The Silent Disease: Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition that affects millions of people all over the world. It is a condition in which the kidneys are not able to filter waste from the body properly, leading to a build-up of toxins and other substances.

If left untreated, CKD can cause several serious health complications, including an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

In Malaysia, the prevalence of end-stage renal disease (ESRD), or kidney failure patients has been steadily increasing over time, with 43,804 people receiving dialysis as of 31 December 2018, according to a 2020 report by the Malaysian Dialysis and Transplant Registry (MDTR).

What are The Risk Factors for Developing Chronic Kidney Disease?

CKD can be caused by several factors, including genetic predisposition, infections, and certain medications.

Polycystic kidney disease is one genetic predisposition that can lead to this disease. Meanwhile, some patients are at a higher risk of developing CKD with these following conditions:

· Diabetes mellitus
· Hypertension
· Hyperuricemia
· Renal stone disease
· Dyslipidemia
· Autoimmune disease like Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
· Chronic painful conditions that requires long term usage of pain killers.

Sri Kota Specialist Medical Centre Dr. Loo Chee Yean, Consultant Nephrologist & Physician says certain medications or toxins are very harmful for our kidneys, "Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) class of painkillers, is top of the list, as it can cause acute interstitial nephritis (inflammation) in the filter units (glomerulus) and tubular damage (fine tubes inside the kidney), subsequently leading to CKD. The worst scenario is taking them in a dehydrated condition."

Other kidney-toxic substances are heavy metals and impurities that are found in some home-made traditional remedies.

Early Signs and Symptoms of a Silent Killer

"The signs and symptoms of CKD can vary widely, in the early stages of the disease, a majority of patients are asymptomatic and have no signs, hence CKD is famously known as a silent killer. However, some of them may have swelling in the hands and feet, reduced urine output, and fatigue," says Dr. Loo.

Dr. Loo added, "Patients must also look out for any urine changes; one of the first indications that the disease has damaged the kidney filters is the presence of bubbles and high protein amounts that have built up over time.”

Chronic Kidney Disease Treatment and Diagnose

Fortunately, there are treatments available for those diagnosed with CKD. These treatments can help slow the progression of the disease and reduce the chance of developing complications.

Some of the most common treatments include lifestyle changes, medications, and dialysis.

Dr. Loo explained, "Living with CKD can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to help manage your condition. Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption can all help to keep your kidneys functioning as well as possible."

"Healthy living is the key preventive step for CKD, as it will reduce the risk of the 3-highs; high blood sugar, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. The incidence rate of chronic diseases like CKD will be lower when we reduce these three things," he added.

Supporting Family Members with Chronic Kidney Disease

When it comes to helping family members with CKD there are many ways to provide support. First, it’s important to be an advocate for their care. This means understanding their condition, talking to their doctor, and attending medical appointments when possible. Additionally, it’s important to research the best treatments and medications available, and to help your family member find the right specialists.

Second, it’s important to provide emotional support. This means being patient and understanding when they need extra time to rest. It also means listening when they want to talk and providing comfort and reassurance.

Finally, providing practical support is key. This may include helping with daily tasks, such as transportation and grocery shopping. Other practical support might include helping them to manage their diet, as well as helping them access any necessary medical equipment.

Regular Health Checks

Chronic kidney disease is a serious condition that can have a large impact on your quality of life. If you think you may be at risk for CKD, it’s important to speak to your doctor as soon as possible. Patients that have risk factors, should be screened for CKD once in three months.

For more information on Sri Kota Specialist Medical Centre (SKSMC) and the treatment options available, kindly visit: https://www.srikotamedical.com/

By Dr. Loo Chee Yean
Consultant Nephrologist & Physician

This content is provided by Sri Kota Specialist Medical Centre