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Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a medical condition characterized by a gradual loss of kidney function over time. The kidneys are essential for filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood, which are then excreted in urine. When functioning decreases, dangerous levels of fluid, electrolytes, and wastes can accumulate in the body. CKD is often progressive and can lead to kidney failure, necessitating dialysis or a kidney transplant for survival. The prevalence of CKD is significant, with millions of people worldwide affected. It is more common in older individuals, but it can occur at any age. The rising instances of CKD are concerning and underline the importance of understanding this condition and its treatment options, including natural and functional medicine approaches.
The leading causes of Chronic Kidney Disease include diabetes and high blood pressure, which are responsible for up to two-thirds of cases. Diabetes leads to an excess sugar in the blood, causing damage to the kidneys over time. High blood pressure, on the other hand, can narrow and weaken the blood vessels around the kidneys, affecting their ability to function properly. Other causes of CKD include glomerulonephritis, an inflammation of the kidney's filtering units, inherited diseases such as polycystic kidney disease, malformations that occur as a baby develops in the womb, lupus, and other autoimmune diseases, and prolonged obstruction of the urinary tract.
- Nausea - Vomiting - Loss of appetite - Fatigue and weakness - Sleep problems - Changes in urine output - Decreased mental sharpness - Muscle twitches and cramps - Swelling of feet and ankles - Persistent itching - High blood pressure (hypertension) that's difficult to control
Diagnosing CKD involves a variety of tests to determine kidney function. Blood tests, such as the estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR), can assess how well the kidneys are filtering blood. A urine test can help detect signs of kidney damage by looking for certain proteins in the urine. Imaging tests – like ultrasounds or CT scans – provide visual evidence of the kidneys' structure and size, contributing to the diagnosis. In some cases, a kidney biopsy may be necessary for examining kidney tissue to determine the cause of the dysfunction.
Prevention of Chronic Kidney Disease focuses on managing underlying conditions that can contribute to kidney damage. This involves maintaining a healthy blood pressure, controlling blood sugar levels if diabetic, reducing salt intake, avoiding nonsterapeutic use of NSAIDs, and quitting smoking. These strategies can slow the progression of CKD and improve overall kidney function. In terms of treatment through functional medicine, the approach emphasizes a whole-body perspective. This includes dietary changes, such as a plant-based diet that's low in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, to lessen the kidneys' workload. Herbal supplements such as fish oil, probiotics, and herbal medicines like astragalus, may have kidney-protective effects, though it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially for individuals with CKD. Exercise and stress management are also critical components of a functional medicine approach to CKD. Regular physical activity can help manage blood pressure and weight, while techniques like meditation or yoga can reduce stress levels, potentially mitigating one of the risk factors for worsening kidney health. Ensuring adequate hydration and limiting exposure to toxins and harmful substances can also support kidney health. While these natural and functional medicine treatments can aid in managing CKD, they should complement, not replace, conventional medical therapies prescribed by healthcare professionals.