Kidney Diseases

Kidney diseases refer to conditions that impair the kidneys' ability to filter waste and maintain fluid balance, leading to complications like kidney failure. These diseases can result from conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, infections, or genetic factors. Early detection is crucial to prevent progression to chronic kidney disease (CKD) or kidney failure.

Risk Factors:

•  Diabetes & High blood pressure
• Family history of kidney disease
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Age (older adults are at higher risk)
• Chronic infections (e.g., urinary tract infections)
• Heart disease
• Dehydration
• Overuse of medications (e.g., NSAIDs, certain antibiotics)
• Poor diet (high in sodium, low in fibre)
• High cholesterol
• Polycystic kidney disease (genetic disorder)
• Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus)
• Kidney stones
• Excessive alcohol consumption             

Symptoms:

·       Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet

·       Fatigue or weakness

·       Changes in urine output (frequency, colour, or appearance)

·       High blood pressure

·       Nausea or vomiting

·       Shortness of breath

·       Pain in the lower back

Prevention and Early Detection:

• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
• Control blood sugar and blood pressure
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Stay hydrated and avoid excessive salt intake
• Avoid overuse of medications that may harm the kidneys (e.g., NSAIDs)
• Regular kidney function tests

Diagnosis and Staging:

·       Calcium: Elevated levels may indicate kidney problems, as the kidneys are responsible for regulating calcium levels in the blood

·       Urea/Serum Creatinine Ratio: This ratio helps assess kidney function; an elevated ratio may indicate kidney damage or dehydration

·       BUN/Serum Creatinine Ratio: Used to evaluate kidney function, with higher ratios suggesting dehydration or impaired kidney function

·       Uric Acid: High levels can indicate kidney dysfunction, especially in conditions like gout

·       Serum Creatinine: Measures kidney function; elevated levels suggest poor kidney function or damage

·       Urea Calculated: Helps assess the kidneys' ability to filter waste; elevated levels indicate potential kidney impairment

·       BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen): Elevated levels indicate kidney dysfunction or dehydration, as the kidneys are responsible for clearing urea from the blood

Why Regular Screening Matters?

Early detection of kidney disease is essential for preventing further damage and complications, including kidney failure. Regular screenings help identify problems before symptoms develop, allowing for timely treatment and management.