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With more than 850 million people suffering from chronic kidney disease, it has become a global crisis. It is predicted to become the fifth leading cause of death worldwide by 20401. Every year, millions die without timely access to adequate medical care because their dependence on dialysis and kidney transplantation increases as chronic kidney disease often progresses to end-stage renal failure or kidney failure2. Continuous research in kidney disease treatment provides promising results, and for patients who have chronic kidney disease, life will be improved. This blog will walk you through the various treatments for kidney diseases, including 3 new medical breakthroughs that will make a difference.
Synopsis
Understanding Kidney Disease
Kidney disease causes the kidneys to lose the ability to properly filter waste and fluids from the blood, causing the body to accumulate harmful chemicals and toxins. Over time, it gets progressively harder, leading to chronic kidney disease (CKD), which is a lifelong issue. If left untreated, it can lead to end-stage renal disease or kidney failure, which can lead to complications and even death.
Kidney Disease Treatment
Chronic kidney disease treatment aims to slow its progression to a chronic stage, manage its symptoms, and reduce further complications. kidney disease treatment options will depend on the type of disease (kidney disease, kidney stones, etc.), the condition, and the cause. Treatment options include:
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Dietary Changes: These can help control symptoms and prevent chronic kidney disease. To limit excess water intake, eat a diet low in salt and protein (particularly avoid red meat) and create a kidney-friendly diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
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Medications: Medications are usually given for the underlying causes of CKD disease. Like managing blood pressure, diabetes, and excessive cholesterol, which ultimately leads to CKD. It is also given for reducing symptoms like swelling, protecting bones, and preventing anaemia.
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Dialysis: It is a therapy used to remove waste and extra fluids from the blood in cases where the kidney fails to do it properly. It can be done through Hemodialysis or Peritoneal Dialysis.
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Kidney Transplant: It is a surgical procedure in which a healthy kidney from a donor is transplanted into the CKD patient. It gives a new lease of life to these patients.
To learn more about the treatment options, visit our expert nephrologist in Mukundapur.
Latest Advancements in Kidney Disease Treatment
The medical field is continuously evolving, with new and innovative therapies emerging that show promising results for improving patient outcomes. These are:
1. Stem Cell Therapy: An innovation in the treatment of kidney disease is Stem Cell Therapy, which is also a type of regenerative medicine. It involves using stem cells to repair or replace damaged kidney tissues, restoring their normal function. As these are undifferentiated cells, they can easily differentiate into the cells of the kidneys. There are different types of stem cells, out of which mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown better results in reducing inflammation and promoting tissue regeneration. This therapy reduces the risk of infection and rejection and has the potential to improve kidney function in CKD patients, improving their quality of life. Though this treatment approach is a viable alternative to dialysis and transplantation, it is still under trial to determine its efficacy and safety in humans.
2. Genetic Engineering: It is a novel technique that modifies genes to create healthy kidney cells and replace them in patients with CKD. The gene that produces the desired protein is extracted and introduced into the patient's cells, allowing it to generate the protein. This treatment can be used to treat the genetic causes of kidney disease. It reduces the risk of infection, produces a large number of healthy kidney cells, and improves kidney function in CKD patients. Though this offers a promise for future kidney therapeutics, its safety and efficacy are still being studied.
3. Artificial Kidney: An Artificial Kidney is a medical device that can mimic the filtering function of the kidney, thereby helping CKD patients. This technique looks like a hopeful alternative to commonly used therapies for end-stage renal disease. It uses a mix of microfilters, biological processes, and technology to work similarly to normal kidneys, removing waste products and extra fluids from the blood. Depending on the technology used, artificial kidneys can be of three types: hemodialysis-based, wearable, and implantable. This treatment is more efficient and effective than traditional methods and improves the quality of life of CKD patients by reducing their dependency on dialysis.
Conclusion
Chronic kidney disease is challenging to treat and can become life-threatening if not treated on time. But with the latest advancements in kidney disease treatment, there is hope for better management and treatment in the future. These novel treatment therapies will reduce the burden on kidney transplant healthcare systems. It's important to undergo regular blood tests and checkups with a nephrologist to get a quick diagnosis and timely treatment for your condition. At our nephrology hospital in Mukundapur, you can trust expert care and advanced diagnostic facilities.
FAQ's
Kidney diseases generally do not show symptoms in their early stages, but keeping a check on the following symptoms is crucial. These are:
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Fatigue and weakness
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Frequent urination
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High blood pressure
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Swelling in the feet and ankles
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Nausea and vomiting
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Muscle cramps
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Itchy skin
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Shortness of breath
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Sleep issues
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Changes in the urine
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Sugar fall (Hypoglycaemia) in diabetic patients
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Seizures or convulsions (uremic encephalopathy)
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult with our doctor immediately for personalised and appropriate treatment.
The doctor will evaluate your medical history, medications you are taking, and symptoms, and will do a physical exam. Then our doctor will order various diagnostic tests to determine the cause and extent of the disease, including:
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Blood tests
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Urine tests
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Imaging tests
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Kidney biopsy
Morning sickness is considered a problem if you cannot keep down food or fluids and begin to lose weight. It can sometimes affect the foetus's weight at birth.
No, chronic kidney disease cannot be cured. The treatment helps slow its progression and manage symptoms, improving your quality of life. Making certain changes in your lifestyle and diet can help manage kidney disease. But other diseases like Acute Kidney disease, Nephrotic syndrome, or Glomerulonephritis can be cured if diagnosed at the appropriate time.
Foods or odours that have never bothered you before might trigger nausea during pregnancy. Hence, to avoid these triggers of nausea, use a fan while cooking and ask someone else to empty the trash.
Follow these tips to protect your kidneys from getting damaged:
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Take a kidney-friendly diet
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Keep your blood pressure under control
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Keep a check on your sugar levels (they should be in the normal range)
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Quit smoking
In addition, if you have any underlying conditions that can cause kidney diseases, get regular checkups done by our doctor for early diagnosis and treatment, minimising complications.
Generally, morning sickness does not harm the baby's development. However, severe and prolonged cases may lead to complications if not managed appropriately. Ensuring proper nutrition and hydration is crucial for both maternal and foetal health.
To schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals, contact our Nephrology Department or visit our website.
To schedule an appointment with Manipal Hospitals, Broadway, contact our Gynaecology Department or visit our website.
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