Chronic kidney disease is a condition in which the kidneys gradually lose function over a long period of time.
It is a serious medical condition that is often only recognised when there has been significant damage to the kidneys.
Some chronic kidney diseases have advanced stages that can eventually lead to kidney failure. This means that the kidneys are unable to function properly to maintain the balance needed for the body to function properly. Patients with kidney failure may need regular haemodialysis or kidney transplantation to sustain life.
Chronic kidney disease can be caused by a variety of factors, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, inflammatory conditions or genetic factors. It is important to identify and treat the underlying conditions that contribute to the development of chronic kidney disease.
In the early stages of chronic kidney disease, there are often no obvious symptoms or only mild symptoms such as fatigue, general malaise or watery eyes. This is why it is important to check kidney health regularly, especially for those who have high levels of diabetes or blood pressure, or who have a family history of kidney problems.
Prevention and early detection are key to managing chronic kidney disease and minimising complications. A healthy lifestyle, regular medical check-ups and treatment of underlying conditions can all help to reduce the risk of developing chronic kidney disease and slow the progression of the condition.
Long-term loss of kidney function can pose serious health risks, as the kidneys perform many important functions in the body.
Some consequences and complications that can occur in long-term kidney failure:
Water and electrolyte imbalance: the kidneys play an important role in maintaining the body’s water and electrolyte balance. In renal failure, this balance can be upset, leading to water retention, electrolyte imbalances (e.g. high potassium levels) and acid-base imbalances.
High blood pressure: The kidneys play a central role in regulating blood pressure. If kidney function is reduced, blood pressure levels can rise and lead to chronic hypertension, which further damages the kidneys and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Blood glucose instability: the kidneys are also involved in excreting glucose (sugar) in the urine. When kidney function is impaired, the kidneys are unable to efficiently remove excess glucose from the bloodstream, which can contribute to blood glucose instability in diabetics.
Anaemia: the kidneys control the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to different parts of the body. If the kidneys are not working properly, it can lead to a decrease in the production of red blood cells, which can cause anaemia and a number of symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath and heart rhythm disturbances.
Renal osteodystrophy: the kidneys are also involved in the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus, and the activation of vitamin D, which are important for healthy bones. In people with renal dysfunction, these metabolic processes can be disrupted, leading to osteoporosis and an increased risk of bone fractures.
