Doctor answers most common questions about kidney disease

10% of the population worldwide is affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD), and millions die each year because they do not have access to affordable treatment, states kidney.org. 

Dr Moses Mahlangu describes kidney failure as "when you have inability to excrete waste products that were meant to be excreted by the kidneys, defined by a performance of less than 15ml/min/1.73m² (eg less than 15%)."

Below he states five common causes of kidney disease: 

a)      Type II diabetes mellitus

b)      Hypertension

c)      Drugs/Herbal intoxication

d)      Infections

e)      Autoimmune disease e.g. (Lupus).

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The nephrologist says "the symptoms of renal impairment or kidney disease are non-specific e.g. easy fatigue and muscle cramps. Someone can associate that with being worn-out or tired form work."

When it comes to how ageing affects the function of the kidneys, Dr Mahlangu says: "As you age, you lose your kidney mass, which will lead to increase susceptibility of having kidney damage."

To avoid being prone to kidney disease, the doctor suggests that those who have kidney stones avoid food that contains high oxalate levels .

"The advice is to follow the dietician recommendations in regards to the type of kidney disease the client suffers from."

What are the available treatments for kidney disease? 

The doctor says treatment depends on the type of kidney disease one has. 

Renal failure

 Dialysis

Kidney transplant 

Nephrotic syndrome

Steroids 

Immunosuppressive treatment

Chronic kidney disease  

Control blood pressure and blood glucose 

Sodium-glucose co-transporter inhibitors 

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Disclaimer: Health-related information provided in this article is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems. It is always advisable to consult with your doctor on any health-related issues.

Image courtesy of iStock/ @Natali_Mis