The kidneys are vital human organs which provide several processes to maintain proper bodily functions. Their major function is to filter out waste from the blood stream. When people develop kidney disease, one or both kidneys gradually lose the ability to function normally.
Function
The kidneys process blood and remove unhealthy waste. They usually process up to 2 quarts of waste and water daily in the human body, (NKUDIC). Waste arrives at the kidneys after normal break down active tissue and foods and retrieve the nutrients needed. The kidneys process this waste to ensure that excessive waste does not accumulate in the blood. The kidneys also release the three hormones: erythropoietin, rennin and cacitriol. Kidney Disease usually affects the nephrons (units of filtration) and decreases the kidneys ability to filter waste. Usually kidney disease is a slow process which reduces the kidneys ability to function gradually.
Types
Many types of kidney disease exist. Ploycystic kidney disease occurs when cysts form in the kidneys. Some of these cysts may enlarge and slowly force out the actual kidney. Pyelonephritis is an infection of the kidneys. This infection often stems from a bacterial infection and can usually be treated with medication. Systematic lupus is an autoimmune disorder. When this occurs the body creates antibodies which damage the kidney membranes. In addition to the three types of kidney disease described above, many other kidney disorders exist.
Features
Several symptoms are generally associated with kidney disease. Fatigue may result when wastes begin to build in the body. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, frequent need to urinate, itching, high blood pressure and bleeding. Despite the broad range of symptoms the kidneys can often function for a relatively long period of time without notice of the onset of kidney disease.
Identification
There are five stages of kidney disease. The first stage includes only minor kidney damage where they can still filter the blood normally. The second stage comprises mild kidney decreases in kidney function. The third stage occurs when kidney function further debilitates to a moderate level. In the fourth stage, kidney function had diminished excessively. In the fifth and final stage full kidney failure has occurred and dialysis is necessary for continued function.
Prevention/Solution
Treatment for kidney disease varies depending on the stage of disease being experienced. Some measures can be taken at home to reduce the spread of kidney disease or to alleviate some of the symptoms. Decreasing the consumption of protein can reduce the progression of kidney disease. Kidney disease sufferers may also need to restrict their salt and potassium intake. Although there is no cure for kidney disease, certain treatments can help slow the succession of the disease. Medical treatments usually include controlling blood glucose, blood pressure and diet.
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