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Abnormal Kidney Function Treatment

Abnormal kidney function can seriously impair one's life. Kidney disease, in particular, can be hard to deal with and requires prompt and rigorous treatment. Since there is no cure, it is especially important that you take immediate action. There are several causes of abnormal kidney function, including high blood pressure, excessive use of analgesic medications, diabetes, atherosclerosis, sickle cell disease, cancer, kidney stones and HIV. Treatments will vary slightly depending on the cause of your abnormal kidney function, but they are similar for the most part.

  1. Get High Blood Pressure Under Control

    • If you have high blood pressure, it can contribute to abnormal kidney function, so controlling this is of the utmost importance. You should make it your goal to keep your blood pressure below 130/80 mm Hg. You may wish to keep a blood pressure monitor on hand to check how you're doing daily. ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers may be necessary to keep your blood pressure under control.

    Reining in Blood Glucose

    • If you have diabetes, out-of-control blood glucose levels can reek havoc on your kidneys. To avoid these unnecessary complications, follow your doctor's orders on how to manage your diabetes. This typically involves maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and taking your prescribed medications.

    Diuretics

    • Taking diuretics can be helpful in treating the water retention that goes along with abnormal kidney function. This will help the body purge itself of excess water and help you avoid bloating. Even so, this treatment method is not appropriate for every patient with kidney problems.

    Dietary Changes

    • To live with kidney problems, you'll need to change your eating habits. Your diet will need to be low in sodium and protein to keep your symptoms at bay. Depending on your type of kidney problem, you may also need to restrict how much water you drink, as drinking too much can cause you to retain liquids and bloat. Potassium and phosphorous may also need to be limited, as your kidneys may not be able to process the former and the latter is best to avoid to help maintain your bone strength.

    Dialysis

    • Should your kidney function worsen, dialysis is often an option doctors turn to. Two types of treatment are used. The first is called hemodialysis and involves moving your blood through a dialysis machine to clean it and return it to the body. The second is called peritoneal dialysis, which involves using the peritoneum, a lining in your abdomen, to filter your blood. This is done by inserting a catheter in your abdomen.

    Transplantation

    • If your abnormal kidney function has reached levels that can no longer be managed by the treatments above, a kidney transplant may be your best option. A successful transplant can help you lead a long and healthy life following surgery.

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