Kidney disease occurs when there is an injury or inflammation in the kidneys that prevents them from functioning properly. It can occur at any age, but most often affects older adults.
Here's what you need to know about this condition.
There are two main types of kidney disease: acute and chronic. Acute kidney disease (AKD) happens suddenly and usually resolves within weeks or months. Chronic kidney disease (CKD), however, develops slowly over years and requires ongoing treatment.
Know the Symptoms.
AKD is often caused by an infection, such as strep throat or urinary tract infections. It can also be caused by certain medications, such as diuretics used to treat high blood pressure. CKD is more common than people think.
Understand the Causes.
There are several different types of kidney diseases. They differ in how quickly they progress and what symptoms they cause. In general, there are two main types of kidney disease: acute and chronic. Acute kidney injury (AKI) occurs when the kidneys fail to work properly within a short period of time. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) happens gradually over months or years. Both AKI and CKD can lead to end stage renal disease (ESRD), which means that the kidneys no longer function well enough to keep the body healthy.
Be Aware of Risk Factors.
A number of things can damage your kidneys, including high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, smoking, alcohol abuse, certain medications, and infections. If you think you might have a problem with your kidneys, talk to your doctor right away.
Take Action.
You can take steps to protect yourself against these risks by eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, controlling your weight, and getting regular checkups.
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