All Things Kidney Diseases

The kidneys are responsible for a variety of vital functions, such as fluid and mineral balance, blood pressure, and blood filtration.
​Dive into all things kidney diseases below. 

Chronic Kidney Disease

According to the National Kidney Foundation, 26 million Americans have Chronic Kidney Disease and millions of others are at an increased risk.  Therefore you may already know someone affected by this disease. If left untreated, Chronic Kidney Disease can progress to kidney failure with need for dialysis or kidney transplant. As with most conditions, if detected early, kidney disease can be managed appropriately to limit the risk of leading to more complicated conditions.
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Stages of Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) progresses through five stages, each reflecting the level of kidney function based on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Early detection and management are key to slowing progression.
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Stage 1: Kidney Damage with Normal Function (GFR ≥ 90)
Kidneys are still functioning normally, but signs of damage (like protein in urine) may be present. Healthy lifestyle changes and regular monitoring are recommended.

Stage 2: Mild Loss of Function (GFR 60–89)
Slight reduction in kidney function. There may still be few symptoms, but monitoring and managing risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes are crucial.

Stage 3: Moderate Loss of Function (GFR 30–59)
Kidney function is noticeably reduced. Symptoms such as fatigue or swelling may begin to appear. Medical management becomes more important at this stage.

Stage 4: Severe Loss of Function (GFR 15–29)
A significant decline in kidney function. Preparing for potential dialysis or transplant often begins here, along with close medical supervision.
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Stage 5: Kidney Failure (GFR < 15)
Also known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Dialysis or a kidney transplant is usually required to maintain life.

Hypo- Hypernatremia

Hyponatremia is an abnormally low level of sodium in the blood.
Hypernatremia is an abnormally high level of sodium in the blood. Sodium helps to balance electrolytes. 
This often can indicate an underlying medical condition or be a result of drinking too much or too little fluid.

​What does sodium affect? 

• Blood pressure- too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure
• Fluid balance outside of the cells
• Potassium levels

Hypo- Hyperkalemia

Hypokalemia is an abnormally low level of potassium in the blood.
Hyperkalemia is an abnormally high level of potassium in the blood. 
Kidney disease is the most common cause of Hyperkalemia.  When the kidneys are damaged or not working properly, they have a hard time removing potassium from the body.  Too much potassium in the body can lead to irregular heart beat or heart attack.

​What does potassium affect? 

• Fluid balance within the cells
• Nerve function
• Muscle contraction
• Heart rate
• Sodium balance

Proteinuria

​Proteinuria is when protein appears in the urine. One of the kidney's functions is to keep protein in the body. When protein appears in the urine it can indicate that the filters in the kidneys are damaged by disease.  This is tested and monitored with urine studies.

What does proteinuria affect? 

• Kidney function
• Fluid balance
• Cardiovascular function
• Indicator of broader healthy issues