Introduction To Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a serious condition that affects millions of people across the world. It is a progressive, long-term illness that can lead to kidney failure. This disease can have serious implications for a person's health and well-being. As the disease progresses, the kidneys gradually become less effective at performing their duties. In more advanced stages, CKD can cause renal failure, which can be life-threatening without treatment. CKD is caused by multiple factors, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and liver disease. Anyone can get this disease, but older people are at higher risk. Fortunately, with proper care and early detection, CKD can often be managed effectively and its effects minimized.
It can be reversed with an effective treatment for chronic kidney disease. The treatment for CKD depends on the stage of the disease and can involve lifestyle changes, medication, or dialysis. Read this article to know about the stages of chronic kidney disease and what lifestyle measures should be taken to reverse it.
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Types Of Chronic Kidney Disease Stages
The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located in the abdomen that play an essential role in maintaining the health of our bodies. They are responsible for filtering waste and excess fluids from our blood and excreting them through urine. They also help to regulate blood pressure, produce hormones, and balance electrolytes. The kidneys also produce hormones that help regulate metabolism and bone health. Without healthy kidneys, our bodies would be unable to function properly.
Our kidneys are made up of a million filtering units known as nephrons. All the nephrons include a filter called the glomerulus that filters blood and a tubule that removes wastes. The filtration speed of human kidneys is called the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). The GFR rate becomes low if your kidney is damaged or going through chronic kidney disease stages.
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Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 1
At this stage, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is above 90 ml/min and there are no signs of kidney damage or dysfunction. During this stage, it is important to take preventive measures to slow down or stop any further damage to the kidneys. Through lifestyle modifications stage 1 chronic kidney disease can be cured. It includes avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a plant-based diet. It is also important to have regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your kidney health and catch any potential problems early on.
Stage 1 Kidney Disease Treatment
Your stage 1 kidney disease can be cured by taking these steps-
- You must manage your blood sugar levels if you are suffering from diabetes.
- Have regular health checkups by visiting a doctor to lower your blood pressure.
- Maintain a healthy, plant-based diet good for the kidney.
- Stop drinking and smoking
- Exercise regularly for 30 minutes a day.
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Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 2
Stage 2 of chronic kidney disease is characterized by a mild decline in kidney function. The glomerular filtration rate at this stage is between 60 and 89 milliliters per minute. Stage 2 kidney disease symptoms include high blood pressure, swelling in the legs and feet, fatigue. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent further damage to the kidneys.
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Stage 2 Kidney Disease Treatment
Take the steps mentioned below to prevent this condition-
- Go to a kidney specialist to slow down the progression.
- Certain lifestyle modifications will be required which include diet and exercise.
- Follow your doctor’s advice to control blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Quit smoking as early as possible.
Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 3
Stage 3 kidney disease is a critical stage in which the kidneys are functioning at less than 60% of their normal capacity. In this stage, the kidneys are unable to filter waste and extra fluid from the blood, leading to an accumulation of toxins in the body.
CKD stage 3 is further divided into two types –
Stage 3A means you have moderate kidney damage and your GFR rate will be between 45 to 59 milliliters per minute.
Stage 3B means you have a GFR rate between 30 to 44 milliliters per minute.
Stage 3 Kidney Disease Treatment
It is important to seek medical attention early on if you suspect you may have CKD so that it can be properly managed before it progresses too far. The treatment includes –
- Take high blood pressure medicine as per the doctor’s advice.
- Start a low-salt diet to relieve fluid retention.
- In some cases, patients are prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications.
- Your doctor might prescribe you Vitamin D supplements to treat weakened bones.
- Follow a low-protein diet.
Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 4
Stage 4 of chronic kidney disease can have a significant impact on an individual's physical and mental health. It is characterized by a decrease in the glomerular filtration rate by 15 to 29 milliliters per minute. Chronic Kidney failure may occur if stage 4 of chronic kidney disease is left untreated.
Stage 4 Kidney Disease Treatment
Treatment of Stage 4 often includes-
- Lifestyle changes.
- Medications as prescribed by doctors.
- Dialysis and transplantation if the kidneys stop functioning.
Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 5
Stage 5 kidney disease comes under that category of kidney failure stages. At this stage, your kidney functions at less than 15 milliliters per minute. At this stage, dialysis or a kidney transplant may be necessary to maintain life.
Stage 5 Kidney Disease Treatment
If you experience complete kidney failure, then dialysis or a kidney transplant is the only option. Without this people suffering from chronic kidney disease stages are no longer able to survive.
Learn About The Chronic Kidney Disease Causes
Chronic kidney disease can have long-term and life-threatening effects. It is caused by a variety of factors which includes –
- High Blood Pressure
- Diabetes
- Kidney Stones
- Enlarged Prostate Glands
- High Cholesterol
- Severe Dehydration
- Kidney Infection
- Long-Term Use Of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
- Smoking And Alcohol Consumption
Signs And Symptoms Of Chronic Kidney Disease
You might not be able to notice CKD stages symptoms at the early stages. But it can be found in routine tests or through blood tests. You will start noticing the symptoms in more advanced stages which includes –
- Tiredness and Muscle Cramps
- Poor Appetite
- Shortness of breath
- Weight loss
- Trouble sleeping
- Swollen feet and ankles
- Dry and itchy skin
- Headaches
- Blood in urine
- Urinating more often
Note – The motive of this article is to provide general information about health-related subjects. Please consult a health expert to get the best advice related to your health issues.
Conclusion –
Chronic kidney disease is a serious health condition that can lead to long-term damage and even death if left untreated. However, with proper kidney disease treatment and lifestyle changes, it is possible to reverse this disease. With the help of medical professionals and lifestyle changes individuals can reduce their risk of developing chronic kidney disease.
Frequently Asked Questions-
Is Stage 3 kidney disease considered severe?
Stage 3 of chronic kidney disease must be taken seriously. However, the stage is considered moderate as the kidneys are still functioning. You can reverse the disease by consulting a doctor and making necessary lifestyle changes.
How can I strengthen my kidneys?
You can strengthen your kidneys with a healthy diet, do physical activity, and manage your diabetes and blood pressure.
What stage of CKD requires dialysis?
CKD stage 5 is the final stage when a patient needs dialysis to survive.
What are the 3 early warning signs of kidney disease?
Three signs of kidney disease include swelling, fatigue, and change in urine color.
What is stage 4 or 5 chronic kidney disease?
At stage 4 CKD your kidney damage rate is moderate to severe and the kidneys are unable to function properly. Stage 5 of chronic kidney disease means you are more likely to experience kidney failure. This is when your doctors will put you on dialysis or do your kidney transplant.
How do I stop my CKD from progressing?
To slow down the progression of kidney disease you must monitor your sugar and blood pressure levels. You must start eating a healthy diet and stay physically active.
Can you stop kidney disease from getting worse?
In most cases, people suffering from CKD can prevent the disease from getting worse by taking precautions at the early stages. Lifestyle changes like regular exercise and a healthy diet can help you to prevent this disease.
