Due to COVID-19 and for the safety of our facility and patients, we ask that you come into the office with a face mask on and to make sure you do not have a temperature above 100 degrees.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Many patients dont know that they have CKD because usually there are no symptoms until the disease has advanced. People with advanced CKD may experience some of the symptoms listed below : 

Swelling in the legs, ankles or feet

Swelling or puffiness around the eyes

Urine that is foamier or bubblier than usual

Blood in the urine

General tiredness or fatigue

Unusually dry or itchy skin

The most common causes of CKD are high blood pressure (also referred to as hypertension) and diabetes. Most people with high blood pressure do not know that their pressure is high until they have there pressure read at a doctor's office. The same goes for diabetes; most people may not realize they have diabetes until they get their work done. This is why it is extremely important to keep your blood pressure under control as well as your  blood sugar in check. Both can have lasting effects on your kidneys. One of the best plans for kidnbey health is to eat a healthy diet while making sure that you are in a healthy weight range. If you have been prescribed medications for your blood pressure or blood sugar, please continue to take those medications as your doctot has prescibed them. The main takeaway from all of this information, is that the best way to tell if you have kidney disease is to vist your doctor and complete routine labwork. There are lab results that can asses the health of your kidneys. Creatinine and GFR (also known as glomerular rate) are the best lab test to determie kidney health. Although chronic kidney disease is common, it can be treated or even prevente with a healthy lifestyle and the help of your doctor.

 

Author
Dr. Kevin Griffiths Partner, Metro Renal Associates MD, MPH, FASN Medial Director - Fresenius Southern Dialysis and Fresenius Southeast DC dialysis facilities

You Might Also Enjoy...

Why Am I Seeing Blood in My Urine?

Blood from anywhere in your body typically signals a problem, especially if you notice it in the toilet. Read on to discover what causes bloody urine and when to seek help.

What Happens if My Edema Goes Untreated?

Living with kidney disease sometimes results in swelling, or edema, in the arms, legs, and abdomen. But what happens if you don't address it? Read on to discover the consequences of untreated edema in the body.

What Can I Do if I’m Genetically Inclined to Be Obese?

According to the CDC, 41.9% of people in the US are obese — nearly half of the country. Obesity causes severe health issues, many of them preventable. Read on to discover how to keep your weight in check, even if it's in your genes.

Will My Kidney Stone Pass on its Own?

Kidney stones are painful and can take days or weeks to pass through your system, but can every stone pass through your system on its own? Keep reading to learn more about kidney stones and when you require surgical treatment.

The Dangers of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a severe medical condition with dire consequences when left untreated. Keep reading to discover the dangers of high blood pressure and how to control your blood pressure to stay healthy.