Kidney Disorder

Kidney Disorder Types

1. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): A progressive condition where the kidneys gradually lose their function over time, often caused by diabetes, high blood pressure, or other underlying conditions.
2. Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Sudden and severe kidney damage usually resulting from infections, dehydration, medications, or trauma. It requires immediate medical attention.
3. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): A genetic disorder causing fluid-filled cysts to form in the kidneys, leading to enlargement and reduced function.
4. Kidney Stones: Hard deposits of minerals and salts that can form in the kidneys and cause intense pain as they pass through the urinary tract.
5. Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the kidney's filtering units (glomeruli) due to infections, immune disorders, or other causes.
6. Nephrotic Syndrome: A group of symptoms, including proteinuria (excessive protein in urine), swelling, and low blood protein levels, often caused by glomerular damage.

Diagnosis

1. Blood Tests: Measure levels of creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and other markers to assess kidney function.
2. Urinalysis: Examination of urine for abnormalities such as protein, blood, or infection.
3. Imaging: Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to visualize kidney structure and detect abnormalities like stones or cysts.
4. Biopsy: A small sample of kidney tissue is taken to diagnose specific kidney diseases and guide treatment.

Causes

1. Diabetes: High blood sugar levels damage the kidneys' filtering units.
2. High Blood Pressure: Prolonged high pressure strains the kidneys and impairs their function.
3. Infections: Infections, especially untreated ones, can lead to kidney damage.
4. Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like lupus or IgA nephropathy cause the immune system to attack kidney tissues.
5. Medications: Certain drugs can be toxic to the kidneys if not properly monitored.

Symptoms

1. Fatigue: Due to reduced kidney function leading to anemia and build-up of waste products.
2. Swelling: Fluid retention causes swelling in the legs, ankles, face, or hands.
3. Changes in Urination: Decreased urine output, foamy or bloody urine, frequent urination at night.
4. Pain: Flank pain (side of the body between ribs and hip) from kidney stones or infections.
5. Hypertension: High blood pressure resulting from impaired kidney function.

Treatment

1. Medications: Manage underlying conditions, reduce proteinuria, control blood pressure, and treat infections.
2. Dialysis: Artificial filtration of blood when kidneys can't adequately filter waste products.
3. Kidney Transplant: Replacement of a damaged kidney with a healthy one from a donor.
4. Lifestyle Changes: Healthy diet, exercise, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol can slow disease progression.

Diet After Surgery

1. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to support kidney function and prevent dehydration.
2. Low Sodium: Reduce salt intake to manage fluid balance and blood pressure.
3. Low Protein: Limit protein consumption to reduce stress on the kidneys.
4. Healthy Fats: Consume sources of healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and olive oil.
5. Fruits and Vegetables: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support overall health.
6. Monitor Electrolytes: Potassium and phosphorus levels may need to be controlled based on blood tests.