Kidney Disease Care

What is chronic kidney disease?

Chronic kidney disease is a serious health problem that results in a gradual loss of kidney function: your kidneys filter wastes and excess fluids from your body. When left untreated, chronic kidney disease can cause electrolytes and debris to build up in your body, increasing your risk of premature death.

Chronic kidney disease doesn’t always present obvious symptoms early on. As a result, you might be at risk and not even realize it. Regular check-ups with your primary care physician can alert you in the early stages when treatment is most effective.

What are the symptoms of chronic kidney disease?

The symptoms of chronic kidney disease vary and depend on the underlying cause. Common indications include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue and weakness
• Sleep disturbances
• Muscle twitches and cramps
• Persistent itching
• Chest pain

As chronic kidney disease gets worse, you might also experience shortness of breath or high blood pressure that’s difficult to control. 

Is there any way to prevent chronic kidney disease?

Unfortunately, there’s no way to prevent chronic kidney disease entirely, but you can take steps to lower your risk significantly. The team at Nguyen Medical Group recommends maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and working with a doctor to manage your medical conditions. It’s also important to follow instructions on over-the-counter medicines.

How is chronic kidney disease diagnosed?

To diagnose chronic kidney disease, your Nguyen Medical Group provider conducts a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks about your symptoms and lifestyle. They also order blood tests, urinalysis, and imaging tests to check for problems with your heart, blood vessels, and urinary system.

In rare instances, a biopsy may be necessary. During a biopsy, your Nguyen Medical Group provider surgically removes a piece of kidney tissue and sends it to a laboratory for further testing.

Are there different types of kidney disease care?

Treatment of chronic kidney disease focuses on three areas: controlling symptoms, reducing complications, and slowing the progression of the disease. Usually, this includes a combination of prescription medication, regular medical check-ups, and healthy lifestyle changes.

If you have mild or moderate kidney disease, you might benefit from eating a balanced, low-protein diet, getting regular exercise, and taking high blood pressure or high cholesterol medications. For more serious cases of chronic kidney disease, dialysis or a kidney transplant may be necessary.

To schedule a kidney disease care appointment at Nguyen Medical Group, call the office or book a consultation online today.