Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Everything You Need to Know

What Is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

CKD refers to a gradual loss of kidney function over months or years. The kidneys lose their ability to:

• Filter waste and excess fluid from the blood

• Regulate blood pressure

• Maintain electrolyte balance

• Support red blood cell production and bone health

CKD is classified into five stages, from mild damage in Stage 1 to complete kidney failure in Stage 5.

Common Causes of CKD

1. Diabetes (Diabetic Nephropathy) – The leading cause of CKD

2. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) – Damages kidney blood vessels

3. Polycystic Kidney Disease – A genetic condition causing cyst formation

4. Recurring Urinary Tract Infections or Kidney Stones

5. Prolonged use of painkillers (NSAIDs) or certain medications

6. Autoimmune diseases like lupus

Symptoms of CKD

CKD often shows no symptoms in early stages, but as it progresses, you may notice:

• Fatigue or weakness

• Swelling in legs, ankles, or feet

• Frequent urination, especially at night

• Loss of appetite or nausea

• High blood pressure

• Shortness of breath

• Foamy urine (protein loss)

• Confusion or difficulty concentrating

How Is CKD Diagnosed?

At Dr. Vaggar Hospital, we use a combination of tests for accurate diagnosis:

• Blood tests – Creatinine, BUN, GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate)

• Urine tests – Protein leakage or blood in urine

• Ultrasound/Imaging – To assess kidney size and structure

• Kidney Biopsy – For detailed analysis of kidney tissue, if needed

CKD Treatment and Management

While there is no complete cure for CKD, its progression can be slowed or managed with proper treatment:

✅ Lifestyle & Diet Modifications

• Low-sodium, low-protein diet

• Fluid balance

• Blood sugar & BP control

• Avoiding nephrotoxic drugs

✅ Medications

• Blood pressure medicines (ACE inhibitors)

• Phosphate binders

• Anemia management drugs

• Diuretics (for swelling)

✅ Dialysis (Stage 5)

When kidneys fail to function, dialysis becomes essential. We offer both:

• Hemodialysis

• Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD)

✅ Kidney Transplant Referral

We help coordinate post-transplant care and immunosuppressive therapy for patients eligible for transplantation.