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Why learn about chronic kidney disease?
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the gradual loss of kidney function, causing high levels of fluid, electrolytes, and waste products in your body. If you or a loved one have CKD, it’s important to educate yourself so that you can:
Better understand your labs and treatment plans as they change
Slow the progression of kidney damage
Better handle the physical, emotional, and financial changes
Prepare for the future
WHAT DO YOUR KIDNEYS DO?
Your kidneys filter excess fluids and waste from your blood, and remove them through your urine. The kidneys balance your body fluids, regulate blood chemistry (i.e. acid-base, sodium, phosphorus, potassium). regulate blood pressure, ensure bone health, and support overall heart and blood vessel function.
What are the causes of chronic kidney disease?
Causes of chronic kidney disease include diabetes (most common cause), high blood pressure, medications (NSAIDs, chemotherapy, contrast dyes), infections, poor heart function, recurrent acute kidney injuries, and autoimmune conditions.
What are the symptoms of chronic kidney disease?
As kidney damage progresses slowly, the following signs and symptoms may develop over time:
Fatigue
Mood changes
Change in taste or metallic taste
Shortness of breath
Decrease in appetite
Swelling
Nausea and/or vomiting
Dry, itchy skin
What’s the difference between chronic kidney disease and acute kidney INJURY?
Chronic kidney disease is non-reversible and has a progressive decline (variable progression rates), meaning it may worsen over an extended period of time. Acute kidney injury generally develops suddenly and lasts a short amount of time. It can be reversible OR can become chronic.
What are the stages of chronic kidney disease?
After testing, we evaluate your CKD labs and look for the following:
Creatinine: Normal levels are between 0.6 - 1.2. This number typically increases with the progression of kidney disease.
GFR (glomerular filtration rate): Normal levels are over 90. These numbers may be lower with age and decrease with progression of kidney disease. The GFR is used to stage kidney disease.
What happens if you reach stage 5 of chronic kidney disease?
Stage 5 CKD signifies that your kidneys are severely damaged and are functioning below 10-15%. People are more likely to feel poorly because of their kidney disease at this stage, as their symptom burden increases.
Treatment options include:
Kidney transplant
Peritoneal dialysis
Hemodialysis
Conservative kidney management
Medical management
Palliative care
Hospice referral when appropriate
How can InterMed Consultants help you through your kidney care?
InterMed Consultants has been providing renowned kidney care in the Minneapolis area, as well as greater Minnesota, since 1979. From new patient consultations to ongoing follow-up and education, we provide expert care for all of your kidney needs.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at (952) 920-2070.