Signs of Chronic Kidney Disease

Unlike Acute failure which is sudden and severe, chronic kidney disease involves a gradual loss of kidney function.  The sooner you detect it, the more of your kidneys you can save, and the sooner you can slowdown or halt progression of kidney damage.  If you see these signs, then take healthy steps to de-stress your kidneys, and see a doctor right away for diagnosis:

• Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite

• Fatigue and weakness, decreased mental sharpness

• Sleep problems

• Urinating more or less

• Muscle cramps

• Swelling of feet and ankles

• Dry, itchy skin

• High blood pressure (hypertension) that's difficult to control

• Shortness of breath, if fluid builds up in the lungs

• Chest pain, if fluid builds up around the lining of the heart

About Haemodialysis

When a kidney is permanently damaged over time, a condition called chronic kidney disease, often haemodialysis (dialysis) is recommended.  In haemodialysis, a machine acts like an "artificial kidney" to filter wastes, salts and fluid from your blood.  With haemodialysis, you can still carry on an active life despite failing kidneys, and will need to:

• Follow a strict treatment schedule

• Take medications regularly

• Make changes in your diet

For low to middle income families, Hope Kidney Foundation will provide dialysis, education on at-home health management, and at home supplies, free of cost.