Numerous questions may emerge in one’s mind about kidney diseases and their treatment following a diagnosis of the condition.

Most of the time, you may rely on Google or on your nearest ones to get more information about these diseases.

But, every information you get on the Internet or from your known ones may not be true.

Karetrip.com assists you in finding the solutions for all your questions. Through this blog we will navigate through some frequently asked questions and their solutions about kidney disease and its treatment.

1.What are the major symptoms that indicate you are suffering from Kidney Diseases?

Few basic symptoms of kidney diseases are:

• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Trouble thinking clearly
• Feeling very itchy
• Swelling in hand or feet
• Swollen of puffy face
• Nausea
• Frequent Urination

2.Are kidney diseases genetically inherited?

You may be more prone to kidney diseases if you have a close relative with kidney disease. Genetic factors play a huge role in the development of kidney diseases.Approximately 10% of kidney failures are linked to hereditary factors.

3.Does kidney disease increase my risk for other health problems?

Individuals with kidney disease are at more risk of developing other health issues. There are higher chances to develop heart disease and stroke in them . The kidneys have a significant role to play in the production of red blood cells which are responsible to carry oxygen throughout the body.

If there is a threat to the proper functioning of the kidney, it can result in low red blood cell levels which leads to anemia. Moreover, kidney disease can raise the levels of phosphorus and potassium content in the blood, which is detrimental to bone health and also affects the heart rhythm.

4.What are the different methods by which kidney diseases are diagnosed ?

Medical professionals may suggest a patient undergo several diagnostic tests to confirm kidney diseases. Some of them are:

• Urine test: Urine tests are often recommended by doctors to detect the presence of albumin in urine.
• Blood test: Blood tests are usually conducted to assess the glomerular filtration rate.
• Test for blood creatinine: When the kidneys stop functioning correctly, the blood's creatinine concentration rises.
• Test to determine blockages: Advanced imaging can be used to find kidney blockages.
• Glomerular filtration rate test: This test determines the severity of Kidney Disease.

5.What are the different ways by which one can lower the risk of kidney diseases?

Adequate water intake is very crucial to keep your kidney healthy and proper.

A balanced diet is very important for maintaining kidney health.One should include foods which are rich in minerals and vitamins like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Keeping a healthy weight also lowers the risk of kidney issues.

Try to manage blood pressure by exercising regularly, reducing the intake of sodium, and following any prescribed medications from a healthcare provider.

It's important to monitor and control blood sugar levels, especially for those with diabetes, to maintain kidney health. One has to work with a dietitian to develop a meal plan.Ensure that you Make physical activity part of your routine.

6.How long can an individual survive with chronic kidney disease?

It depends on several factors like age of the person, other health problems, treatment methods and healthy lifestyle habits.

7.Does the diet of an individual affect kidney function?

If you are suffering from kidney disease, it’s important to keep track of your sodium, potassium, and phosphorus intake.

The best thing you can do to help your kidneys function better is to eat a well-balanced diet which encompasses nutritious, vitamin-rich foods that are low in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus .

Try to avoid food items like cola, brown rice, bananas, processed meats, and dried fruits which have high amounts of sodium,potassium and phosphorus.

8.What are the indicators that suggest you may be susceptible to kidney disease?

• High Creatinine level in your blood
• High Blood pressure
• High protein content in urine
• High blood sugar

9.What are the different treatment options for kidney diseases?

Dialysis : The process of dialysis removes waste products and excess water present in the blood. When kidneys are no longer able to carry out its function sufficiently, dialysis is generally performed. The two major types of dialysis conducted in our country are hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.

Hemodialysis needs a machine to be used for blood filtering, whereas peritoneal dialysis uses the peritoneum to be used as a filter. In the long run, long-term dialysis is not a good option.

Kidney Transplant : Kidney transplant is a surgical treatment where a healthy kidney from a person, either alive or passed away, is transferred into another individual with a malfunctioned kidney. It is a pathway to renewed life for those struggling with kidney problems.

10.Does dialysis cure kidney failure?

It does not fully replace all the kidney’s functions, so it is not considered a cure for kidney disease or kidney failure. . Dialysis only assists your kidney in performing its function. It can help you feel better and live longer.

11.What are the complications of the process of kidney transplant ?

• Bleeding
• blood clots
• a heart attack
• a stroke
• an infection
• rejection of the donated kidney
• failure of the donated kidney

12. When Is A Kidney Transplant Suggested by Doctors ?

A patient is suggested to undergo kidney transplantation when he / she attains stage 5 of Chronic Kidney Disease.Both the kidneys stop functioning due to irreversible damage in this stage . The treatment options for such situations include either lifelong dialysis or kidney transplantation.

13. What are the various conditions in which a kidney transplant is recommended?

People who possess certain conditions are recommended to undergo a kidney transplant by doctors . Some of these conditions are:

• Urinary infections that repeat at frequent intervals.
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Prolonged high blood pressure.
• Obstructions in kidneys.
• Birth defects in kidneys.

14. How expensive are various renal treatments in India ?

The cost of each session of haemodialysis can be around Rs. 3,000. The total expenses of peritoneal dialysis can be around Rs. 20,000 per month. The cost of kidney transplantation in India can range from Rs. 5 lakhs to Rs. 10 lakhs on an average basis.

The information provided represents the views and opinions of Karetrip. It is crucial to conduct your own independent research before making any decisions regarding your healthcare journey. - Disclaimer