Kidney Disease
Kidney disease, also known as renal disease, refers to a condition in which the kidneys are damaged and their function is impaired. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste products and excess fluids from the blood, regulating electrolyte levels, and producing hormones that control blood pressure and red blood cell production. Kidney disease can affect people of all ages, including seniors.
All About Kidney Disease
Here are some important points to know about kidney disease in seniors:
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Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): CKD is a long-term condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their function over time. It is often caused by conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, which are more common in older adults. CKD is typically classified into five stages based on the level of kidney function, with the final stage requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation.
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Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): AKI is a sudden and severe loss of kidney function that can occur due to various factors such as dehydration, medication side effects, infections, or underlying health conditions. Seniors may be more susceptible to AKI due to age-related changes and an increased likelihood of having multiple medical conditions.
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Common Symptoms: Symptoms of kidney disease in seniors can include fatigue, decreased appetite, weight loss, changes in urine frequency or volume, swelling in the legs or ankles, difficulty concentrating, and anemia. However, it's important to note that kidney disease can often be asymptomatic, especially in the early stages, making regular screenings important for early detection.
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Management and Treatment: The treatment of kidney disease aims to slow down the progression of the disease, manage symptoms, and prevent complications. This often involves lifestyle modifications such as adopting a healthy diet, reducing salt and protein intake, managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and avoiding nephrotoxic medications. In advanced stages, dialysis or kidney transplantation may be necessary.
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Prevention: Seniors can reduce their risk of kidney disease by managing underlying health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding excessive use of non-prescription pain medications, and getting regular check-ups to monitor kidney function.
It's worth noting that the information provided here is a general overview, and it's important to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options for kidney disease.
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