Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease

Exploring the Functions and Impact of Kidneys

Introduction

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a broad term
CKD involves a gradual decline in kidney function
Kidneys regulate blood composition, remove waste products, maintain electrolyte balance, and produce hormones
Blood enters the kidney through the renal artery and passes through tiny arterioles called glomeruli
Glomerular filtration generates primary filtrate, which moves through the renal tubules
The rate of glomerular filtration is known as the glomerular filtration rate (GFR)

Hypertension is a common cause of CKD
Hypertension leads to thickening of the arterial walls supplying the kidneys, resulting in reduced blood flow
Other causes of CKD include diabetes, systemic diseases, infections, prolonged medication use, and exposure to toxins
CKD can lead to glomerulosclerosis, fibrosis, and chronic kidney failure

CKD affects the elimination of waste products
Accumulation of toxins in the blood can lead to symptoms such as nausea and loss of appetite
Neurological effects include encephalopathy, which can manifest as asterixis (flapping tremor)
CKD can also cause pericarditis and increase the risk of bleeding
Imbalance of electrolytes, especially potassium, can lead to dangerous complications

Diagnosis of CKD is based on the decline in glomerular filtration rate (GFR)
GFR below 90 indicates suspicion, while GFR below 60 confirms irreversible kidney damage
Kidney biopsy may be performed to assess changes like glomerulosclerosis
Treatment of CKD involves addressing the underlying cause
In severe cases, dialysis or kidney transplantation may be necessary