Major Kidney Problems You Should Look Out For

1. Major Kidney Problems You Should Look Out For The kidneys are a pair of significant organs located in the back of the abdominal cavity that play a major role in filtering waste products from the blood, regulating blood pressure, and maintaining the balance of various minerals in the body. Despite their importance, many people are unaware of the various kidney diseases that can affect their health. Here are some of the most common kidney diseases you should look out for: Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)- AKI is a sudden and temporary reduction in kidney function that can occur as a result of a variety of factors, such as dehydration, certain medications, or other underlying medical conditions. Symptoms of AKI include decreased urine output, swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet, fatigue, and confusion. The primary cause of AKI is a lack of blood flow to the kidneys, which can be caused by low blood pressure, severe dehydration, or a blockage in the urinary tract. ● Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) CKD is a long-term and progressive loss of kidney function that occurs over several months or years. The main cause of CKD is uncontrolled high blood pressure or uncontrolled diabetes, although other factors such as genetics and certain medications can also contribute to the development of the disease. Symptoms of CKD include fatigue, swelling, anaemia, and an increased risk of heart disease. ● Glomerulonephritis Glomerulonephritis causes inflammation of the small filters inside the kidneys, known as glomeruli. This condition can be triggered by a variety of factors, including autoimmune diseases, bacterial infections, and certain medications. Symptoms of glomerulonephritis include foamy urine, blood in the urine, and high blood pressure. ● Nephrotic Syndrome A nephrotic syndrome comprises multiple symptoms that occur when the kidneys face a leak of large amounts of protein into the urine. The primary cause of the nephrotic syndrome is unknown, but it can be associated with conditions such as diabetes, lupus, or an infection. Symptoms of nephrotic syndrome include swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet, foamy urine, and weight gain. ● Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) PKD is an inherited condition in which fluid-filled cysts form in the kidneys and enlarge over time, leading to a gradual loss of kidney function. PKD is usually diagnosed in adulthood, and symptoms include pain in the side, blood in the urine, and a feeling of fullness in the back or lower abdomen. ●

2. Treatment and Remedies The treatment and remedies for kidney diseases vary depending on the kind and severity of the condition. Some of the most common treatments include: 1. Medications: Certain medications, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), and diuretics, can help control high blood pressure and prevent further damage to the kidneys. 2. Lifestyle Changes: Making healthy lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, losing weight, and engaging in regular physical activity can help improve kidney function and reduce the risk of developing kidney disease. 3. Dialysis: It is a procedure that filters waste products from the blood and replaces the work of the kidneys in patients with severe kidney disease. Dialysis can be performed in a hospital or at home and typically involves the use of a machine that removes waste from the blood. 4. Kidney Transplant: In some cases, a kidney transplant may be necessary for patients with end-stage kidney disease. A kidney transplant involves surgically removing a healthy kidney from a donor and planting it inside a person with damaged kidneys. You can visit the best kidney transplant hospital in India for an advanced system of kidney transplants. Kidneys also help in regulating electrolyte balance and blood pressure as well as produce hormones that regulate red blood cells and promote bone health. So keep them safe! If you’re looking for first-class nephrology services, visit Parul Sevashram Hospital, which happens to be one of the best nephrology hospitals in India.