Your Complete Guide to Kidney Health & Treatment at Apollo Hospitals India
Kidneys are vital organs that filter waste and excess fluids from the blood, maintaining overall health. When they malfunction, it can lead to serious health issues. Recognising early symptoms of kidney disease is crucial for timely intervention.
This guide provides comprehensive insights into kidney health and the advanced treatment options available at Apollo Hospitals India.
Understanding Kidney Disease
What is kidney disease?
Kidney disease, also known as renal disease or nephropathy, refers to any condition that damages the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood.
This impairment can lead to a buildup of harmful substances in the body, affecting overall health.
Recognising the symptoms and treatment of kidney disease early can help prevent severe complications. Timely diagnosis and proper management play a crucial role in maintaining kidney function.
When discussing causes, symptoms, and remedies of kidney disease, it is essential to understand how kidneys function and what factors contribute to their deterioration.
How do kidneys function?
The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine. Their primary functions include:
- Filtering waste products and excess fluids from the blood, which are then excreted as urine.
- Regulating electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and calcium to maintain balance.
- Releasing hormones that control blood pressure and stimulate red blood cell production.
Types of kidney diseases (Acute vs. Chronic Kidney Disease)
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
A sudden loss of kidney function is often reversible with prompt treatment. Causes include severe dehydration, infections, or certain medications.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
A gradual decline in kidney function over months or years. CKD is often irreversible and can progress to kidney failure if not managed properly. Common causes include diabetes and high blood pressure.
Early warning signs of kidney failure
Recognising early signs of kidney damage is vital for timely intervention. Early signs may include:
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
- Swelling: Noticing puffiness in the ankles, feet, or hands due to fluid retention.
- Changes in urination: Experiencing increased or decreased frequency, foamy urine, or blood in the urine.
- Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, which can result from fluid buildup in the lungs.
When to seek medical help?
Persistent swelling may occur in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes, often accompanied by severe fatigue or weakness that does not improve with rest.
Additionally, significant changes in urination patterns, such as reduced output or dark-coloured urine, may indicate an underlying issue.
In more serious cases, chest pain or shortness of breath can develop, suggesting fluid accumulation affecting the heart or lungs.
Causes & Risk Factors of Kidney Disease
Common causes of kidney disease
Understanding the causes, symptoms, and remedies of kidney disease can help in early detection and prevention. Some common causes include:
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys over time.
- High blood pressure: Increased pressure can harm kidney vessels, reducing their filtering ability.
- Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the kidney's filtering units.
- Polycystic kidney disease: A genetic disorder causing cysts in the kidneys.
- Prolonged use of certain medications: Overuse of painkillers like NSAIDs can cause kidney damage.
How diabetes & high blood pressure damage your kidneys
Diabetes
Diabetes damages the kidneys by causing high blood sugar levels to weaken and narrow blood vessels, reducing their ability to filter waste efficiently. Over time, this leads to glomerular damage, protein leakage in the urine (proteinuria), and progressive loss of kidney function.
High blood pressure
High blood pressure exerts excessive force on kidney blood vessels, causing them to thicken and narrow. This restricts blood flow, leading to scarring (nephrosclerosis) and impaired filtration. As kidney function declines, the body retains excess fluid and toxins, further increasing blood pressure and accelerating kidney damage.
Lifestyle habits that harm kidney health
- High-sodium diet: Increases blood pressure, straining the kidneys.
- Smoking: Reduces blood flow to the kidneys, impairing function.
- Dehydration: Insufficient water intake can lead to kidney stones and infections.
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Diagnosis & Tests for Kidney Disease
How is kidney disease diagnosed?
Diagnosing kidney disease involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examinations, and specific tests to evaluate kidney function and structure.
Early detection is crucial for effective management and treatment. Doctors often use blood tests and imaging tests to detect symptoms of chronic kidney disease early.
Blood tests (Creatinine, GFR levels)
Serum Creatinine
Creatinine is a waste product from muscle metabolism, filtered by the kidneys. Elevated levels in the blood can indicate impaired kidney function.
Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)
GFR estimates how well the kidneys filter waste. It's calculated using serum creatinine levels, age, body size, and gender. A lower GFR suggests reduced kidney function.
Imaging tests (Ultrasound, CT scan)
Renal Ultrasound
This non-invasive test uses sound waves to visualise the kidneys, helping detect structural abnormalities, blockages, or stones.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
Provides detailed cross-sectional images of the kidneys, assisting in identifying tumours, cysts, or other structural issues.
Additional diagnostic methods may include urinalysis to detect abnormalities in urine and kidney biopsies for detailed tissue examination. Since the symptoms of chronic kidney disease can be subtle, these tests help assess kidney health before significant damage occurs.
Treatment Options for Kidney Disease
Understanding the symptoms and treatment of kidney disease is essential for managing the condition effectively. Medications play a crucial role in slowing disease progression and managing associated complications. However, it is always better to consult a doctor to receive the right diagnosis, treatment plan and medications based on your condition.
Medications for kidney disease
- Blood pressure medications: ACE inhibitors and ARBs help control blood pressure and reduce kidney damage.
- Diuretics: Assist kidneys in removing excess fluid and lowering blood pressure.
