Kidney disease and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are conditions that cause a gradual loss of kidney function over time. Your kidneys have many important functions, but are primarily responsible for filtering waste products, excess water and other impurities of the blood. Approximately 30 million Americans suffer from kidney disease and CKD, of which nearly 50 percent have underlying conditions that contributed to their CKD.
Which chronic diseases are related to kidney disease and CKD?
The two main causes of kidney disease and CKD are diabetes and high blood pressure, because they damage blood vessels. When blood vessels in the kidneys are damaged, they are unable to work properly. If these conditions are left untreated, they can lead to kidney disease and CKD. There are many chronic diseases that can lead to CKD, including:
- Lupus nephritis
Lupus nephritisis inflammation of the kidney, which is caused by systemic lupus erythematous (SLE), commonly known as lupus. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that targets and attacks its own body tissues. - Glomerular/vascular disorders
Glomerular/vascular disorders affect the blood vessels in the kidneys. These disorders may be caused by a direct result of an infection or a drug that is toxic to the kidneys. They may also result from a disease that affects the entire body, like lupus or diabetes. - Proteinuria & hematuria
Proteinuria is a condition in which there is too much protein in your urine, and hematuria occurs when there is blood in your urine. Because they affect the blood vessels in the kidneys, they can cause a range of other health problems, including kidney disease and CKD. - Fluid & electrolyte disorders
While fluid and electrolyte disorders are primarily caused by reduced kidney function, they can also result from insulin deficiency. The kidneys play an important role in the regulation of fluids and electrolytes. When they malfunction, they can cause imbalances that lead to serious health complications, such as kidney disease and CKD. - Kidney stones
Kidney stones and other acute conditions of the kidney can lead to kidney disease, CKD and kidney failure, if they are not treated quickly and effectively.
For expert chronic kidney disease management in San Antonio, call South Texas Renal Care Group at 210-212-8622 to schedule an appointment. Our goal is to slow the progression of kidney disease, and keep you as healthy as possible through leading-edge treatment programs.
