Understanding Kidney Disease: Symptoms, Types, and Risk Factors

The kidney is a vital organ that acts as a filtration system for the body, eliminating waste and maintaining balance within various systems. However, when kidney function deteriorates, it can lead to kidney failure, triggering a chain reaction of system failures. To prevent such severe conditions, adopting a healthy diet becomes crucial and effective. In this article, we will explore the dietary considerations for individuals with kidney disease.

Introduction to Kidney Disease

Kidney disease refers to a condition where the kidneys are damaged, resulting in decreased efficiency of their function. The kidneys play a vital role in eliminating metabolic waste, regulating fluid and mineral levels, removing toxins, and secreting hormones into the bloodstream. Abnormal kidney function can lead to anemia, vitamin deficiencies, and high blood pressure.

Common Types of Kidney Disease

Kidney disease encompasses various types, categorized based on symptoms and location of the problem, such as cystitis, chronic renal failure, acute renal failure, nephritis, and kidney stones. Symptoms experienced by individuals with kidney disease may vary. The two most common types are acute renal failure and chronic renal failure.

·       Acute Renal Failure

Acute renal failure is characterized by a rapid loss of kidney function within hours, days, or weeks. Causes include excessive fluid or blood loss leading to shock, severe bloodstream infections, poisoning or drug side effects. Timely medical intervention can help restore normal kidney function.

·       Chronic Renal Failure

Chronic renal failure involves a gradual and progressive deterioration of kidney tissue over an extended period. It often develops as a complication of underlying conditions like diabetic nephropathy, hypertension-related nephropathy, or gout-related nephropathy.

Risk Factors for Kidney Disease

Several factors increase the risk of developing kidney disease, including:

·       Congenital diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular disease, SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus), and gallstones.

·       Family history of kidney disease.

·       Long-term use of medications that can be toxic to the kidneys.

·       Chronic stress.

·       Regular consumption of spicy foods.

·       Sedentary lifestyle.

·       History of smoking.

·       Age 60 and above.

Additionally, experiencing the following symptoms may indicate a potential risk of kidney disease:

·       Swelling, starting with the eyelids and face, and progressing to the legs and feet. Pressing the swollen area may leave a dent.

·       Unexplained back and waist pain.

·       Shortness of breath, fatigue, and paleness.

·       Abnormal urination, such as red-orange urine or foamy urine due to protein leakage.

·       Unusually frequent urination.

·       Initial onset of high blood pressure due to impaired hormone production by the kidneys.

Kidney Disease Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Dietary Guidelines

Kidney disease manifests in five stages based on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR):

·       Stage 1: GFR > 90%

·       Stage 2: GFR = 60-89%

·       Stage 3: GFR = 30-59%

·       Stage 4: GFR = 15-29%

·       Stage 5: GFR < 15%

Symptoms of kidney disease may appear once the kidneys have been damaged, including:

·       Blood in urine: Indicates potential urinary tract infections, stones, or tumors.

·       Foamy urine: Common in chronic kidney disease, caused by the presence of protein.

·       Nighttime urination: Frequent urination at night due to impaired water absorption.

·       Swelling of face and feet.

·       Fatigue, lack of concentration.

·       Weight loss or weight gain.

·       Palpable lump in the kidney area.

·       Pale, itchy skin prone to bruising.

·       Loss of appetite, nausea.

·       Bitter mouth, impaired taste.

Diagnosis involves comprehensive testing:

·       Urinalysis: Identifies protein and red blood cells in the urine.

·       Blood test: Measures elevated nitrogen, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine levels.

·       Ultrasound and CT scan: Provides imaging to observe kidney and urinary tract abnormalities.

Dietary considerations for kidney disease patients:

·       Protein: Consume appropriate amounts based on the disease stage. Opt for high-quality protein sources like low-fat fish, egg whites, lean meats, and low-fat dairy.

·       Carbohydrates: Choose non-protein flours such as vermicelli, tapioca, and sago, while avoiding protein-rich flours like white rice and pasta.

·       Fats: Opt for unsaturated fats like olive oil and soybean oil, while avoiding cholesterol-rich foods and saturated fats.

·       Sodium: Limit intake of highly salty, processed, and dried foods to 2-3 grams per day.

·       Potassium: Consume low-potassium vegetables and avoid high-potassium foods like tomatoes, potatoes, and broccoli.

·       Phosphorus: Choose foods low in phosphorus and avoid high-phosphorus options such as egg yolks and dairy products.

·       Uric acid: Avoid purine-rich foods like offal and certain vegetables, while maintaining a low-fat diet.

·       Spices: Use flavorful herbs and spices while avoiding high-sodium condiments.

·       Water: Consume water as the primary beverage, limiting intake for patients with reduced urine output or swelling.

Kidney disease treatment involves symptomatic care, blood pressure control, and avoiding kidney-stressing substances. Kidney replacement therapy may be necessary, such as hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, or kidney transplant.

Preventing kidney disease:

·       Undergo regular kidney tests if at risk.

·       Follow a balanced diet, avoiding excessive salt and sugar.

·       Engage in regular exercise.

·       Maintain adequate hydration.

·       Control diet strictly for underlying conditions.

·       Avoid smoking and long-term use of certain medications.

Choosing the right diet is crucial for maintaining good health and preventing disease progression. For personalized advice, Krungthai-AXA Life Insurance offers guidance and care coordination services. For more information, visit: https://www.krungthai-axa.co.th/th/care-coordination.

References:

·       Bang Kruai Hospital

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·       Praram 9 Hospital

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·       Petcharavej Hospital

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·       Sikarin Hospital

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·       Vibhavadi Hospital

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·       Bumrungrad Hospital

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·       Vichaivej Hospital

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·       Ramkhamhaeng Hospital

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·       Phyathai Hospital

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·       Thainakarin Hospital

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·       Siriraj Hospital

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