ronic kidney disease is the gradual loss of kidney function. Normally the kidneys filter wastes and excess fluids from the blood and eliminates them in the urine, but with advanced kidney disease, these wastes and fluid can build up in your body.
Treatment for chronic kidney disease focuses on slowing the progression of the kidney damage, usually by controlling the underlying cause. Chronic kidney disease can progress to end-stage kidney failure, which could be fatal without artificial filtering (dialysis) or a kidney transplant.
Signs and symptoms of chronic kidney disease usually develop over a period of time and may be nonspecific. That is because the kidneys are adaptable and able to compensate for lost function. Symptoms may not be recognized until damage has occurred, so it is important to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms. Some symptoms include:
- Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
- Tiredness, weakness, sleep problems
- Changes in how much you urinate
- Swelling of feet, shortness of breath, chest pain
- Muscle cramps, itching
- High blood pressure
Chronic kidney disease can occur when a disease causes damage to the kidneys such as diabetes, high blood pressure, inflammation or infections of the kidneys or other kidney related conditions. If you have any of these conditions, it is important to see your doctor on a regular basis to monitor your health. Factors that may increase your risk of chronic kidney disease include diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, family history, abnormal kidney structure, or being of older age. To reduce the risk of developing kidney disease, prevention is the best strategy. Follow over-the-counter medication instructions. Don’t smoke and watch your weight. And follow up with your doctor or healthcare provider on a routine basis if you have a medical condition.
St. Therese of Lisieux will be hosting a presentation on kidney disease by Greenfield Health Services on May, 1, 2025. Thursday from 12:00pm-1:00pm following the Rambling Roses meeting in the Social Hall. Vicotria Laurenzi-Jump, a Kidney Disease educator will be our presenter. Topics will include signs, symptoms, and treatment of kidney disease, how to manage everyday activities and avoid complications, understanding fluid and diet restrictions, dialysis, and other information about kidney disease.
Please RSVP to the Parish Office or Marilyn Cito at 586-254-4433 Ext.#320 or via email at Marilync@stol.church since a light lunch will be provided.
