Frequently Asked Questions

Chronic Kidney Disease is a condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood over time. It progresses through 5 stages, from mild (Stage 1) to kidney failure (Stage 5).

Early signs include changes in urination (frequency, color, foaminess), swelling in legs/ankles/face, fatigue, loss of appetite, difficulty concentrating, and dry/itchy skin. However, CKD often has no symptoms in early stages, making regular screening important.

You should see a nephrologist if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of kidney disease, recurrent kidney stones, blood/protein in urine, or if your GFR is below 60 mL/min. Early consultation can prevent progression.

Kidney patients should limit sodium (less than 2,300 mg/day), control protein intake based on CKD stage, limit potassium-rich foods (bananas, oranges, potatoes), reduce phosphorus-rich foods (dairy, nuts, cola), and avoid processed/packaged foods.

For eligible patients, kidney transplant generally offers better quality of life, better survival rates, fewer dietary restrictions, and greater freedom compared to long-term dialysis. However, it requires lifelong immunosuppressive medications and ongoing monitoring.

During a kidney transplant surgery (3-4 hours), the surgeon places the new kidney in the lower abdomen and connects it to blood vessels and the bladder. The diseased kidneys are usually left in place unless they cause problems.

There are two main types: Hemodialysis (blood is filtered through a machine outside the body, typically 3 times per week at a center) and Peritoneal Dialysis (uses the abdominal lining as a natural filter, can be done at home).

Kidney stones form when minerals and salts in urine crystallize. Risk factors include dehydration, high sodium/protein diet, obesity, family history, and certain medical conditions. The most common types are calcium oxalate stones.

Prevent kidney disease by: managing blood sugar (if diabetic), controlling blood pressure, staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting NSAIDs, avoiding smoking, and getting regular kidney function checks.

GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate) is a blood test that measures how well your kidneys filter waste. A normal GFR is above 90. Below 60 for 3+ months indicates CKD. Below 15 indicates kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplant.

Early-stage CKD (Stage 1-2) can sometimes be slowed or stabilized with proper treatment and lifestyle changes. However, advanced CKD (Stage 4-5) generally cannot be reversed but can be managed to delay progression to dialysis or transplant.

If you have diabetes or hypertension, get kidney function tests at least once a year. If you have risk factors (family history, obesity, heart disease), regular screening is recommended. Your doctor will advise the appropriate frequency.