Chronic Kidney Disease: Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to function normally. As a crucial part of the body’s filtration system, the kidneys help remove waste, maintain fluid balance, and regulate blood pressure. When their function declines, it can lead to serious health complications. With increasing urbanization and lifestyle changes, CKD has become a growing concern in metro cities across India. Early detection, preventive strategies, and medical management can help slow the disease’s progression and improve quality of life.

Table of Contents

Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease

CKD develops over time, often without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. It results from conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain genetic disorders that impair kidney function. Without timely intervention, CKD can progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Functions of Healthy Kidneys:

• Balance water and essential minerals like sodium, potassium, and phosphorus
• Remove waste from the blood
• Regulate blood pressure through hormone production
• Support red blood cell production via erythropoietin
• Activate vitamin D for bone health

When Chronic Kidney Disease sets these essential functions become compromised, leading to multiple health concerns.

Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease

Kidney disease symptoms often appear gradually, making routine checkups essential for early detection. Some common signs include:

• Fatigue and Weakness
  The buildup of toxins in the blood leads to persistent tiredness.
• Swelling (Edema)
  Fluid retention can cause swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs.
• Changes in Urination
  Increased frequency, foamy urine (indicating protein loss), or blood in the urine are warning signs.
• High Blood Pressure
  Both a cause and consequence of CKD, it damages kidney blood vessels.
• Nausea and Vomiting
  An overload of waste in the blood can cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Muscle Cramps
  Electrolyte imbalances trigger muscle spasms and cramps.
• Itchy Skin
  Toxin buildup can cause persistent skin irritation.
• Difficulty Concentrating
  Impaired kidney function may result in cognitive fog and poor concentration.

Prevention of Chronic Kidney Disease

While CKD is not always preventable, adopting a kidney-friendly lifestyle can significantly lower the risk and slow disease progression.

• Diet and Nutrition
  • Reduce Sodium Intake:
    Excess salt can elevate blood pressure and strain kidney function.
  • Limit Protein Consumption
    Excess protein puts stress on the kidneys; a balanced intake is essential.
  • Consume Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
    These provide essential nutrients and antioxidants.
  • Avoid High Phosphorus and Potassium Foods
    Imbalances can worsen kidney function.
• Regular Exercise
  Engaging in moderate exercise such as walking, yoga, or cycling helps control blood pressure, maintain a healthy weight, and improve overall cardiovascular health.
• Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol Intake
  • Smoking accelerates kidney damage by impairing blood flow.
  • Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of kidney disease.

Diagnosis of Chronic Kidney Disease

Since CKD often remains undetected in its early stages, routine screening is essential, especially for individuals with diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease. Diagnosis involves blood tests, urine tests, imaging tests as well as kidney biopsy when required.

Treatment of Chronic Kidney Disease at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai

Chronic Kidney Disease is a silent but serious condition that can significantly impact health and quality of life. Early detection through routine health screenings, lifestyle modifications, and medical management can help slow disease progression. While there is no cure for CKD, certain medications and interventions focus on slowing disease progression, managing symptoms, and preventing complications.

For patients with advanced CKD or ESRD, dialysis (either hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) or a kidney transplant may become necessary. A transplant offers a long-term solution, but eligibility depends on various factors, including overall health and donor availability. Our Department of Nephrology is equipped with one of Mumbai’s largest dialysis unit, with the latest technology, that provides all types of dialysis. Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai has a dedicated transplant ward with a highly trained team of specialists and has performed over 280 kidney transplant surgeries in the past. Preserve your kidney health and reach out to our team for further medical assistance. https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/nephrology.html

Kidney disease, often dubbed the “silent killer,” affects millions worldwide, with a staggering 10% of the Indian population grappling with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Kidney disease means your kidneys are malfunctioning and are beginning to lose their function. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) worsens over time. There’s no cure for CKD, but there’s hope in prevention through lifestyle changes and early diagnosis awareness around kidney disorders.

Understanding Kidney Disease

The kidneys serve as the body’s filtration system, eliminating waste and excess fluids. When they falter, toxins accumulate, leading to a range of health issues. Diagnosis typically involves blood and urine tests to gauge waste product levels. Symptoms like swelling, headaches, changes in urination and fatigue may signal kidney trouble which needs further diagnosis and care.

Healthy Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Kidney Disease

While genetics play a role, adopting healthy habits can significantly mitigate the risk of kidney disease. These include:

• Limit Salt Intake
  Certain foods that are loaded with salt can strain your kidneys. Keep your sodium intake to less than 2,000 milligrams per day. Avoid fast foods, processed foods and packaged foods that are loaded with salt. Cook healthy meals at home with minimal salt and use other herbs for flavour.
• Avoid High Protein diets
  One serving of protein, or roughly the size of a deck of cards, should be consumed at each meal as a general guideline. Your kidneys will have to work extra hard if you take any more.
• Choose foods low in Saturated fats
  Individuals with kidney disease face heightened susceptibility to heart disease, emphasizing the importance of monitoring cholesterol levels. Opt for foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol, such as fish, lean meats, egg substitutes, and spreads, in lieu of butter and margarine.
• Exercise Regularly
  Physical activity aids in maintaining healthy blood pressure, cardiovascular health, and weight management – all pivotal for kidney health. Prioritize at least30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days of the week.
• Avoid Alcohol and Quit Smoking
  Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking impair your kidney function. Quitting smoking and alcohol intake can preserve your kidney health.
• Stay Hydrated
  Water is essential for kidney function, aiding in toxin clearance. Aim for at least eight glasses daily, adjusting based on individual needs.
• Get Regular Check-ups
  Routine health check-ups facilitate early detection of kidney issues. Those with risk factors like diabetes or high blood pressure should be especially vigilant.

