Kidney disease is one of the fastest-growing noncommunicable diseases in the United States, according to the American Kidney Fund. Nationwide, roughly 15% of American adults – 37 million people – suffer from chronic kidney disease.

Acting chameleon-like, chronic kidney disease’s signs and symptoms go unnoticed in a vast majority of patients until a diagnosis occurs.

Many people don’t realize their chronic kidney disease is something they may already have or have been at risk for quite some time.

The kidneys are vital organs that perform a variety of key functions: they filter blood for toxins, remove the body’s excess waste and fluids and regulate blood pressure, balance important electrolytes and minerals and stimulate red blood cell production.

When our kidneys are compromised in their ability to carry out any of these tasks, the consequences can be debilitating and even life-threatening. Chronic kidney disease progresses from stage 1 to stage 5, after which point patients require kidney replacement therapy in the form of dialysis or kidney transplant. Unfortunately, many patients are at-risk progressing very quickly toward kidney failure, whereas others can maintain stable kidney function very gradually.

Disease progression, experts say, can often be slowed when patients take an active role in making permanent, healthy lifestyle changes.”

The most common causes of chronic kidney disease in Americans are diabetes and high blood pressure. Roughly 37% of the US population have either diabetes or pre-diabetes, and 45% suffer from high blood pressure. Both diseases are perpetuated by unhealthy lifestyle choices.

Making strides towards more disciplined food selections, portion control, increasing physical activity and eliminating smoking will help decrease the risk of chronic kidney disease. These healthy lifestyle choices can also slow the disease’s progression. Even small changes can make a big difference.

Always let your doctor know if you are taking additional supplements or over-the-counter medications. Be sure to take medications only as prescribed. Many medications can be affected by chronic kidney disease if the kidneys cannot process those substances due to being damaged. Likewise, some medications contribute to developing kidney disease such as antacid medications and the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

People are encouraged to meet regularly with their healthcare provider to screen for risk factors for kidney disease.

At Freeman Kidney Center, highly skilled, board-certified nephrologists treat conditions such as acute renal failure, chronic kidney disease, hematuria or blood in the urine, and proteinuria or excess protein in the urine. With appropriate intervention, kidney patients can work and live normal lives. For details, called 417.347.8570.