What are Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition characterized by the gradual loss of kidney function over time. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste products and excess fluids from the blood, regulating blood pressure, and producing hormones that control various bodily functions. CKD can develop over months or years and is often asymptomatic in the early stages.Common causes of CKD include diabetes, high blood pressure, glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, and certain other medical conditions or genetic factors. Early detection, lifestyle modifications, and appropriate management are key to slowing the progression of CKD and preventing complications such as kidney failure.

Common Symptoms of a Chronic Kidney Disease​

Fatigue

Persistent fatigue or weakness, often due to anemia associated with reduced kidney function.

Fluid Retention

Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or face (edema), caused by fluid retention and impaired kidney function.

Shortness of Breath

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, especially with exertion, due to fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema).

Changes in Urination

Changes in urination patterns, including increased frequency, decreased urine output, or foamy or bubbly urine.

Blood in Urine

Presence of blood in the urine (hematuria), often indicative of kidney damage or inflammation.

Hypertension

High blood pressure, which can worsen kidney function and increase the risk of complications.

Whom to Consult?​ and When to Consult?​

If you experience symptoms suggestive of chronic kidney disease or have risk factors for kidney disease, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation and appropriate management at SRM Global Hospitals.
Dr. S. Krishna Kumar

Dr. S. Krishna Kumar

MBBS, MD, DM

Senior Consultant

Dr. Tanuj Moses Lamech

Dr. Tanuj Moses Lamech

MBBS, MD, DM, DNB

Visiting Consultant

Dr. Mathew Gerry George

Dr. Mathew Gerry George

MBBS, MD, DNB

Visiting Consultant

Dr. Jayaprakash. V

Dr. Jayaprakash. V

MBBS, MD, DM, DNB

Visiting Consultant

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Common FAQs About Chronic Kidney Disease

Q: What causes chronic kidney disease?

A: Chronic kidney disease can have various causes, including diabetes, high blood pressure, glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, autoimmune diseases, congenital kidney disorders, urinary tract obstructions, or prolonged exposure to certain medications or toxins.

Q: How is chronic kidney disease diagnosed?

A: Diagnosis of chronic kidney disease typically involves a medical history, physical examination, blood tests (such as serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR], and electrolyte levels), urine tests (such as urinalysis and urine protein), imaging studies (such as ultrasound or CT scan), and sometimes kidney biopsy to assess kidney function and identify underlying causes or complications.

Q: What is the treatment for chronic kidney disease?

A: Treatment for chronic kidney disease aims to slow disease progression, manage symptoms, and prevent complications. It may include lifestyle modifications (such as dietary changes, exercise, smoking cessation), medications to control blood pressure, blood sugar, or cholesterol levels, treatment of underlying medical conditions, dialysis, or kidney transplantation for end-stage kidney disease.

Q: Can chronic kidney disease be prevented?

A: While not all cases of chronic kidney disease can be prevented, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, managing underlying medical conditions (such as diabetes and hypertension), avoiding tobacco use, maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and seeking prompt medical evaluation and treatment for kidney-related symptoms or risk factors can help reduce the risk of developing chronic kidney disease.