CKD and its complications

CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease) and its Complications 🩺

🔹 What is CKD?

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) means the gradual and permanent loss of kidney function over months or years.
Kidneys normally filter waste, maintain fluid & electrolyte balance, and regulate blood pressure.
In CKD, these functions decline slowly, leading to accumulation of toxins in the body.

🔹 Stages of CKD (based on GFR – Glomerular Filtration Rate)

⚠️ Complications of CKD

1. Fluid and Electrolyte Imbalance

Edema (swelling) – due to salt and water retention

Hyponatremia, hyperkalemia (high potassium – can cause cardiac arrest)

Metabolic acidosis – due to acid buildup

2. Cardiovascular Complications

Hypertension – both cause and result of CKD

Heart failure due to fluid overload

Pericarditis (inflammation of the heart lining)

Atherosclerosis and stroke risk ↑

3. Anemia

Due to low erythropoietin (EPO) production by kidneys

Leads to fatigue, pallor, shortness of breath

4. Bone and Mineral Disorders

Hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia

Secondary hyperparathyroidism

Leads to renal osteodystrophy (weak, brittle bones)

5. Uremia (Toxin Accumulation)

Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting

Itching (pruritus)

Confusion, seizures, coma in severe cases

6. Endocrine and Metabolic Issues

Insulin resistance

Dyslipidemia (↑ cholesterol/triglycerides)

Reproductive issues – impotence, menstrual irregularities

7. Infections

Lowered immunity → increased susceptibility to infections

8. Neurological Complications

Peripheral neuropathy (tingling, numbness in limbs)

Sleep disturbances

Cognitive decline

🩹 Prevention and Management

Control diabetes and hypertension

Low-salt, low-protein diet (as per stage)

Avoid nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., NSAIDs)

Treat anemia and bone disorders

Dialysis or kidney transplant in ESRD

Tags: by | October 30, 2025, 3:20 pm | 0 Comments

Comments

SUBMIT