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Chronic Kidney Disease

LifeCare Diagnostic April 3, 2019

Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a slow and progressive loss of kidney function over a period of several years. Eventually, a person will develop permanent kidney failure CKD is a common, life-threatening illness that often goes undetected until advanced stage.

Risk Factors

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• A family history of kidney disease, diabetes or high blood pressure
• Obesity
• Kidney stone
• Autoimmune Diseases
• Some medications – overuse of, for example, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen

Risk Factors

• Anemia/ Low red blood cell
• Blood in urine/ dark urine
• Decreased mental alertness
• Decreased urine output
• Edema – swollen feet, hands, and ankles (face if edema is severe)
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Insomnia
• Itchy skin, can become persistent
• Loss of appetite
• Male inability to get or maintain an erection (erectile dysfunction)
• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Muscle cramps/ twitches
• Nausea
• Pain on the side or mid to lower back
• Panting (shortness of breath)
• Protein in urine (bubble in urine)
• Sudden change in bodyweight
• Unexplained headaches

Annual Health Screening is vital to check whether your kidneys are healthy as symptoms can be late or subtle.

KKLIU 1600/2021