WHAT IS IT?
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) happens when your kidneys are damaged and can’t work as well as they should. Normally, kidneys filter waste and extra water out of the blood, making urine. When they’re damaged, waste builds up in the body. Over time, this can cause problems or symptoms like swelling, tiredness, trouble sleeping or concentrating, bad taste in mouth, shortness of breath, etc. Kidney disease can range from mild to severe and in some cases, lead to kidney failure (sometimes referred to as end-stage kidney disease).
CKD usually gets worse slowly over many years. In the early stages, people might not notice symptoms, but as it worsens, they may feel unwell.
WHAT are the causes?
is it reversible?
Unfortunately, it cannot be cured, but treatments like medication, a healthy diet, and regular check-ups help protect the kidneys and slow down damage. Once your kidneys lose all their functionality, you will need to choose between a few options as a replacement therapy.
WHAT are my options?
Home hemodialysis à https://creehealth.org/health-tips/homehemodialysis
In-centre hemodialysis à https://creehealth.org/health_tip/in-centrehemodialysis
Peritoneal dialysis à https://creehealth.org/health_tip/Peritonealdialysis
Kidney transplant à https://creehealth.org/health-tips/kidney-transplant
Some people also choose to not undergo any treatment and maintain conservative care à [Link to conservative care page]
WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE?
Ask your nurse or your nephrologist for more info.
A kidney transplant is when a new kidney is put into the lower part of the abdomen next to your actual kidney.
