How to Treat Renal Insufficiency

Kidneys regulate body fluid and blood chemistry. They play a role in regulating blood pressure and removing waste from the body. When the kidneys do not function properly, renal insufficiency will occur. This is due to a reduction in the blood flow to the kidneys. Symptoms can be absent, mild or dangerous depending on the body's response to the condition.

Instructions

• 1

  Know the risk factors for renal insufficiency, which include advanced age, gender, family history, hypertension, smoking, obesity, cholesterol levels, diabetes, race or ethnicity and genetic factors. Having a diagnosis of coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis or peripheral arterial disease can place a patient at greater risk for developing renal insufficiency.

• 2

  Know the symptoms associated with renal insufficiency. Most patients do not experience symptoms in early stages. The development of symptoms occurs as the disease progresses and include fatigue, puffiness or swelling of the hands, feet or ankles, back pain, change in appetite, and change in urine color, amount, or frequency. Hypertension and poor digestion are common problems in renal insufficiency.

• 3

  Determine the correct diagnosis through a physical examination with a physician. Duplex ultrasound scanning, CT angiography and MR angiography will be performed. A contrast angiography is the definitive test for this diagnosis. Laboratory tests may also be ordered by the physician. Once there is a diagnosis of renal insufficiency, the physician will develop a treatment plan in an attempt to stop or slow the insufficiency. Early diagnosis is the most advantageous for the halting of the insufficiency before it becomes a chronic condition

• 4

  Follow the physician's treatment plan. Medications are used for treatment of hypertension, usually in the ACE inhibitor class medications. Altering other medication doses may be necessary. Vitamins D and specific renal vitamins may be added to the plan. Vitamin A should be limited as overdose of this vitamin can have adverse implications for patients with renal insufficiency. Monitoring blood pressure is vital in the treatment plan. Blood tests will be done periodically to monitor kidney functioning.