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Understand Chronic Kidney Disease
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Chronic Kidney Disease a.k.a CKD corresponds to the inability of the kidneys to properly perform their functions. To live well with this condition, it is essential to understand its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
WHAT IS THE FUNCTION OF THE KIDNEYS ?
The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine. They perform several essential functions for the body:
Blood filtration: ils éliminent les toxines et les déchets métaboliques en produisant l’urine.19
Water balance: They regulate the amount of water and mineral salts (sodium, potassium) in the body.19,20
Blood pressure regulation: They control blood volume and are the site of the renin-angiotensin system, which regulates blood pressure.20
Hormone production: They contribute to the production of erythropoietin (EPO), which stimulates red blood cell production, and activate vitamin D, which is essential for bone health.21
When they no longer function properly, these roles are impaired, leading to consequences throughout the entire body.
WHAT IS KIDNEY FAILURE ?
Chronic kidney disease is a condition characterized by a progressive decline in kidney function. It is often silent in the early stages and can develop slowly over several years. 20
Acute kidney failure is a sudden and rapid decline in kidney function, often caused by an infection, severe dehydration, urinary obstruction, or certain nephrotoxic medications. Although it is often reversible with appropriate treatment, in some cases, it can become irreversible, leading to stage 5 chronic kidney disease requiring dialysis or transplantation.25
The 5 stages of CKD20 :
- Stage 1: Kidney damage with normal kidney function (Glomerular Filtration Rate > 90 mL/min). Few or no symptoms.
- Stage 2: Onset of mild kidney failure (Filtration between 60 and 89 mL/min). Medical monitoring is recommended.
- Stage 3: Moderate kidney failure (Filtration between 30 and 59 mL/min). The first symptoms may appear.
- Stage 4: Severe kidney failure (Filtration between 15 and 29 mL/min). Preparation for a replacement therapy (dialysis or transplant) should be considered.
- Stage 5: End-stage kidney failure (Filtration < 15 mL/min). Dialysis or a kidney transplant becomes essential.
Early detection and regular monitoring help slow disease progression and better anticipate appropriate treatments.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF CKD ?
Kidney failure often progresses without visible signs in the early stages. Symptoms usually appear when kidney function is already impaired.22 :
Physical signs:
- Severe and unexplained fatigue:
- Edema (swelling of the ankles, feet, or face)
- Decrease in urine output:
- Shortness of breath or muscle pain
Digestive and metabolic disorders:
- Loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting:
- Metallic taste in the mouth:
- Persistent skin itching:
Effects on blood pressure and circulation:
- High blood pressure:
- Anemia and constant feeling of cold:
These symptoms should be reported to a doctor promptly to adjust the treatment.
QUELLES SONT LES CAUSES DE l’IRC ?
Several factors can cause chronic kidney disease.23 :
Underlying diseases:
- Diabetes (type 1 and 2), the leading cause for CKD
- High blood pressure:, which gradually damages the small blood vessels in the kidneys.
- Autoimmune diseases:such as lupus, which attack the kidneys.
- Pyelonephritis (kidney infection), which can cause kidney inflammation and directly damage kidney tissues.
Genetic and hereditary factors:
- Polycystic kidney disease, a hereditary condition that causes cyst formation on the kidneys.
- Some hereditary glomerulonephritis (such as Alport syndrome), which leads to kidney inflammation.
External and toxic causes:
- Prolonged use of certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- Exposure to toxic substances (heavy metals, industrial solvents).
Regular medical monitoring is essential to identify and manage these risk factors.
EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
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