Glossary
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), also known as chronic renal disease, is a progressive condition characterized by a gradual loss of kidney function over time. It is a serious, life-threatening disease that affects millions of people worldwide and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The kidneys, which are vital organs in the body, perform numerous functions, including filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood, maintaining the body's electrolyte balance, and producing hormones that regulate blood pressure, red blood cell production, and bone health. When the kidneys are damaged or diseased and cannot perform these functions effectively, CKD can occur.CKD is classified into five stages, from mild (stage 1) to severe (stage 5) disease, based on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), a measure of kidney function. Stage 5 CKD, also known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD), is the most severe form of the disease, where the kidneys have lost nearly all their function, and the patient requires dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive.
The causes of CKD are diverse, but the most common are diabetes and high blood pressure, which together account for about two-thirds of all cases. Diabetes damages the kidneys by causing them to filter too much blood, which over time wears out the filtering units of the kidneys, leading to CKD. High blood pressure, on the other hand, damages the blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to work effectively. Other causes of CKD include glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, prolonged urinary tract obstruction, and certain inherited conditions. CKD often develops slowly, with few signs or symptoms in the early stages. Many people do not realize they have the disease until their kidney function is significantly impaired. Symptoms of CKD may include fatigue, weakness, difficulty concentrating, poor appetite, trouble sleeping, muscle cramps, swollen feet and ankles, persistent itching, and frequent urination, particularly at night. As the disease progresses, the symptoms become more severe, and complications such as high blood pressure, anemia, weak bones, poor nutritional health, and nerve damage may occur.
The diagnosis of CKD is usually made based on a combination of clinical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. These tests may include blood tests to measure the levels of waste products such as creatinine and urea, urine tests to detect abnormalities that can indicate kidney damage, and imaging tests to visualize the kidneys’ structure and size. In some cases, a kidney biopsy may be performed to determine the cause of the kidney disease. The treatment of CKD focuses on slowing the progression of the disease, managing symptoms, and preventing complications. This may involve lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and limiting alcohol intake. Medications may be prescribed to control high blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, treat anemia, and relieve symptoms. In the later stages of the disease, treatment may also include dialysis or a kidney transplant.
In conclusion, Chronic Kidney Disease is a serious, progressive condition characterized by a gradual loss of kidney function over time. It is caused by various conditions, most commonly diabetes and high blood pressure, and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Early detection and management of CKD are crucial to slow the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life of affected individuals. As a nurse, understanding CKD and its implications is essential in providing effective care to patients with this condition.