April is National Kidney Dialysis Month. Did you know that more than 1 in 7 people have chronic kidney disease (CKD)? Also, 90% of people with stage 3 CKD don’t know they have it (that includes 2 in 5 adults with severe CKD)!
Leading Causes include high blood pressure and Diabetes. Other Risk Factors include cardiovascular disease, kidney or ureter blockages, obesity, or Lupus. Lifestyle factors include overuse of medications with ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen or chronic use of illicit drugs. A family history of kidney disease or being over 50 years old can also affect your chances for getting CKD.
The potential symptoms of Chronis Kidney Disease (CKD) include the following: Abnormal levels of phosphorus, calcium, or vitamin D, Abnormal urine test, decreased appetite, fatigue, high blood pressure, itching, pain in the small of your back, puffiness around your eyes, shortness of breath, or swelling in your hands, feet, or legs. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you need to ask your doctor to have lab tests to see if you have any kidney problems.
There are several different types of tests your doctor might order. Your eGFR (glomerular filtration rate) is a measurement of how well your kidneys are functioning. If your eGFR is 30 -44, your doctor needs to refer you to a kidney specialist (a nephrologist). You must also be concerned if your creatinine level is over 1.00 or if your BUN level is greater than 20. The earlier your doctor can confirm a diagnosis of CKD, the earlier you can get the care and support you need.
Please have your doctor (and yourself) check your lab reports carefully so that if there is a problem you can get it under control before you end up having to have dialysis.