Understanding the Basics of Chronic Kidney Failure | Dr. Asit Rushikesh Mehta (Hindi)
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) or Chronic Kidney Failure is a silent epidemic affecting millions of people worldwide. In a recent presentation, Dr. Asit Rushikesh Mehta, a Senior Consultant Nephrologist at Narayana Multispeciality Hospital in Ahmedabad, India, explains CKD in detail, covering its causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies. Here’s a breakdown of the key points from his talk.
What is Chronic Kidney Disease?
CKD, also known as Chronic Kidney Failure, is a long-term, progressive loss of kidney function. The kidneys, located on either side of the spine in the abdomen, perform several essential functions, including filtering waste products from the blood, maintaining fluid balance, and regulating electrolytes. When the kidneys fail, these functions are compromised, leading to serious health complications.
The Role of Kidneys in the Body
Dr. Mehta describes the kidneys as the body's "powerful chemical factories." They are responsible for:
- emoving waste and toxins: Kidneys filter harmful waste products from the bloodstream, excreting them in urine.
- egulating body fluids: They control the body's water levels and help balance electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and calcium.
- ormone production: The kidneys release hormones that regulate blood pressure and produce red blood cells, as well as activate vitamin D, crucial for bone health.
Major Causes of Chronic Kidney Disease
Dr. Mehta highlights the primary causes contributing to CKD:
1. Diabetes: Among CKD patients, 50% are affected due to uncontrolled diabetes.
2. igh Blood Pressure: Hypertension causes damage to kidney blood vessels, progressively leading to kidney failure.
3. enetic Conditions: Some genetic diseases, like Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), run in families, causing cysts to develop in the kidneys.
4. idney Stones: Common in regions like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Punjab, untreated kidney stones can lead to chronic kidney issues.
5. elf-Medication: Frequent or long-term use of painkillers without a prescription can severely damage the kidneys.
Risk Factors for Chronic Kidney Failure
Certain factors increase the risk of developing CKD:
- Age: People over 60 are more prone to kidney problems.
- besity: Excess body weight puts strain on the kidneys, increasing the likelihood of CKD.
- moking and Tobacco Use: These habits are associated with a higher risk of kidney disease.
- amily History: Those with a family history of kidney issues should remain vigilant and undergo regular screenings.
Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Failure
One of the challenges in diagnosing CKD is that symptoms often appear late and can be nonspecific. Key signs of kidney failure include:
- Unintended weight loss and loss of appetite
- Persistent fatigue and weakness
- Blood in urine
- Swelling in the ankles, feet, and face due to fluid retention
Prevention and Early Detection
Dr. Mehta emphasizes that early detection is crucial in managing CKD. Regular check-ups, especially for high-risk individuals, are essential to catching kidney issues early. He advises controlling diabetes and blood pressure, avoiding self-medication, and making lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and staying hydrated.
Conclusion
Dr. Asit Rushikesh Mehta’s presentation provides a comprehensive overview of Chronic Kidney Disease, stressing the importance of awareness, early detection, and prevention. Given the silent nature of this disease, a proactive approach, including regular health screenings and lifestyle modifications, can make a significant difference in reducing CKD's impact on individuals and communities.