Kidney Disease: A Nephrologist's Guide to Causes and Prevention

 

 

     Kidney disease has diverse causes beyond high-sodium diets, including insufficient hydration, pre-existing conditions, and self-medicating with pain relievers. Since it impacts multiple organ systems and complicates treatment, our nephrologists stress understanding its causes and preventive measures for maintaining kidney health.

 

Types of Kidney Disease

Kidney failure or "kidney deterioration" refers to impaired or reduced kidney function, broadly categorized into two main types:

 

1.  Acute Kidney Failure

     This is a rapid loss of kidney function caused by factors such as severe bloodstream infections, exposure to toxins, medication side effects, or complications from urinary tract diseases. Symptoms like body swelling, dark urine (meat-washed color), and abnormally high blood pressure often appear within days or weeks and are more severe than chronic kidney failure. Although acute kidney failure can be life-threatening, prompt diagnosis and treatment by a specialist can help the kidneys recover and regain function.

 

2.  Chronic Kidney Failure

     Chronic kidney failure involves a gradual, continuous decline in kidney function, which can span months or years, varying by individual. Unlike acute failure, chronic kidney failure is irreversible. Patients often remain asymptomatic until kidney function drops to below 50%.

 

 

 

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Initial symptoms may be less severe and harder to detect than acute kidney failure, but urine tests often reveal red blood cells or protein. Without proper treatment, kidney function will continue to deteriorate.

 

 

Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Failure

     Common symptoms include body swelling, high blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, patients may experience sudden unconsciousness and acute death.

 

Causes of Kidney Disease

Beyond simply consuming salty, spicy, sweet, or high-sodium foods, common causes of kidney disease include:

 

1.  Genetics

     Specifically, polycystic kidney disease can be inherited as an autosomal dominant trait. If one parent has the condition, it can be passed to their children. Additionally, infants with a birth weight of less than 2,500 grams are at increased future risk of kidney disease due to potentially reduced kidney function.

 

2.  Insufficient Hydration

     Kidneys require water to filter waste and produce urine. Inadequate water intake forces the kidneys to work harder, leading to concentrated, dark urine and insufficient hydration for bodily needs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.  Co-existing Medical Conditions Affecting Kidneys

     Diabetes and high blood pressure are major contributors. Other conditions, such as kidney stones, glomerulonephritis (kidney inflammation), gout, and recurrent urinary tract infections, can also lead to kidney disease.

 

4.  Pre-existing Kidney Abnormalities

     A history of kidney inflammation or kidney cysts is also a risk factor for developing kidney disease.

 

5.  NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)

     Continuous use of pain and anti-inflammatory medications like aspirin and ibuprofen can reduce blood flow to the kidneys. Always consult a doctor or a qualified pharmacist for appropriate advice before using any type of medication.

 

 

 

 

 

 

When to Seek Medical Attention for Kidney Symptoms?

Prompt medical consultation is advised if you observe any of these potential kidney disease symptoms:

 

• Body swelling: particularly in the face or legs, is most noticeable when standing.
• Foamy urine: or foam remaining after flushing.
• Bloody urine: or urine resembling "meat-washed" water.
• Frequent nighttime urination: or increased nocturnal awakenings to urinate.
• Unusual or severe lower back pain: or flank pain.
• Abnormally high blood pressure: especially in individuals under 35 years old.
• Feelings of nausea: vomiting, or loss of appetite.

 

Tips for Preventing Kidney Disease

Protecting your kidneys involves several practical steps:

 

• Drink Sufficient Clean Water: Beyond supporting overall bodily functions, consuming at least 2 liters of clean water daily helps kidneys efficiently filter toxins and waste from the blood for excretion via urine.
• Choose Healthy Foods: Avoid excessively salty, sweet, spicy, high-fat, or processed foods. Instead, opt for fresh, chemical-free fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
• Exercise Regularly: Engaging in physical activity for approximately 30 minutes daily, or at least 150 minutes per week, helps promote waste elimination from the blood and contributes to stable blood pressure control.
• Avoid Smoking: Studies show smokers are up to three times more likely to develop kidney failure due to toxins in cigarette smoke affecting the heart and kidneys. Quitting smoking reduces risks for yourself and those around you.
• Manage Stress: Chronic stress often leads to insufficient rest, disrupting internal organ systems and contributing to kidney disease.
• Avoid Unnecessary Pain or Anti-inflammatory Medications: Excessive intake of medications, herbs, or supplements, especially pain relievers, particularly for individuals with pre-existing conditions, can negatively impact kidney function and lead to long-term kidney deterioration.
• Control Blood Sugar Levels: Maintaining normal blood sugar and blood pressure, especially for diabetic patients, helps prevent kidney disease. High blood sugar can trigger mechanisms that damage kidney tissue, leading to chronic kidney disease.
• Undergo Annual Health Check-ups: This includes kidney disease screening, particularly for those at risk, to understand your health status and plan long-term care effectively.

 

Partner with Ramkhamhaeng Hospital for Your Kidney Care

     The Internal Medicine Department at Ramkhamhaeng Hospital, with its team of specialized nephrologists, is ready to provide close consultation and treatment. We also offer guidance to help you manage your health and live more comfortably. We aim to ensure patients feel reassured, effectively slowing the progression and complications of kidney failure.