The kidneys are bean-shaped organs that process wastes within the body and manage fluids to avoid fluid overload. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) occurs when kidney function declines over time, resulting in the inability to effectively filter wastes. This disease leads to serious complications and should be managed under the care of a qualified clinician. [1]
According to the National Kidney Foundation, around 37 million United States citizens currently have CKD, and many who do not currently have the disease have genetic and lifestyle risk factors that impact their likelihood of eventually getting the disease. Since CKD can cause progressive, serious problems, it is important to have awareness of the symptoms and causes of the disease. [1-2]
What Causes Chronic Kidney Disease?
Any disease or comorbidity that negatively impacts renal functioning is considered a cause of CKD. Some of the more well-known causes of CKD include diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2) and high blood pressure. Unregulated sugar levels can result in damage of numerous organs, including the kidneys. Additional causes include diseases that result in inflammation of different parts of the kidney, autoimmune diseases, genetic differences or diseases (such as polycystic kidney disease), and conditions affecting the urinary tract (such as enlarged prostate or kidney stones). [1-2]
What are the Warning Signs of Chronic Kidney Disease?
CKD can be challenging to diagnose because the symptoms often overlap with symptoms of other illnesses. Given the importance of early diagnosis, individuals displaying these symptoms would likely benefit from evaluation by their primary care doctor with follow-up referral to a nephrologist, if indicated. [1-2]
10 of the major warning signs of CKD include:
- Increased swelling of the limbs – This is caused by the inability of the kidneys to effectively process fluids. This swelling may be uncomfortable. Eye puffiness, particularly in the morning, is a similar symptom.
- Changes in appetite – In particular, having a decrease in desire to eat or typical amount of food consumed can be considered warning signs.
- Increased lethargy – This symptom can also present as an overall decrease in perceived energy levels.
- High blood pressure – In particular, increased blood pressure that is not easily managed by medications can be a sign of CKD.
- Difficulty sleeping – Sleep cycles can also be influenced by nocturnal urinary frequency.
- Changes in urination patterns – A common sign of CKD is having an increase in urinary frequency compared to your normal baseline.
- Shortness of breath – This is caused by increased levels of fluid in the lungs as a result of the inability to effectively filter and process fluids.
- Chest pain – Similarly to shortness of breath, chest pain can be caused by increased levels of fluid. It occurs as the result of fluids pressing against the heart lining.
- Mental fatigue and inattention – Any change in perceived cognitive abilities can be an indicator that something physical is going on.
- Dry skin – This may also result in increased itching of the skin. [1,2]
What Type of Testing Will my Doctor Use to Diagnose me?
If your doctor suspects you may have CKD, he or she will likely run some tests to further evaluate your kidney function. You will likely have both blood and urine tests to assess for the presence of unwanted proteins in the urine and levels of creatinine. Often, the presence of or excess of certain products can be indicative of deficits in kidney functioning. Your doctor may also use blood testing to assess for your glomerular filtration rate, which is an overall indicator of kidney functioning within the context of your personal attributes, such as current age. Sometimes, doctors will order a computed tomography (CT) test to visualize your kidneys. [2]
What Complications are Associated with Chronic Kidney Disease?
CKD is a serious condition because it results in loss of kidney functioning over time, which directly impacts the body’s ability to filter wastes and fluids. Ineffective kidney function can result in increased fluid build-up, which causes symptoms such as swelling of the limbs, chest pain, and shortness of breath. In addition, CKD causes issues with electrolyte imbalance, which can impact the functioning of other organs in your body, such as the heart. Some patients may experience changes in sex drive as well as erectile disfunction. Over time, CKD can cause kidney damage that requires regular dialysis intervention to provide adequate filtration of the body and to maintain life. [1]
What Factors Increase the Risk of Getting Chronic Kidney Disease?
There are several risk factors that can increase your chances of getting CKD, some of which are controllable, while others are related to genetic predisposition. For example, factors such as current age and ethnicity can unfortunately increase your risk for CKD. In general, older adults are more likely to get the disease compared to younger adults. Individuals who are African American, Asian American, and Native American tend to be at increased risk. Similarly to other diseases, having a family history of CKD can also impact your likelihood of having kidney issues. Individuals born with atypical kidney structure are likely to be of increased risk as well. [1-2]
On the other hand, controllable factors that increase your risk of CKD include smoking, obesity, and improper use of pain medications (as using them too often and in inappropriate dosages can cause damage to the kidneys). Being physically active can help to prevent obesity and many other risky comorbidities, such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. Be sure to follow instructions for pain medications, as improper usage may cause damage to the kidneys over time. Smoking can increase your risk for numerous diseases and is not recommended. [1]
While CKD can be an intimidating disease to navigate, it is crucial to assess for symptoms early on, as interventions can be implemented to optimize kidney function for as long as possible. Once end-stage failure is reached, either dialysis or a kidney transplant will be required, so it is important to take care of yourself and alert your doctor of any symptoms you are experiencing. [1]
References:
[1] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-kidney-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20354521
[2] https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/about-chronic-kidney-disease