As a nephrologist, I often work with patients newly diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Many of them are still in the early stages of kidney damage. I reassure them that kidney failure isn’t inevitable. Together, there’s a lot we can do to help slow or even stop the progression of CKD — and an early diagnosis is a golden opportunity to do just that.
What is CKD?
CKD develops when the kidneys gradually lose their ability to clean the blood, which allows waste and excess fluid to build up in the body. Certain diseases and chronic medical conditions such as hypertension and diabetes can damage parts of the kidney and cause chronic scarring of the kidney over time.
In its earliest stages, CKD often has no symptoms and is only detected with blood and urine tests. But kidney damage is progressive and can lead to kidney failure. At that point, a patient will need to consider dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Finding and treating CKD early can help to prevent that. And that typically starts with lifestyle changes. Here’s what I tell my patients about how they can take control of their condition.
Have a kidney action plan
If you have CKD, a nephrologist can help you maintain your kidney function as long as possible. I work with my patients to develop a personalized plan. While the details vary, that often includes these kidney-friendly steps:
Adapt your diet and maintain a healthy weight
I recommend limiting salt (sodium), which can help control blood pressure better. Eat a healthy diet to help maintain a good weight.
Managing kidney disease takes a team. That’s why I recommend that my patients work with a dietitian for specific advice on how to get the nutrients they need while doing what’s best for their kidneys.
Control your blood pressure
High blood pressure damages blood vessels in the kidneys. It’s a major reason for rapid progression of CKD. I often prescribe blood pressure-lowering medications for my patients with CKD. Losing weight and reducing your salt intake can help with blood pressure control as well.
Manage diabetes
Many of my patients with CKD also have diabetes; a leading cause of CKD. It’s crucial to follow a diabetes treatment plan and control blood sugar to prevent further kidney damage.
Medications that reduce risk of CKD progression
There are many new medications that have been shown in clinical trials to substantially reduce the risk of CKD progression and also reduce cardiovascular risk, which is increased in patients with CKD. Seeing your doctor early can result in starting these medications sooner.
Keep moving
Exercise (like brisk walking) can help lower your blood pressure. It also helps you manage high cholesterol, a heart disease risk factor that is common in people with CKD.
Choose activities you enjoy. It’s easier to stick with it—and reap the benefits. You might start with 10-minute workouts, and then add a little more each week.
Manage stress
Being diagnosed with kidney disease can be upsetting. Managing stress can help you feel better and be healthier. Physical activity can help you feel less stressed. So can making a little time each day for:
- Hobbies
- Relaxation exercises
- Music or other activities you enjoy
Mind your mental health
A strain on your mental health can make it hard to manage kidney disease successfully. If you think you might need help with this, let your doctor know. Effective treatments are available.
Stop smoking
Smoking can make kidney disease worse. But quitting now may help prevent more damage to your kidneys. Ask your doctor for help. They can recommend options like nicotine replacement or medicines to ease cravings or connect you to a smoking cessation program.
Get check-ups and lab tests
Ask your doctor about when to have urine and blood tests to monitor how your CKD is progressing. You may also need tests to monitor your blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, and other health factors. You may also be able to start medications early that prevent the progression of CKD.
Helping you manage kidney disease
At Temple Health, our nephrologists have the expertise to help you learn the most effective ways to manage CKD and preserve kidney function at every stage of the disease, including kidney transplants and other advanced options for end-stage kidney disease through Temple’s Kidney Transplant Program.
If you are living with CKD or think you may be at risk for it, schedule an appointment with a Temple nephrologist. Call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) or request an appointment online.
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