Kidney Disease: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Prevention

 🔍 Introduction

Kidney disease is a growing global health problem that affects millions of people every year. The kidneys are essential organs that filter waste, maintain electrolyte balance, and regulate blood pressure. When they stop functioning properly, waste builds up in the body and can lead to serious complications.

🩺 What Is Kidney Disease?

Kidney disease refers to the slow or sudden loss of kidney function.
It can be:

• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) – sudden damage, reversible with treatment.

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) – long-term progressive damage.

CKD is often called the “silent killer” because symptoms appear late.

📌 Common Causes of Kidney Disease

1. Diabetes (Diabetic Nephropathy)

High blood sugar damages nephrons, leading to gradual kidney failure.

2. High Blood Pressure

Uncontrolled hypertension weakens blood vessels in the kidneys.

3. Infections

UTI, pyelonephritis, and viral infections can cause kidney injury.

4. Kidney Stones

Frequent or untreated stones may cause obstruction and infection.

5. Genetic Conditions

Such as Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD).

6. Long-term Painkiller Use

NSAIDs (ibuprofen, diclofenac, etc.) may harm kidneys over time.

⚠️ Symptoms of Kidney Disease

Symptoms often appear only when >60% of kidney function is lost.

• Swelling of feet, face, and hands

• Fatigue & weakness

• Foamy urine (proteinuria)

• Frequent urination (especially at night)

• Loss of appetite

• High blood pressure

• Blood in urine

• Nausea / vomiting

🧪 Diagnosis of Kidney Disease

Doctors perform several tests to check kidney function:

1. Blood Tests

• Serum Creatinine

• eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate)

• BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen)

2. Urine Tests

• Urine Albumin (Protein)

• ACR (Albumin–Creatinine Ratio)

• Urine microscopy

3. Imaging

• Ultrasound of kidneys

• CT scan (if needed)

4. Kidney Biopsy

Used in suspected glomerulonephritis or unknown cause.

🩹 Treatment of Kidney Disease

Treatment depends on the stage and cause.

1. Lifestyle & Diet

• Reduce salt & sugar

• Control blood pressure

• Drink adequate water

• Avoid painkillers

• Stop smoking

2. Medications

• Blood pressure control (ACE inhibitors/ARBs)

• Diabetes control

• Diuretics for swelling

• Antibiotics for infections

3. Advanced Treatment

• Dialysis

• Kidney Transplant

🛡️ Prevention Tips

• Check blood sugar & BP regularly

• Exercise 30 minutes daily

• Maintain healthy weight

• Avoid unnecessary antibiotics or painkillers

• Drink 8–10 glasses of water unless restricted by doctor

• Get regular kidney tests after age 40

📘 Conclusion

Kidney disease is preventable and manageable if detected early. Regular health checkups, a balanced lifestyle, and awareness about risk factors can protect your kidneys and improve quality of life.

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