Early Detection of Kidney Disease

Early diagnosis plays a pivotal role in the effective management of kidney disease. Detecting kidney issues in their nascent stages enables timely intervention, significantly improving treatment outcomes and prognosis. With prompt diagnosis, healthcare providers can implement targeted strategies to slow disease progression, alleviate symptoms, and preserve kidney function. Moreover, early detection empowers individuals with kidney disease to make informed lifestyle changes and adhere to tailored treatment plans, mitigating the risk of complications and enhancing quality of life. Regular screening and vigilant monitoring of kidney health, especially for those with risk factors like diabetes or hypertension, are essential for early identification of any abnormalities.

Kidney Disease Treatment at KokilabenDhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Nephrologists at our Department of Nephrology are dedicated to supporting individuals in their journey towards optimal kidney health. Whether you’re seeking guidance or ready to embark on lifestyle changes, our team is here to assist. We are equipped with Mumbai’s largest dialysis unit, with 42 machines and the most advanced technology to support all types of dialysis. Early detection and appropriate treatment are crucial in slowing the disease process, with the goal of preventing or delaying kidney failure. Our Centre for Transplant has a dedicated team of surgeons and nephrologists and has successfully performed over 197 kidney transplants in the past. For more information please visit: www.kokilabenhospital.com

Statistics suggest that over 12% of the total population in India suffers from kidney stones. A kidney stone is a solid, pebble-like piece of material that can form in one or both of your kidneys when high levels of certain minerals accumulate in your urine. They are one of the most painful and common urinary tract problems. These stones are formed by the buildup of minerals and salts in the kidneys, which can cause intense pain when they pass through the ureter and bladder.

Causes of Kidney Stones

While there is no exact cause behind kidney stones, in majority of the cases, these are formed due to the high concentration of minerals in the urine. Here are some of the most common causes behind kidney stones:

• Dehydration
  When your body doesn’t get enough water, it can lead to the formation of kidney stones.
• Diet
  Eating a diet high in salt, sugar, and animal protein can increase your risk of developing kidney stones.
• Genetics
  If someone in your family has had kidney stones, you are more likely to develop them too.
• Medical Conditions
  Certain medical conditions such as gout, hyperparathyroidism, and Crohn’s disease can increase your risk of developing kidney stones.

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

The symptoms of kidney stones can vary depending on the size and location of the stone. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Severe pain in the back, side, or groin.
• Painful urination.
• Difficulty passing urine
• A feeling of intense need to urinate.
• Urine that is dark or red due to blood.
• Nausea and vomiting.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Diagnosis of Kidney Stones

If your doctor suspects that you have kidney stones, they will likely order a series of tests to confirm the diagnosis. These may include:

• Urine test
  This can help identify any infections or abnormalities in the urine.
• Blood test
  This can help determine if there is an infection or other medical condition present.
• X-ray
  This can help identify the size and location of the kidney stone.
• CT scan
  This is a more detailed imaging test that can help identify the size and location of the kidney stone more accurately.

Precautions for Kidney Stones

If you have a history of kidney stones or are at risk for developing them, there are some precautions you can take to reduce your risk. With the right foods, plenty of water, and proper medication, you can lower your chances of getting them. These include:

• Drinking plenty of water
  This can help flush out minerals and salts that can lead to the formation of kidney stones.
• Eating a healthy diet
  This means limiting your intake of salt, sugar, and animal protein, and increasing your intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Avoiding certain medications
  Some medications such as diuretics and antacids can increase your risk of developing kidney stones.
• Managing medical conditions
  If you have a medical condition that increases your risk of developing kidney stones, such as gout or hyperparathyroidism, it is important to manage it properly.

Treatment for Kidney Stones

If you are diagnosed with kidney stones, there are several treatment options available which include pain medication, Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) or ureteroscopy – a minimally invasive procedure. Consult a urologist to understand your treatment options better.

