Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition characterized by a gradual loss of kidney function over time. It is a significant global health concern, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. The Chronic Kidney Disease Department at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute is dedicated to the early detection, management, and comprehensive care of individuals living with CKD. With a multidisciplinary team of nephrologists, nurses, dietitians, and support staff, the department aims to provide personalized treatment plans, education, and support to optimize kidney health and enhance overall well-being.

Stages of CKD:

CKD is categorized into five stages based on the severity of kidney damage and decline in function. The department provides specialized care tailored to each stage, ensuring appropriate interventions and treatments are administered.

• Stage 1: Kidney damage with normal or slightly elevated function. Management focuses on identifying and addressing underlying causes and implementing lifestyle modifications to slow progression.
• Stage 2: Mild reduction in kidney function. Close monitoring and early intervention strategies are emphasized to prevent further decline.
• Stage 3: Moderate reduction in kidney function. Comprehensive management plans, including dietary adjustments and medication regimens, are initiated.
• Stage 4: Severe reduction in kidney function. Preparation for renal replacement therapy (e.g., dialysis or transplant) becomes a primary focus.
• Stage 5: End-stage kidney disease (ESKD) necessitating renal replacement therapy. Patients are guided through the process of selecting and initiating the most suitable form of treatment.

Diseases Treated by the Department

• Hypertension: High blood pressure is both a cause and a complication of CKD. Controlling blood pressure is crucial in slowing the progression of kidney damage.
• Diabetes Mellitus: Diabetes is a leading cause of CKD. Tight glucose control can help prevent or slow down the progression of diabetic nephropathy.
• Glomerulonephritis: This group of diseases causes inflammation and damage to the kidney's filtering units. Treatment may involve immunosuppressive drugs, depending on the specific type of glomerulonephritis.
• Polycystic Kidney Disease: This genetic disorder is characterized by the growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys. Management focuses on controlling symptoms and complications such as high blood pressure and infections.
• Renal Artery Stenosis: Narrowing of the arteries that supply the kidneys can lead to CKD. Treatment can include medications, and in some cases, procedures to restore blood flow.
• Recurrent Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis): Frequent infections can lead to scarring and kidney damage. Long-term antibiotics may be needed to prevent recurrence.
• Obstructive Uropathies: Conditions like kidney stones and enlarged prostate that block the flow of urine can cause CKD. Treatment can range from surgical intervention to medications that address the underlying cause.
• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Lupus can affect the kidneys, leading to lupus nephritis. Management often involves corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs.
• Renal Tubular Acidosis: This condition prevents the kidneys from properly acidifying urine. Treatment typically involves correcting electrolyte imbalances and administering alkali substances.
• Interstitial Nephritis: Inflammation of the kidney's tubules and surrounding structures often requires corticosteroids or other anti-inflammatory medications.
• Complications of CKD: As CKD progresses, treatments also focus on managing complications like anaemia (often with erythropoietin-stimulating agents), bone disease (with phosphate binders or vitamin D analogues), and electrolyte imbalances.

Management of Chronic Kidney Disease

• Regular Monitoring and Blood Tests: Frequent monitoring of kidney function through blood tests (like serum creatinine, and BUN) and urine tests (to check for protein, blood, or other abnormalities) is vital to track the progression of CKD.
• Blood Pressure Control: Hypertension is both a cause and a consequence of CKD. Monitoring and controlling blood pressure through lifestyle changes and medications (like ACE inhibitors or ARBs) are crucial.
• Management of Blood Glucose Levels: In diabetic patients, controlling blood sugar levels is essential to prevent or slow the progression of diabetic nephropathy, a common cause of CKD.
• Dietary Changes: A dietitian may recommend dietary modifications to reduce the burden on the kidneys. This often includes limiting protein intake, controlling fluid consumption, and monitoring potassium and phosphorus levels.
• Medication Management: Adjusting dosages of medications to align with kidney function and avoiding drugs that are harmful to the kidneys (like certain NSAIDs and aminoglycosides) is essential.
• Renal Replacement Therapy: In advanced stages of CKD, dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) or a kidney transplant may be necessary. These procedures are life-sustaining for individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
• Treatment of Complications: Addressing complications of CKD such as anaemia (possibly with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents), bone disease (with vitamin D supplements or phosphate binders), and acidosis (with sodium bicarbonate).

Key Advantages of The Department

• Slowing Disease Progression: Early detection and management of CKD can significantly slow the progression of the disease, delaying the need for more intensive treatments like dialysis or kidney transplantation.
• Reducing Risk of Complications: Effective management of CKD can help in reducing the risk of complications, such as cardiovascular disease, which is common in patients with kidney disease.
• Improved Quality of Life: Proper management of CKD can alleviate symptoms like fatigue, swelling, and nausea, thereby improving the patient’s overall quality of life.
• Prevention of End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD): Early and aggressive treatment can delay, or even prevent, the progression to ESRD, where the kidneys fail completely, necessitating dialysis or transplantation.
• Management of Comorbid Conditions: Many patients with CKD also have other conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. Effective CKD management includes controlling these conditions, which can also have broader health benefits.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Early intervention and management of CKD can be more cost-effective in the long run by reducing the need for more expensive treatments and hospitalizations associated with advanced kidney disease.
• Reduction in Mortality Risk: By managing the progression of CKD and its associated risks, there is a potential reduction in the overall mortality risk.
• Better Planning for Future Treatments: Early detection of CKD allows patients and healthcare providers to plan for potential future treatments, including the possibility of a kidney transplant.

Call 011-42888888 to book an appointment with a specialist at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute.