Chronic kidney disease is a condition in which the kidneys have difficulty removing toxic substances from the body or, in some cases, lead to fluid retention, notes Dr. Julio César Arriaga García Rendón, nephrology specialist at ABC Medical Center.
This condition arises when the kidneys stop functioning properly, to varying degrees, resulting in health problems for the person affected.
Mexico’s Ministry of Health reports that this disease is one of the leading causes of hospitalization and emergency room visits in the country. To help prevent it, maintain healthy habits: follow a diet low in sodium and fat, avoid alcohol and tobacco, stay physically active daily, and get regular medical checkups.
In the early stages of this disease, symptoms are often not noticeable, but it’s important to watch for signs, such as fluid retention in the body, most commonly in the feet.
Extreme fatigue is common in people with advanced kidney disease, often due to anemia, a condition in which the blood doesn’t have enough red blood cells.
Another common symptom is changes in appetite, which can range from altered taste in food to persistent vomiting, notes Dr. Arriaga.
It’s also worth noting that people at higher risk of developing some degree of kidney disease include those over 60, as well as people with heart conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, or smokers, among other examples.
Chronic kidney disease can develop over the course of a person’s life, but it can also be present from birth.
See a nephrologist to get a proper diagnosis and treatment when needed, they can assess kidney function and identify problems early.
At ABC Medical Center’s Internal Medicine area, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