- Cholesterol-lowering drugs: Statins reduce cholesterol levels, decreasing cardiovascular risks.
- Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents: Address anaemia by promoting red blood cell production.
- Phosphate binders: Control phosphorus levels, preventing bone disease.
When is dialysis needed?
One common question patients ask is, "At what creatinine level is dialysis needed?" While there is no fixed threshold, doctors generally recommend dialysis when kidneys can no longer effectively filter waste and excess fluids, typically in end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) or when kidney function declines to 10-15%.
Symptoms indicating the need for dialysis include nausea, vomiting, swelling, and fatigue. The decision to start dialysis depends on overall health, lab results, and symptom severity.
Kidney transplants: Success rates & procedure
A kidney transplant involves replacing a diseased kidney with a healthy one from a donor. This procedure offers a better quality of life compared to dialysis.
Success rates have improved, with one-year survival rates exceeding 90%. However, factors like age, overall health, and adherence to post-transplant care influence outcomes.
Preventing Kidney Disease
Best foods for kidney health
Maintaining a kidney-friendly diet is one of the most effective ways to support kidney function. If you're wondering "How to keep kidneys healthy?", incorporating the right foods into your diet can help prevent kidney disease and improve overall well-being.
While certain foods help improve kidney health, many patients often ask, "Which foods increase creatinine levels?" Foods high in protein, such as red meat and dairy products, can contribute to elevated creatinine levels if consumed in excess.
Ways to naturally lower creatinine
High creatinine levels can indicate declining kidney function, making it essential to find ways to reduce creatinine naturally. Some effective methods include:
- Adequate water intake assists the kidneys in flushing out toxins.
- Limiting the consumption of red meat and opting for plant-based proteins can decrease creatinine production.
- A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can improve kidney health and reduce creatinine levels.
Before making significant dietary changes, consulting a healthcare professional is essential.
Why Choose Apollo Hospitals India for Kidney Treatment?
Advanced nephrology care at Apollo
Apollo Hospitals is renowned for its exceptional nephrology and urology services, offering comprehensive care for various kidney-related conditions. Important features include:
Expertise
A team of experienced nephrologists and urologists skilled in diagnosing and treating both acute and chronic kidney diseases.
Comprehensive Services
From kidney biopsies to critical care nephrology, hemodialysis, and peritoneal dialysis, Apollo provides a full spectrum of renal care.
Transplant Excellence
With over 21,000 kidney transplants performed, Apollo's transplant program is among the busiest globally, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient outcomes.
International patient support for kidney treatment
Apollo Hospitals extends dedicated services to international patients, ensuring a seamless healthcare experience:
- Personalised Assistance: A specialised team assists with medical consultations, treatment planning, and coordination of care, addressing the unique needs of international patients.
- Comprehensive Support: Services include visa assistance, airport transfers, accommodation arrangements, and language interpretation, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout the treatment journey.
- International Patient Lounge: Facilities like the International Patient Lounge at Apollo Hospitals provide a comfortable environment, facilitating coordination of medical appointments and addressing any concerns during the stay.
How Bangla Health Connect Supports Bangladeshi Patients Seeking Kidney Treatment
Connecting Patients to Apollo Hospitals
Bangla Health Connect serves as the authorised representative of Apollo Hospitals India in Bangladesh, facilitating seamless access to world-class kidney care. Their services include:
- Doctor Appointments: Assisting patients in scheduling consultations with nephrologists and urologists at Apollo Hospitals across various Indian cities.
- Travel Arrangements: Coordinating flight bookings and offering complimentary airport pickup services for patients and their families.
- Teleconsultation Services: Facilitating virtual consultations with Apollo specialists for pre-treatment advice and post-treatment follow-ups.
- Second Medical Opinions: Arranging for additional medical opinions from Apollo experts to help patients make well-informed decisions.
Whether you're in the early stages of kidney disease or exploring advanced treatment options like dialysis or transplant, expert care at Apollo Hospitals India can make all the difference. For Bangladeshi patients, Bangla Health Connect ensures a smooth and trusted journey, helping you book appointments, arrange travel, and access the best kidney care with confidence. Reach out to Bangla Health Connect today to take the next step toward better kidney health.
Note: Bangla Health Connect does not provide medical advice of any kind.
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What are the early warning signs of kidney disease?
Early signs include fatigue, swelling in the ankles or hands, and changes in urination such as foamy or dark urine. Some may also experience shortness of breath or high blood pressure. These symptoms often develop gradually and can be mistaken for other conditions.
How do high blood pressure and diabetes affect kidney function?
High blood pressure damages the small blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste. Diabetes leads to high blood sugar levels, which over time harm the kidney's filtering units, causing chronic damage and protein leakage in urine.
When is dialysis required for kidney patients?
Dialysis is usually recommended when kidney function drops to 10–15% of normal capacity. It becomes necessary if symptoms like swelling, fatigue, high potassium levels, or trouble breathing appear and cannot be managed by medication or diet alone.
Can kidney function be improved naturally through diet and lifestyle changes?
While damaged kidney function cannot be fully restored, its decline can be slowed. Staying hydrated, eating a kidney-friendly diet low in sodium and protein, exercising regularly, and managing blood sugar and pressure can help preserve kidney health.
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