Get the Facts: Kidney Disease

“Kidneys play a vital role in maintaining your overall health,” said Tejas Patel, MD, Catholic Health Physician Partners Nephrologist. “When working correctly, they are essential to your body’s ability to function optimally."

Dr. Patel noted that taking care of your kidneys helps prevent kidney disease from occurring. "Kidney disease can cause severe complications that lead to an increased likelihood of having a heart attack or stroke," said Dr. Patel.

Why are kidneys important to my health?

Kidneys are organs at the bottom of your rib cage on either side of your spine. They keep your body functioning by:

• Filtering and removing waste products.
• Regulating fluid balance.
• Regulating potassium and salt levels.
• Managing acid buildup in the body.
• Producing hormones that help control blood pressure and regulate hemoglobin (anemia).
• Processing Vitamin D to improve calcium absorption.

What are the types of kidney disease?

“Kidney disease occurs when your kidneys cannot do their job due to damage or illness,” said Dr. Patel. “Each type of kidney disease has different causes and treatment options.” 

Chronic kidney disease (CKD)

CKD is a long-term illness that reduces your body’s ability to clean the blood effectively. If left untreated, CKD may lead to kidney failure and the need for dialysis and kidney transplantation. The most common causes of CKD are diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. Certain genetic conditions, inflammation and bone marrow disease also affect the kidneys.  

Medications can affect kidney function if taken for a long time, including: 

• Ibuprofen (e.g., Advil, Motrin)
• Naproxen (e.g., Aleve, Naprosyn)
• Over-the-counter stomach acid suppressants (e.g., Omeprazole, Pantoprazole) 
• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications

Kidney stones

Kidney stones occur when minerals in the blood crystallize in the kidneys and form stones. It is important to get evaluated as there is a high likelihood of recurrence after the first kidney stone attack. Recurrent kidney stones can cause kidney damage.  

Polycystic kidney disease

Polycystic kidney disease, the most common inherited kidney illness, causes multiple cysts (fluid-filled sacs) to grow in the kidneys. Cysts can impair kidney function, leading to kidney failure if left unchecked. 

Urinary tract infection (UTI)

A UTI is a bacterial infection in the urinary system. Infections starting in the urethra and bladder are the most common cause. UTIs are usually treatable. Bacteria can sometimes affect the kidneys and cause sepsis, an infection in the blood that can be deadly.  

What are the warning signs of kidney disease?

“In its early stages, kidney disease may not cause recognizable warning signs,” said Dr. Patel. “You may have general symptoms, such as a loss of appetite or headache. Talk to your doctor about any concerns if you are not feeling well.”

Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease, followed by high blood pressure. Risk factors include: 

• Age (older adults are most at risk) 
• Heart disease
• Overweight or obese 
• American Indian, African American, Asian or Hispanic descent
• Family history

As kidney disease progresses, symptoms may include bone pain, numbness or swelling in hands or feet, muscle cramps and fatigue.

How is kidney disease diagnosed and treated?

Diagnostic testing determines if you have kidney disease. 

• A creatinine blood test measures how well your blood is filtered and estimates approximate kidney function called eGFR.
• A urine test measures a protein called albumin that is present with kidney damage. 

“Keep up with your annual exams to get tested every year if you have diabetes, a family history of kidney failure, heart disease or high blood pressure,” said Dr. Patel. “Adopting a healthy lifestyle and managing medical conditions can significantly lower your risk.”

Dr. Patel recommends not smoking, limiting alcohol, not eating salty and high-cholesterol foods, and exercising regularly.

Call 866-MY-LI-DOC (866-695-4362) to find a Catholic Health physician near you. View our kidney health services.