Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects many Americans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 7 adults in the US, or over 35 million individuals, have chronic kidney disease. The disease affects the ability of the kidneys to perform their function, which is to filter out waste and fluids from the body.
Let’s discuss chronic kidney disease, its causes, treatments, and how nephrologists can help you manage your condition.
What is Chronic Kidney Disease?
Chronic kidney disease is a long-term condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their function. This progressive loss of kidney function can lead to a buildup of waste and excess fluids in the body, resulting in various complications.
Some of the known causes of kidney disease are:
- Diabetes – Uncontrolled diabetes is a leading cause of kidney disease, as high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the kidneys over time.
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) – Untreated high blood pressure can strain the kidneys, leading to CKD.
- Glomerulonephritis – Inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units can cause CKD.
- Polycystic Kidney Disease – An inherited disorder that causes cysts to develop in the kidneys can lead to CKD.
- Obstructions – Conditions that block the flow of urine, such as kidney stones or enlarged prostate, can cause CKD.
- Certain Medications – Prolonged use of certain medications like NSAIDs or antibiotics can contribute to kidney damage.
- Autoimmune Diseases – Conditions like lupus can also affect the kidneys and lead to disease.
- Recurrent Kidney Infections – Frequent kidney infections can lead to scarring and damage to the kidneys.
How is Chronic Kidney Disease Diagnosed?
CKD is typically diagnosed through blood tests to measure kidney function and urine tests to assess for protein or blood in the urine. Imaging tests, a biopsy, and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) calculation are also used to diagnose and stage kidney disease. The condition is categorized into different stages based on the level of kidney function, ranging from mild (Stage 1) to severe (Stage 5).
Who are Nephrologists?
Nephrologists are medical specialists trained in diagnosing and treating kidney diseases. They undergo extensive training in nephrology, focusing on kidney function, disorders, and treatment modalities. Nephrologists work closely with patients to manage kidney-related conditions, providing comprehensive care tailored to the patient.
How Can a Nephrologist Help Manage Chronic Kidney Disease?
While each treatment plan is individualized to the patient, here’s an example of how a nephrologist may help manage your condition:
Diagnosis and Monitoring
Nephrologists utilize various diagnostic tests to assess kidney function and identify underlying conditions. Regular monitoring allows them to track disease progression and adjust treatment accordingly.
Treatment Planning
Nephrologists develop personalized chronic kidney disease treatment plans based on the stage and cause of the disease. This may include medication management, lifestyle modifications, and dietary adjustments to slow disease progression and alleviate symptoms.
Dialysis and Transplantation
In advanced stages of chronic kidney disease, nephrologists oversee dialysis treatment, a procedure that filters waste products from the blood when the kidneys no longer function adequately. They also evaluate patients for kidney transplantation, coordinating care before and after surgery.
Complication Management
Nephrologists address complications associated with kidney disease, such as hypertension, electrolyte imbalances, anemia, and bone disorders. Prompt intervention helps minimize complications and improve quality of life.
Patient Education
Nephrologists educate patients about their condition, treatment options, and self-management strategies. Some common self-care recommendations include maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, adhering to medications, and monitoring blood pressure and blood sugar levels. They are doctors who can empower patients with knowledge that enables them to participate actively in their care.
Collaborative Care
Nephrologists collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and pharmacists, to provide comprehensive care. This multidisciplinary approach addresses various aspects of kidney disease management and enhances patient outcomes.
Top Nephrologist in Syracuse, New York
The nephrologists at the Department of Medicine at SUNY: Upstate Medical University provide expert care to individuals with chronic kidney disease. We have a renal clinic, a dialysis clinic, and a kidney transplant program, which is considered one of the best in the country. We currently perform approximately 35 renal transplants per year.
To schedule an appointment, please contact our nephrology providers directly. If you need further information, you can email the Department of Medicine at SUNY: Upstate Medical University at DeptMedicine@upstate.edu.
