Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition that affects your kidneys’ ability to filter waste and fluid from your blood. This can cause a buildup of waste products in your body, which can lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and bone disease.
There is no cure for CKD, but there are treatments that can help slow the progression of the disease and manage your symptoms. These treatments can include:
- Medication to control blood pressure and blood sugar levels
- A special diet to reduce the amount of waste products in your blood
- Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and exercising regularly
- Dialysis or a kidney transplant, if your kidneys fail
What you can expect with CKD will vary depending on the stage of your disease and your overall health. In the early stages of CKD, you may not have any symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, you may experience symptoms such as:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in your feet and ankles
- High blood pressure
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty sleeping
- Changes in urination, such as urinating more often or less often
If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment of CKD can help you stay healthy and manage your symptoms.
Here are some tips for living with CKD:
- Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
- Take your medications as prescribed.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Exercise regularly.
- Quit smoking.
- Manage stress.
- Get regular checkups and blood tests.
Living with CKD can be challenging, but it is possible to live a long and healthy life with the right care and support.