What is Chronic Kidney Disease?

by LiveScience Staff

Date: 15 August 2012 Time: 01:02 PM ET

Definition of Chronic Kidney Disease: The gradual loss of kidney function over time, which leads to a buildup of waste products in the body. More than 2 out of every 1,000 people in the U.S. are affected by chronic kidney disease. Below is a brief overview of the causes, symptoms and treatments, plus links to more information.

What Causes Chronic Kidney Disease? High blood pressure and diabetes cause most cases. However, several other conditions can lead to chronic kidney disease including autoimmune disorders, birth defects, kidney stones, infections, and a condition called glomerulonephritis, among others.

Is Chronic Kidney Disease Contagious? No.

Signs & Symptoms: Early symptoms of chronic kidney disease resemble many other conditions. People may experience headache, appetite loss, itching, nausea and weight loss. Other symptoms can be muscle twitches and cramps, hiccups, swelling in the feet and ankles and sleep problems.

Treatment & Remedies: Treatments target the underlying condition that is reducing kidney function. Common prescriptions include ACE inhibitors to manage high blood pressure, statins to reduce cholesterol and diuretics to reduce swelling. Severe cases may require dialysis, a treatment that filters waste materials from blood, or a kidney transplant.

More Facts:

An estimated 23 million adults in the U.S. are affected by chronic kidney disease, according to the NIH.
Often there is no cure for chronic kidney disease.
With good care, fewer than 10 percent of diabetics will develop chronic kidney disease.

Sources and More Information:

This information is not meant to provide specific medical advice. It is for educational purposes only. We recommend you consult a qualified health care professional for diagnoses and treatment advice, and call 9-1-1 in emergencies.