Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition that occurs when the kidneys are unable to filter waste products from the blood effectively. This can lead to a buildup of toxins in the body and potentially serious complications.
Causes:
There are several possible causes of chronic kidney disease, including:
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Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys and impair their ability to filter waste.
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High blood pressure: Elevated blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys and reduce their function.
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Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the small blood vessels in the kidneys, which can impair their function.
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Polycystic kidney disease: A genetic condition that causes cysts to develop in the kidneys, leading to reduced function.
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Prolonged use of certain medications: Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and some antibiotics, can damage the kidneys if used for extended periods.
Dosha:
According to Ayurveda, chronic kidney disease is associated with an imbalance of the Vata dosha. Vata represents the air and ether elements, and an excess of Vata in the body can lead to dryness and depletion of the tissues, including the kidneys.
Danger without treatment:
Chronic kidney disease can lead to serious complications, such as high blood pressure, anemia, bone disease, nerve damage, and heart disease. Without treatment, CKD can progress to end-stage renal disease, which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant to manage.
Symptoms:
Chronic kidney disease may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, but as the condition progresses, symptoms may include:
- Fatigue or weakness
- Swelling in the hands or feet
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Changes in urine output
- Difficulty sleeping
- Muscle cramps or twitches
- Itchy skin
- High blood pressure
Precautions:
Here are ten precautions that may help prevent or manage chronic kidney disease:
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Manage underlying health conditions: If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, managing these conditions is crucial for preventing or managing chronic kidney disease.
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Monitor medications: Certain medications can be harmful to the kidneys, so it’s important to monitor the use of any prescription or over-the-counter medications.
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Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush waste products from the body and reduce the risk of kidney damage.
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Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight can increase the risk of developing diabetes and high blood pressure, which can damage the kidneys.
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Eat a healthy diet: A diet that is low in salt, sugar, and processed foods and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help support kidney function.
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Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight, lower blood pressure, and improve overall health.
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Avoid tobacco and alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of kidney damage and worsen symptoms of chronic kidney disease.
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Manage stress: Stress can affect overall health and may worsen symptoms of chronic kidney disease, so finding ways to manage stress can be helpful.
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Get regular check-ups: Regular monitoring of kidney function can help identify problems early and prevent further damage.
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Follow treatment recommendations: If you have chronic kidney disease, it’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for treatment and management, including medications, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring.
WHO facts:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), chronic kidney disease is a growing global health problem, affecting an estimated 10% of the population worldwide. In addition to the physical and emotional toll on individuals with CKD, the condition
