Kidney Failure
It was reported that in Singapore, 16 new kidney failure patients are diagnosed each day currently. This is a scary number. Here are some notes on kidney failure.
1. Common Causes :
Diabetes : This is the most common cause of kidney failure. When blood sugar binds to proteins, it causes the kidney filters to lose its function to filter toxins effectively
Glomerulonephritis : This is the second most common cause of kidney failure due to kidney inflammation. This is not treatable or preventable, but can be controlled with medicines
High Blood Pressure : HBP can damage the blood vessels in the kidney, thus reducing the kidney's filtration functioning
Exposure to pollutants, including cigarette smoke
Injury to the kidney due to sports etc
Severe dehydration
Certain medications (like some blood pressure medicine) (doctors will switch medications or stop the medicine temporarily for monitoring)
2. Through blood test (or urine test), to check for the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).
> 60 : considered normal
30 to 59 : Stage 3 - usually no symptoms, but need to seek doctor's advice.
15 to 20 : Stage 4 - kidney is moderately to severely damaged, need to start discussing procedures with doctor.
< 15 : Kidney is almost failing. Once kidney fails, will need dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Learning Points:
- Early detection, speak with your doctor
- Excessive alcohol leads to inflammation of the kidney. Drink only on special occasions, if necessary. Cut away social drinking.
- Smoking reduces the effectiveness of medicines, like high blood medicines. High Blood Pressure can lead to damage of the kidney.
- Drinking excessive soda (carbonated drinks) can lead to formation of kidney stones, thus hurting the kidney too.
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