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.
