Kidney Transplantation
Kidney transplantation is another treatment option for kidney failure. There are many advantages to kidney transplantation. Individuals who undergo kidney transplantation have a greater chance of living a longer life. The transplanted kidney will operate and function like a normal kidney and there will no longer be a need for dialysis. However, kidney transplantation is major surgery and there are chances that your body may reject the new kidney and unless you have a voluntary donor, the wait time for a kidney could prove to be long.
There are several factors that are considered before kidney transplantation takes place including:
• Blood type compatibility. It is critical that your blood type is compatible with the donor’s blood type.
• Human leukocyte antigens (HLAs). If HLAs aren’t a complete match, kidney transplantation may take place as long the blood type matches that of the donor’s and testing shows no other problems.
• Cross-matching antigens. This lab tests looks for a reaction when your donor and recipient blood donors are mixed. As long as there is no reaction, then kidney transplantation may occur.
Dialysis
Kidney failure occurs when the kidneys partially or completely cease from carrying out their normal function. As a result, water, waste and toxic substances build up in the body which may lead to health conditions such as acidosis, anemia and high blood pressure.
One treatment option available for kidney failure is dialysis. Dialysis is an artificial treatment that replaces lost kidney function. Like the kidneys, dialysis maintains blood pressure, removes excess water, waste and salt in the body and regulates the levels of certain chemicals in the blood. Dialysis is generally required for people who have permanently lost kidney function, or stage 5 kidney failure, and for people who are ill and experience a temporary loss of kidney function.
There are two types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. With hemodialysis an artificial kidney is used to remove excess water, waste and chemicals in the blood. Hemodialysis requires the surgical placement of a catheter into the vein of your arm or leg. Blood is carried outside of the body through the catheter and then enters a machine with special filters. The filtrated blood is then transported back into the body by another catheter. Hemodialysis is done three times a week and typically lasts about four hours.
Peritoneal dialysis differs from hemodialysis in that the blood is filtered inside the body. There are several types of peritoneal dialysis-some that involve machinery and can be done by the patient or others that require machinery. Peritoneal dialysis involves the surgical insertion of a catheter into the abdomen. A sterile solution called dialysate is slowly run through the catheter into the abdominal area, or peritoneal cavity, where waste products are then filtered from the blood. The dialysate absorbs the waste products and is then drawn out through a tube. This process is repeated several times.
Dialysis does not cure kidney disease but it does allow a person to lead a normal life.
Types of Kidney Disorders
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hard mineral materials that form in the kidneys or urinary tract and can be caused by a number of factors including excess chemical compounds such as calcium oxalate in the urine, decreased urine volume and infections in the urinary tract. Most common in men, this disorder causes severe pain, nausea and vomiting. With heavy fluid intake, kidney stones typically pass within 48 hours. Medication can also be prescribed to accelerate the rate of the passing of the stones. In other cases, kidney stone removal may require surgery. Kidney stones can be prevented depending on your medical history. The best way to prevent kidney stone formation is to drink plenty of water.
Pyelonephritis
Pyelonephritis is an infection of the kidney and ureters caused by continuous back flow of urine from the bladder to the ureters or kidney pelvis. This disease can occur over time or suddenly. Symptoms of pyelonephritis include back pain, nausea, vomiting, chills, fever, fatigue, painful, foul-smelling or discolored urination. Antibiotics are used to treat this type of condition.
Renal Cell Carcinoma
Renal Cell Carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the kidneys and accounts for approximately 90% of all kidney cancers. Certain factors increase may increase the risk of developing renal cell carcinoma including smoking, obesity and genetics. Some studies suggest workplace exposure to carcinogenic agents enhance increase risk as well. Typical warning signs of renal cell carcinoma include persistent pain in the side, fever, weight loss, blood in the urine, fatigue.
Diabetic Kidney Disease
Diabetic kidney disease, also known as diabetic nephropathy, can damage your kidneys and lead to kidney failure. In fact, diabetes is the most common cause of kidney failure. When diabetics experience kidney failure they must either undergo a kidney transplant or dialysis. However, by controlling your blood glucose it is possible to prevent or delay the onset of kidney disease. Keeping your blood pressure under control is also important. Symptoms of kidney disease include back pain, fever, chills or ketones in the urine. It is important for people living with diabetes to take good care of their health and discuss any concerns they may have with their health care provider.
Overview
The kidneys are small bean-shaped organs that function to filter waste products and extra water from the blood. The kidneys are also vital for regulating the levels of chemicals in the blood. Chronic kidney disease occurs gradually over time and can be caused by a number of ailments including diabetes and hypertension. Kidney impairment can also lead to kidney failure which can be fatal.
Signs of kidney disease are so subtle, that many living with it may not realize they have it. In many cases symptoms appear over time. However, routine blood and urine tests can detect abnormal chemical levels in the blood which are early symptoms of kidney disorder and failure. The following warning signs should prompt you to seek medical treatment as they could indicate kidney disease.
• Difficulty urinating
• Foamy or coffee-colored urine
• Bloody urine
• A decrease in the amount of urine
• Swelling in the hands, feet, ankles and face
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Mid-back pain (flank), below the ribs, near where the kidneys are located
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Fatigue
• Skin Rash/Itching
• Metallic Taste in Mouth
All Doctors - Kidney Disorders
Internal Medicine, Nephrology
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Internal Medicine, Nephrology
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Internal Medicine, Nephrology
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Internal Medicine, Nephrology
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The National Kidney Foundation is a non-profit, voluntary, health organization committed to preventing kidney and urinary tract diseases and improving the health of individuals and families impacted by kidney disease. This site contains an abundance of information on various kidney diseases, organ and tissue donation, and a nutrition and diet guide.
DHHS. National Institutes of Health. Conducts and supports research on diseases affecting public health including kidney and urologic diseases. This website provides information on kidney and urologic diseases.
The American Association of Kidney Patients is a non-profit organization comprised of kidney patients whose mission is to improve the overall health of individuals with chronic kidney disease through education and advocacy.
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Health & Nutrition : How to Prevent Kidney Stones
The best way to prevent kidney stones for those who have never had them is to drink a lot of water. Prevent calcium stones, stervite stones, uric stones and kidney stones caused by hormonal imbalance with tips from a licensed dietitian in this free video on health and nutrition.
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