work to filter excess waste and fluids from your body. However, as chronic kidney disease gets worse, your kidneys are unable to do this. This causes dangerous levels of fluids, electrolytes, and waste to build up in your body.

Your kidneys are incredibly tough, adaptable, and overcompensate for lost function. This makes chronic kidney disease difficult to detect. In fact, many people in the early stages of the disease don’t realize anything is wrong. As chronic kidney disease gets worse, telltale signs include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Sleep problems
• Persistent itching
• Swelling of feet and ankles

Chronic kidney disease can also cause high blood pressure, which is difficult to control through traditional means like diet or exercise and could require more intensive treatment.

Chronic kidney disease affects men and women of all races, but certain factors can increase your risk of developing it, including:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Family history
• Obesity
• Abnormal kidney structure

You’re also more likely to develop chronic kidney disease if you’re middle-aged or older.

Unfortunately, there’s no way to prevent chronic kidney disease. But you can lower your risk by living a healthy lifestyle, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight. You should also follow the instructions on all over-the-counter medications. Taking too many pain relievers on a regular basis can damage your kidneys.

To diagnose chronic kidney disease, Dr. Hamid does a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks questions about your family. He also asks if you’ve noticed any changes in your urinary habits.

If these steps don’t provide enough information, Dr. Hamid can also order blood tests, urine tests, or imaging tests to learn more about your kidneys and the waste products in your body.

Chronic kidney disease can’t be cured, but some treatments can minimize your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

For mild or moderate chronic kidney disease, Dr. Hamid might recommend prescription medications to lower your blood pressure, cholesterol, and any swelling that might be present. He might also recommend eating a low-protein diet.

In late-stage cases of chronic kidney disease, Dr. Hamid will usually recommend dialysis and/or a kidney transplant.

If you’re concerned about your risk of chronic kidney disease, make an appointment at FH Medical Care by calling the office or using the online booking tool today.