More than 14% of adults in the United States have chronic kidney disease (CKD), but most people don’t know they have it.
That’s because CKD often causes no symptoms until it becomes very serious. By the time someone notices signs, their kidneys might already be close to failure.
Dr. Michael Shlipak, a kidney health expert from the University of California, San Francisco, explains that early detection is the key to managing this disease. CKD can’t be cured, but catching it early can slow it down and help prevent serious complications.
Your kidneys are small but powerful organs. Every day, they filter around 150 quarts of blood, removing waste and extra fluids from your body. When kidneys are not working well, harmful substances build up in the blood, leading to problems like heart disease, weak bones, nerve damage, and even complete kidney failure.
There are several reasons why people get CKD. The most common causes are diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Being overweight, having infections, or certain types of cancer also increase your risk. Taking too many painkillers like ibuprofen for long periods can also damage your kidneys.
Genetics also play a role. If your family has a history of kidney disease, you might be at higher risk. That’s why doctors recommend that people with risk factors get regular blood and urine tests, even if they feel fine.
Dr. Jonathan Himmelfarb from Mount Sinai in New York City says that kidney disease can affect every part of the body. People with CKD may notice swelling in the legs, ankles, hands, or face. As the disease gets worse, they might feel tired, lose their appetite, have nausea, or experience muscle cramps.
Other signs include weight loss, chest pain, trouble breathing, and even difficulty focusing. In later stages, the disease can also damage the heart and brain.
If you are diagnosed with CKD, your doctor will probably recommend changes in your lifestyle. A healthier diet is often one of the first steps. You may need to eat less salt, potassium, and phosphorus.
Some people also need to limit their protein intake. These changes depend on how advanced your kidney disease is and whether you have other health issues. Processed foods, which are often high in harmful ingredients, should also be avoided.
Dr. Meryl Waldman, a nutrition and kidney expert at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), says that making better food choices can help people with CKD feel more in control. Instead of feeling helpless, patients can take an active role in managing their health.
Besides diet, your doctor may suggest more exercise, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and finding ways to reduce stress. You may also need medications to help your kidneys work better or to manage related conditions like high blood pressure.
If kidney function continues to decline, some people may need dialysis. This is a treatment where a machine filters the blood several times a week. In some cases, a kidney transplant might be an option.
If you think you might be at risk, talk to your doctor. Ask how often you should have your kidneys tested, whether your blood sugar and pressure levels are healthy, and if any of your medications need to be adjusted. You can also ask if you should change your diet or see a kidney specialist.
Chronic kidney disease is common, but it can often be managed with the right care. Knowing your risk and taking action early can help protect your health.
If you care about kidney health, please read studies about how to protect your kidneys from diabetes, and drinking coffee could help reduce risk of kidney injury.
For more information about kidney health, please see recent studies about foods that may prevent recurrence of kidney stones, and eating nuts linked to lower risk of chronic kidney disease and death.
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