Kidney disease, also known as renal disease, is not just a medical condition but also a life-altering experience with one in three Americans at risk for it, according to the National Kidney Foundation. As a primary care doctor, I want to provide you with an understanding of kidney disease, highlighting risk factors, symptoms, and the critical role of primary care in managing the condition to help you live well.
What is kidney disease
Your kidneys are a special filter system for your body that removes wastes and toxins from the blood, produces urine and performs other essential functions. Kidney disease occurs when your kidneys are damaged and cannot filter blood correctly, causing excess fluid and waste to remain in the body, which, if left untreated, can result in severe health complications. Kidney disease is often categorized into acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD), with the latter being more prevalent.
Risk factors, signs and symptoms of kidney disease
Most people with early-stage kidney disease have no symptoms, which means their kidney disease may be advanced by the time symptoms appear. This is why early detection and seeing your primary care doctor or advanced practice provider* (APP) are key to keeping your kidneys working properly.
It is also important that you understand what the risk factors are for kidney disease and if any apply to you. Here are some primary risk factors associated with kidney disease:
- Diabetes is one of the leading causes of kidney disease as high blood sugar levels over time can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste effectively. Studies have shown that approximately 1 in 3 adults with diabetes may develop CKD.
- High Blood Pressure or hypertension is another significant risk factor as it can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their filtering capability.
- A Family History of kidney disease increases your risk as genetic factors can predispose individuals to conditions like polycystic kidney disease (PKD) or other hereditary kidney disorders.
- Aging increases the risk of kidney disease as the natural aging process can lead to a decline in kidney function, making older adults more susceptible to CKD.
- Obesity can lead to conditions like diabetes and hypertension, which are risk factors for kidney disease.
- Smoking can accelerate the progression of kidney disease by damaging blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the kidneys, and increasing the risk of high blood pressure.
If you have any of the risk factors above for kidney disease, you should discuss them with your primary care doctor or APP. In addition, you should be aware of the symptoms for kidney disease below and immediately schedule a visit with them if they appear.
- Fatigue or weakness
- Increased thirst
- Painful urination, and need to urinate, or foamy, pink, or dark urine (blood in urine)
- Puffy eyes and swollen face, hands, abdomen, ankles, and feet
Role of primary care in kidney disease
Your doctor or APP will play a pivotal role in the early detection, management, and treatment of kidney disease by guiding you through the screening process, interpreting the results, and developing a treatment plan that’s right for you. Here are just a few of the ways they will help you:
- Providing Early Detection and Screening: Your primary care doctor or APP is often your first point of care and can:
- Assess Your Risk Factors. Your doctor or APP will evaluate your medical history and existing conditions to understand if you’re at risk for kidney disease.
- Take Blood Pressure Measurement. High blood pressure is a common cause of kidney damage and can help assess your risk for it.
- Order Blood and Urine Tests. Kidney disease can cause abnormal levels of a type of protein in the urine. Therefore, a test will be done of both your urine as well as your blood to find out how well your kidneys are filtering and to check for the protein.
- Develop a Treatment Plan. If you require treatment, you will work with your primary care doctor or APP to develop a treatment plan to manage your kidney disease. At Village Medical, we have created the Stay Well Care Plan which allows you to talk with your doctor or APP and develop an individualized care and wellness plan specific to your health and wellness journey.
- Coordinating Care: Managing kidney disease often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Your primary care team will coordinate care with other specialists, such as nephrologists, to make sure you receive comprehensive treatment.
- Monitoring Progress: Regular visits with your primary care team help monitor the progression of your kidney disease and provide an opportunity to adjust treatment plans as needed. This ongoing care is key for managing your symptoms and preventing complications.
Kidney disease is a serious condition that can significantly impact your quality of life and overall health. However, early detection and proactive management can slow its progression and prevent complications allowing you to live well. If you have concerns about your kidney health or want to learn more about preventive measures, schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor or APP today.
*An advanced practice provider is defined as a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.