Today’s special edition highlights a significant step taken by the medical board of EMC Hospital Green Branch in raising awareness about kidney diseases. The initiative aims to educate the general public and patients about kidney-related issues to enable timely diagnosis and treatment.
What Are Kidney Diseases?
Kidneys are vital organs responsible for filtering blood, removing toxins, and expelling excess water from the body. When kidney function is impaired, it leads to kidney disease, which can result in the buildup of toxins, affecting other organs and overall health.
Symptoms of Kidney Disease
Kidney disease symptoms often develop gradually and may go unnoticed in the early stages. As the condition progresses, symptoms can include:
- Swelling in Feet and Face: Caused by fluid retention.
- Changes in Urination: Reduced volume, frequent urination, or foamy urine.
- Fatigue and Weakness: Due to increased toxins in the blood.
- Loss of Appetite and Weight: A diminished desire to eat.
- Shortness of Breath: Accumulated fluid may lead to breathing difficulties.
- High Blood Pressure: Often a result of kidney dysfunction.
Causes of Kidney Disease
Several factors contribute to kidney disease, including:
- Diabetes: High blood sugar damages kidney tubules.
- Hypertension: Persistent high blood pressure weakens kidney blood vessels.
- Infections: Frequent kidney infections, such as pyelonephritis, may reduce kidney efficiency.
- Kidney Stones or Obstruction: Blockages in the urinary tract harm kidney function.
- Genetic Disorders: Conditions like Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) can be hereditary.
Treatment Options for Kidney Disease
The treatment approach depends on the severity and cause of the disease. Common methods include:
- Medications: To manage kidney function, blood pressure, and diabetes.
- Lifestyle Modifications: A balanced diet, reduced salt intake, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol.
- Dialysis: Necessary when kidneys fail completely, using a machine to remove toxins and excess water.
- Kidney Transplant: In cases of permanent kidney failure, a transplant may be required to replace the diseased kidney with a healthy one.
Understanding Dialysis
Dialysis becomes essential when kidneys lose 85–90% of their functionality. It helps remove toxins and excess fluids from the body and is of two types:
- Hemodialysis: Blood is filtered through a machine.
- Peritoneal Dialysis: Blood is filtered using the abdominal lining.
Temporary vs. Permanent Dialysis
- Temporary Dialysis: Needed for reversible kidney damage due to infection or obstruction.
- Permanent Dialysis: Required for lifelong kidney failure unless a transplant is performed.
Dispelling Common Myths About Dialysis
- Dialysis is Painful: A misconception—dialysis is a painless and lifesaving procedure.
- Life Will Be Abnormal: Patients can lead normal lives with regular dialysis.
- Infection Risks Are High: Following hygiene practices minimizes the risk.
- Dialysis Is Expensive: Many government schemes and insurance policies cover the cost, making it affordable.
Kidney disease is a serious health issue, but early detection and appropriate treatment can make a significant difference. Advanced procedures like dialysis and kidney transplants enable patients to live healthier lives.
EMC Hospital Green Branch is committed to providing the best medical services and accurate information to patients. Don’t ignore the signs of kidney disease—consult a doctor promptly for better outcomes.
Stay informed, stay healthy!
