Our kidneys are responsible for carrying out various crucial functions that are important for our survival. The tiny bean-shaped organs are important for removing waste from the body, regulating the production of red blood cells, balancing minerals, regulating blood pressure and carrying out various metabolic functions. However, just like any other organ in our body, our kidneys, too, are susceptible to a variety of diseases and ailments, some of which develop slowly and progress over the years, making your kidneys lose their functionality. These are commonly known as chronic kidney diseases.
Progression of chronic kidney disease
Chronic kidney diseases tend to become worse with time and it can take several years. Many people will not feel any symptoms initially and these tend to develop only after the disease has progressed to a point where your renal function has been noticeably compromised. The disease progresses through different stages and the last one is known as end-stage renal disease. This is when the patient’s kidney function is completely lost and the patient either needs dialysis or renal transplant to thrive.
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Hypertensive arteriolar nephrosclerosis:
The condition, which is primarily seen in people with high blood pressure, is marked by the progressive loss of kidney function due to severe damage to the tiny renal blood vessels i.e. arterioles. It can also damage the glomeruli and tubulointerstitial tissues. In quite a few cases, it progresses to end-stage renal disease, however, people with the latter are likely to develop it in the majority of cases. Hypertensive arteriolar nephrosclerosis is commonly seen in elderlies and those with existing renal problems like diabetic nephropathy.
People with hypertensive arteriolar nephrosclerosis need to control their blood pressure very strictly, in order to manage the problem effectively. You may be prescribed medication along with lifestyle modifications. The prognosis of the patient depends on how effectively they are able to control their blood pressure and also on the severity of the damage that has already been induced.
It is not a single condition, but rather a group of diseases that damage the glomeruli, the tiny network of blood vessels found within the kidneys that are responsible for filtering blood. Glomerulonephritis can be acute or chronic, however, here we are going to talk about the latter. The problem progresses over the years, eventually leading to complete failure of the kidneys.
Chronic glomerulonephritis is often inherited, which means that it runs in families and is passed down through generations. This type of glomerulonephritis is commonly seen in young men who may also present with other problems related to their hearing and vision. Experts suggest that the problem can also be linked to immune system disorders. In some cases, the underlying cause is hard to point out. Glomerulonephritis can progress leading to nephrotic syndrome, It is a serious condition in which a person’s kidneys are not able to ho;ld back essential proteins and these are passed out along with the urine.
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Polycystic kidney disease:
Polycystic kidney disease or PKD is an inherited disorder, which means that it is passed down through genes. In a few cases, it can also be linked to genetic mutations that develop later in life. Unlike normal cysts, which aren’t generally harmful, those associated with PKD can give rise to serious complications as these can negatively impact the normal structure of the kidneys leading to their enlargement.
The condition is broadly classified into two different types - autosomal dominant PKD and autosomal recessive PKD. The former is diagnosed in adults whereas the latter is diagnosed in infants or even when the baby is still inside the womb. Polycystic kidney disease can be effectively managed with early diagnosis, timely medical intervention and recommended lifestyle modifications. People suffering from the condition also need to control their hypertension very strictly.
The term nephropathy is generally used for the loss of renal function and when this is caused by uncontrolled diabetes the condition is referred to as diabetic nephropathy. Diabetes happens to be one of the leading causes of end-stage renal disease. It progresses through 5 different stages, gradually resulting in the deterioration of a person’s kidney function and eventually leading to kidney failure.
Diabetic nephropathy has been linked to both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. When diabetes is not managed properly it can blood vessels found within the kidneys and also increase the pressure of blood. The problem is commonly seen in people who have uncontrolled blood pressure, blood sugar, and obesity. If you have a family history of diabetes or tend to smoke a lot, you too fall in the high-risk category.
Renal cancer, also known as kidney cancer, is a serious and life-threatening condition in which the healthy cells and tissues found within the kidneys are replaced with malignant tissues. This has been linked with abnormal genetic mutations that take place in the DNA of the renal cells, causing them to grow and multiply uncontrollably.
Renal cancer is most commonly seen in people lying in the age group of 65 to 74 years and men tend to be at a higher risk of developing it as compared to women. There are several different types of kidney cancers depending on the type of cells involved. Does most common of these is renal cell carcinoma which accounts for nearly 85% of all cases. Early diagnosis and treatment are the keys to managing renal cancer and as such it is important to go for proper medical intervention whenever you experience any unusual symptom.
A ray of hope
Patients with chronic kidney disease can lead a long and fulfilling life with proper treatment and care. There are so many advanced modalities available nowadays that can help you or your loved ones overcome the daily struggles of living with such ailments and slow down their progression. All it takes is expert guidance and dedication. It is important to watch out for any unusual symptoms and seek immediate medical help if you suspect something is wrong with your kidneys. With timely diagnosis and treatment, you can definitely take charge of your renal health.
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