Kidney Stone treatment at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai

Troubled with recurrent kidney stones? Our Department of Urology is equipped with the latest ESWL (Lithotripsy) machine that is used to treat kidney stones. This is a non-invasive procedure that uses shock waves to break up the kidney stone into smaller pieces that can be passed more easily. Our state-of-the-art urology unit also offers minimally invasive, scarless options for safe removal of kidney stones. Consult our team for the right advice to help manage your kidney stones. Please find below the website link for further details: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/urology.html

In India, the estimated incidence of kidney cancer is around 2/100,000 people (males) and approximately 1/100,000 people (females). Kidney cancer treatment options vary depending on the severity of cancer present, the size, and location of the tumour. Dr. Santosh S. Waigankar – Consultant, Urologic Oncology & Robotic Surgery shares some of the common myths and facts concerning kidney cancers and their various aspects:

Myth: Kidney cancer primarily affects young people.
Fact: Not entirely a myth. Some cancers do disproportionally affect younger people, but, kidney cancer is not one of them. The average age of diagnosis being 64. Thought present Indian study suggests more prevalence in the younger population with one-third being less than 50years of age. Having said that changing lifestyle and food habits, more executive health check-ups lead to diagnosis of kidney cancers at an early stage and in younger generations. Familial cancers are a rare entity where early age could be affected.

Myth: Kidney cancer is rare.
Fact: Kidney cancer is one of the ten most common cancers in both men and women. Early cancers are picked up by the increase in the health check-ups done annually.

Myth: Smoking does not contribute to Kidney cancer.
Fact: In fact – smoking doubles the risk of developing kidney cancer – and is believed to cause about 30% of kidney cancers in men and about 25% in women.

Myth: Women are at higher risk of developing kidney cancer.
Fact: Kidney cancer is about twice as common in men as in women. Why? Increased smoking and exposure to cancer-causing toxins at the workplace may account for much of the difference.

Myth: Blood in the urine is a sure indication of kidney cancer.
Fact: Blood-coloured or burgundy urine can be a symptom of kidney cancer – but it can also be a sign of noncancerous conditions like a urinary tract infection (UTI). The underlying message is that it should not be overlooked or neglected. However, while red-coloured urine should never be ignored simultaneously, do not think it means cancer always.

Myth: Your kidneys are fine if you have no obvious discomfort like difficulty urinating.
Fact: Lack of external symptoms does not mean that a person does not have kidney disease. Why? Because kidney conditions typically do not present any symptoms until they have progressed to an advanced stage. If you do have symptoms – be sure to consult a doctor or healthcare provider.

Myth: Kidney cancers are not curable
Fact: With the available diagnostic modalities, kidney cancer can be picked up at an early stage, and kidney-sparing surgeries can be offered. This can help a patient avoid losing his kidney and have a near-normal life with regular follow-up.

Myth: Kidney cancer amounts to the removal of the entire kidney always.
Fact: No. With a better understanding of the disease process and newer technology, entire kidney need not be removed. Only the tumour is removed, and the kidney remains in the body. This is called kidney-sparing surgery.

Myth: Kidney cancer can’t be diagnosed early.
Fact: With increasing health awareness and people resorting to annual check-ups, kidney cancers can be picked by even routine ultrasound and urine tests. Early diagnosis leads to earlier treatment and prolonged life for the patient. Everyone needs to vigilant.

Myth: Kidney cancers are not hereditary.
Fact: Meagre percentage of kidney cancers can be familial (2-3%). Patients with a family history of kidney cancers should be vigilant and seek advice from their physician.

Myth: Robotic surgery in kidney cancer has no advantages.
Fact: Robotic platform provides increased magnification and dexterity to a surgeon in performing kidney surgeries, especially kidney-sparing surgeries. The 10x magnification improves accuracy & precision of surgery, amounting to lesser blood loss, early return to routine work/job, and better cancer outcomes for the patients in the long term.

Myth: Robotic surgery is costly as compared to laparoscopic or open surgery.
Fact: The IRDAI, India’s insurance regulatory authority, has approved the inclusion of robotic surgery in insurance coverage. Maximum people can take advantage of this technology which is already established in the world around. Moreover, when we compare surgery costs, we do not consider the costs that the patient faces for being hospitalized for a long time after an open surgery or the costs due to late return to the job, which we call disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).

Myth: Kidney cancer patients should refrain from taking the flu vaccine.
Fact: Patients with kidney cancer should receive the influenza vaccine, whichever is recommended as per their national guidelines. Many of our patients with kidney cancer are receiving targeted treatments or immunotherapies and they tolerate the influenza vaccine well without having any complications. But, as always, they should follow the advice of their treating physician.

Treatment at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital
Avail of world-class technology and surgical expertise in treating even the most complex cases of kidney cancer at our Centre for Cancer. Since kidney cancer needs a multidisciplinary team approach, we have a tumour board made up of uro-oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, oncopathologists, and radiologists who make decisions based on international guidelines. The uro-oncology service of the Centre for Cancer has performed over 250 kidney cancer surgeries in the past and now is also equipped with the Da Vinci Robotic System. For further information please visit: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com

About the Author:
Dr. Santosh S. Waigankar is a Consultant, Urologic Oncology & Robotic Surgery at Kokilaben Hospital specializing in Open/Laparoscopic and Robotic Urooncological Surgeries. He is board certified in Genitourinary Surgery and is the 1st Vattikuti Fellow in Robotic Urooncology in India. Find out more by visiting: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/professionals/santoshwaigankar.html