Chronic kidney disease

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Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD), also known as chronic renal disease (pronunciation: /ˈkrɒnɪk ˈkɪdni dɪˈziːz/), is a type of kidney disease in which there is gradual loss of kidney function over a period of months or years.

Etymology

The term "chronic" is derived from the Greek word "chronos" which means time, indicating a long-term condition. "Kidney" is derived from the Old English word "cwið", meaning womb, a reference to the kidney's role in filtering waste. "Disease" comes from the Old French "desaise", meaning lack of ease.

Symptoms

Early on there are typically no symptoms. Later, leg swelling, feeling tired, vomiting, loss of appetite, or confusion may develop. Complications may include heart disease, high blood pressure, bone disease, or anemia.

Causes

Chronic kidney disease is caused by diabetes, high blood pressure, and other disorders.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on a blood test for creatinine, which is used to calculate an estimate of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which determines the stage of the disease.

Treatment

Treatment may include medications to lower blood pressure, control blood glucose, and lower cholesterol. Dialysis or kidney transplant may be required if the disease progresses.

Related Terms

  • Nephrology: The branch of medicine that deals with the physiology and diseases of the kidneys.
  • Renal failure: A medical condition in which the kidneys fail to adequately filter waste products from the blood.
  • End-stage renal disease (ESRD): The last stage of chronic kidney disease. This is when your kidneys are no longer able to support your body's needs.

External links

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