Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a condition in which the kidneys are not able to function properly, due to deterioration or damage. Your kidneys work to remove waste and extra fluid from the body through the urine. This process is crucial for the maintenance of your body’s salt, potassium, and acid content. In addition to removing waste, the kidneys also produce hormones that help other organs function. CKD develops over time and can present differently depending on the state of the kidney damage.

Symptoms of Kidney Disease

Some common symptoms of kidney damage include weight loss and poor appetite, shortness of breath, swelling in ankles, feet, or hands, lethargy, blood in the urine, insomnia, and more. If you’re concerned about CKD, make an appointment with your doctor and explain your concerns. A physician will determine if further testing is necessary.

Kidney Disease Treatment

While there is no cure for CKD, there are multiple forms of treatment available that can slow the progression of CKD by preventing further kidney damage. Treatment depends on the cause of CKD and the extent of the damage. This may involve medication to treat high blood pressure, edema (swelling), anemia, cholesterol, or bone strength. Your doctor may also recommend special dietary adjustments to reduce waste products in the blood, thereby reducing the strain on your kidneys. For those with end-stage kidney disease, dialysis or kidney transplants can be considered.

For further consultation regarding CKD or its complications, make an appointment to see board-certified nephrologist, Sudip Ghimire, MD, FASN of TPMG Nephrology. To schedule an appointment, call (757) 599-3436.