How to Treat Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Failure

Chronic kidney failure is defined as a gradual failure of the kidneys to function properly. This process of failure may take months, and in some cases, even years. Because the kidneys filter wastes from the body and also produce hormones vital to bodily functions, any condition that reduces their efficiency can cause a multitude of medical conditions.While elderly individuals most often experience chronic kidney failure, all age groups and both genders may suffer from this condition.Left untreated, chronic kidney failure leads to end stage renal disease (ESRD) and will may cause death. Learning how to treat symptoms of chronic kidney failure will help individuals maintain quality of life.

Instructions

• 1

  Treat symptoms of kidney failure as directed by your physician. Most treatments focus on slowing the progression of the disease process. Oftentimes, kidney failure is the result of other medical conditions and diseases, so identifying those that are the cause of the kidney dysfunction is the first step toward proper health care.

• 2

  Change your diet if necessary. Because chronic kidney failure brings with it a plethora of symptoms such as weight loss, nausea and vomiting, headaches, changes in urine flow and anemia, it is important to follow dietary recommendations offered by your physician or care provider.

• 3

  Ask about medications that are often used to treat chronic kidney failure. Kidney failure is often treated with medications that lower blood pressure, such as ACE (angiotensin-converting exzyme) inhibitors or receptor blockers. These drugs help to preserve kidney functions in many individuals.

• 4

  Avoid using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or medications. Always make sure that each of your doctor's know what types of medications have been prescribed by other physicians.

• 5

  Educate yourself on the process of dialysis, which is an artificial method used to filter waste products from the body in those individuals suffering from kidney failure. Two different types of dialysis are commonly used. Hemodialysis involves pumping the blood out of your body into an artificial kidney. Peritoneal dialysis involves placing a catheter in your abdominal cavity, which is flushed with fluid and then drained to remove wastes.