Kidney Disease: Causes, Stages and Treatment Options

Kidney disease, also known as renal disease, affects millions of people worldwide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one in seven adults in the United States are estimated to have chronic kidney disease (CKD), and most of those cases are undiagnosed. Approximately 40 percent of people with severely reduced kidney function are unaware they have CKD. When left untreated, it is one of the leading causes of death in the U.S.

The Role of Kidneys

The kidneys are bean-shaped organs located in the lower back that are crucial to the human body. One of the primary functions of the kidneys is to filter waste products and excess substances from the blood to produce urine. They also maintain fluid and electrolyte balance in the body by regulating the amount of water reabsorbed into the bloodstream and the concentration of electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and calcium in the blood. This balance is essential for proper cell function, nerve transmission and muscle contraction. Additionally, the kidneys help to regulate blood pressure and produce hormones essential for various bodily functions, including bone health and red blood cell production.

“The kidneys are extraordinary organs with a multitude of vital functions essential for maintaining overall health and well-being,” Hattiesburg Clinic nephrologist Brian S. Rifkin, MD, said. “It is important to give them proper care and attention to ensure they remain healthy and functional throughout our lives.”

What is Chronic Kidney Disease?

Chronic kidney disease is a condition in which the kidneys are damaged and cannot filter blood properly. Because of this, excess fluid and waste from blood remain in the body, which can lead to heart disease, stroke, infections and other health problems.

The two most common causes of CKD are high blood pressure and uncontrolled diabetes. Around 70% of Americans will develop high blood pressure in their lifetime, and one in 10 Americans have diabetes. Because these conditions are so common, they are the most likely risk factors for kidney disease. However, kidney disease can also be caused by genetics, certain medical conditions and lifestyle factors. Smoking, obesity, unhealthy diet choices and inadequate hydration can all put strain on the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney damage.

Chronic kidney disease is broken into five stages. It often progresses silently in its early stages, with symptoms becoming more apparent as the condition advances. Common symptoms of kidney disease include fatigue, swelling in the face and extremities, changes in urine production, blood in the urine, high blood pressure, shortness of breath and nausea. Recognizing these symptoms and seeking treatment is key to early detection of CKD. CKD often cannot be cured, but it can be managed. According to Hattiesburg Clinic nephrologist Daniel M. Habeeb, MD, many individuals with controlled CKD can live a normal healthy life if they follow their treatment plan.

“With early detection and appropriate interventions, the progression of kidney disease can often be slowed, allowing individuals to live fulfilling lives despite this chronic condition,” Habeeb said. “If you are experiencing any symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor so proper tests can be done. The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat.”

Stages of CKD and Treatment Options

Stage 1 Kidney Disease

The initial stage of kidney disease often goes unnoticed as there might be no symptoms present. At this stage, the kidneys still function normally. However, tests may reveal signs of kidney damage, such as abnormal levels of protein in the urine or imaging showing abnormalities. Treatment focuses on identifying and managing the underlying causes of CKD, such as hypertension or diabetes, and adopting a kidney-friendly diet and lifestyle.

Stage 2 Kidney Disease

There is mild damage to the kidneys and a slight loss of function, but nothing significant. Patients may start experiencing symptoms like fatigue, changes in urinary habits, and mild swelling in the ankles and feet. Medical interventions become more crucial at this stage to slow down the progression of kidney disease. This may involve medications to control blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and lifestyle modifications like dietary changes and regular exercise.

Stage 3 Kidney Disease

There is mild to moderate kidney damage, and the kidneys have some loss of function. Symptoms become more pronounced, including increased fatigue, swelling, changes in urine output and electrolyte imbalances. Patients may require closer monitoring by health care professionals and nephrologists to manage complications effectively. Treatment strategies aim to preserve remaining kidney function and prevent complications like anemia and bone disease.

Stage 4 Kidney Disease

Moderate to severe kidney damage is present, and the kidneys are on the brink of end stage kidney failure. Symptoms become more severe, impacting daily life and overall well-being. Patients may experience persistent fatigue, nausea, itching, muscle cramps and difficulty concentrating. Treatment options at this stage include preparing for dialysis or kidney transplant, managing complications and optimizing symptom control through medications and dietary modifications.

Stage 5 Kidney Disease: Kidney Failure

Kidney damage is very severe, and end stage renal disease (ESRD) is present or imminent. At this point, the kidneys can no longer maintain the body’s internal environment adequately, leading to a buildup of waste products and fluid imbalances. Dialysis or kidney transplant becomes necessary for survival. Patients with ESRD require comprehensive care from a multidisciplinary team, including nephrologists, transplant surgeons, dietitians and social workers, to manage their condition and improve quality of life.

Dialysis is a life-sustaining treatment for individuals with kidney failure. Dialysis is a therapeutic treatment that utilizes an artificial kidney “dialyzer” that filters and removes excess fluid from your blood. There are two primary types of dialysis – hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. In hemodialysis, blood is removed from the body and filtered through a dialyzer. The cleaned blood is then returned to the body. This process typically takes place at a dialysis center several times a week. Peritoneal dialysis involves the use of the peritoneum, a membrane lining the abdominal cavity, as a filter. A cleansing fluid called dialysate is introduced into the abdomen through a catheter. Waste products and excess fluids pass from the blood vessels into the dialysate, which is then drained from the body. Peritoneal dialysis can be performed at home.

Jasmine T. Washington, MD, a nephrologist with Hattiesburg Clinic, works with patients in need of dialysis to ensure each patient receives personalized care.

“We have 15 dialysis locations in Mississippi, so our patients can receive treatment close to home,” Washington said. “We understand how time-consuming dialysis can be, so our main goal is to create a comfortable and accessible environment.”

Why Choose Hattiesburg Clinic?

As a patient within the Hattiesburg Clinic network, our specialized team of nephrologists, nurse practitioners, nurses, certified technicians, administrators, social workers, dietitians, biomedical engineers and ancillary personnel will work closely with you to develop an individualized plan of care. We will spend as much time as you need answering all your questions and providing you with information regarding your medical condition. Additionally, we will be available to answer any questions you have following your appointment.

Through our network of specialists, we can offer a wide range of kidney care options, including dialysis access procedures right here in our office. Our 5-star dialysis units are managed locally, not by a corporation, so patients can be sure they are receiving the highest quality end-stage renal treatment in their own community. Our dialysis locations also offer convenient dialysis schedules that best meet your needs.

To learn more about the nephrology services provided at Hattiesburg Clinic, call (601) 268-5700 or visit us online at www.hattiesburgclinic.com/nephrology.