Chronic renal disease is characterized by a progressive decrease in the functioning of the kidneys. The kidneys no longer perform their essential function of blood filters and no longer eliminate waste food (urea) and waste from the functioning of the muscles (creatinine).
These wastes, called uremic toxins, accumulate in the blood and can lead to coma.
The two main causes of kidney malfunction are either high blood pressure or diabetes.
In addition, other causes are identified:
- hereditary diseases of the kidneys,
- polycystic kidney disease,
- excess cholesterol,
- obesity,
- smoking,
- urinary tract infections,
- kidney stones.
Very often at the beginning of the disease, the symptoms are not obvious. This is a silent disease, hence the importance of regular monitoring of the kidneys by blood and urine tests.
In cases of renal impairment, it is possible to limit the progression of the disease by adopting appropriate lifestyle and prescription of appropriate treatment.
In the most serious cases, a transplant or a dialysis become necessary.
Hemodialysis :
This is the most used technique, its principle is based on the exchange between the blood of the patient and a solution, the dialysate. This exchange removes the food waste, rebalances the blood content of minerals such as sodium and bicarbonate, and eliminates excess water.
Peritoneal dialysis :
Peritoneal dialysis provides extra-renal cleansing using the peritoneum as the exchange membrane between the blood and the dialysis fluid. A sealed catheter, permanently placed (after local anesthesia), allows the transfer of the liquid to the peritoneum. The toxins from the blood and the excess water in the body are removed with this dialysate.
Kidney transplantation :
Kidney transplant, where possible, is the treatment of choice for end-stage renal failure. The grafted kidney most often allows to ensure all the functions of the kidney. This method is preferred today because it improves the expectation and quality of life of the patient.
Because the kidneys play an important role in the proper functioning of our body, it is essential to take care of them by:
- avoiding overweight,
- quitting smoking,
- exercising,
- regularly monitoring blood pressure, diabetes and kidneys,
- eating in a balanced way,
- drinking a sufficient amount of water,
- being vigilant towards medicinal plants and self-medication.
