Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is the 7th major cause of death in Australia. 1 out 7 people over the age of 25 have at least one marker of CKD. Many people are unaware that they have kidney damage and the risk is on rise.
Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Dysfunction
Many people are therefore completely unaware that they have kidney damage or CKD. It is detected via urine analysis, with the presence of blood and proteins indicating kidney dysfunction. The glomerular filtration rate can also be estimated (eGFR) to determine kidney function. Even mild GFR reduction increases the risk of heart disease.
Risk Factor for Kidney Disease
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Kidney inflammation
- Urinary system infection
- Medication abuse
- Smoking
- Advancing age
Where are my kidneys and what do they do?
The kidneys are two bean shaped organs located , just above the waist. Each kidney is approximately 11 cm long and contains more than a million tiny units called nephrons. These nephrons actually produce urine in the process of removing waste and excess substances from the blood.
Structure of Kidney
Your kidney Function
-Excrete wastes including: urea, ammonia, creatinine, toxins, and drugs.
-Maintain correct balance of electrolytes, glucose, pH and consistency of blood.
-Regulate blood pressure and volume.
-Maintain calcium levels by activating Vitamin D
-Create erythropoiten for red blood cell production.
How do they do it?
In the nephrons, small arteries (capillaries) are closely intertwined with collecting tubules. The blood is pushed, mostly via its own pressure, through the glomerular capsule filter mechanism. This feeds into the collecting tubules where substances are simultaneously secreted and resorbed by the capillaries. This delicate process is tightly controlled by hormones and the structure of the nephron itself. The resulting fluid is excreted via the urinary system as urine.
Kidney Damage and CKD
Kidney damage from any disease, condition or trauma can be life threatening. Due to the kidneys multiple roles, CKD will affect many body systems. Fluid imbalance shows itself as oedema and maintenance of electrolyte proportions are essential for heart health and muscular functioning among many other processes. Vitamin D synthesis and calcium balance is disrupted by CKD, affecting bone health. Red blood cell production is reduced This leads to anemia.
Over time CKD eventually results in end stage renal disease and kidney failure. CKD is also closely linked with cardiovascular disease.
What can I do?
Individuals with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) should limit or avoid foods high in sodium, phosphorus, potassium, and protein, as well as those high in unhealthy fats and added sugars. If you have any of the risk factors for CVD see your GP for screening.
Foods to limit or avoid for CKD patients:
- High-sodium foods
- High-phosphorus foods
- High-potassium foods
- High-protein foods
- Foods high in unhealthy fats and added sugars
Note: By carefully managing their diet, individuals with CKD can help slow disease progression and improve their overall health
