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Early-Stage Renal Failure

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), approximately 20 million individuals in the US suffer from renal disease, also known as chronic kidney disease (CKD). In the early stages of renal disease, you may not notice any symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, you'll begin noticing problems with your kidneys.

  1. Location

    • Your kidneys are located on both sides of your spine behind your stomach.

    Function

    • Your kidneys work to purify your blood of waste products. This waste is made into urine. In addition, they function to balance your potassium and sodium, according to American Urological Association Foundation (AUAF).

    Warning

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, there are 18 symptoms and signs of renal failure. Some symptoms include anemia, loss of appetite, swelling in your hands and feet and pain in your lower back.

    Considerations

    • Since these signs are not specific to renal disease, your doctor may not be able to detect the disease until your kidney function is approximately 25 percent of its normal function.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Blood tests, like a creatinine level test, are used to diagnose renal disease. With kidney failure, there's an increase in creatinine. According to AUAF, healthy kidneys take creatinine from the blood.

    Treatment

    • Treatment for your early stage CKD involves delaying or preventing the progression of the disease. To do this, you must treat any underlying conditions you have, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, that may be causing your renal disease.

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