Medical Myths: Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease

Your kidneys perform many essential functions, but their main job is filtering your blood and getting rid of toxins and excess water in your body. If your kidneys aren’t working correctly, extra fluids and waste products build up in your blood, leading to serious health problems like heart disease or stroke. 

“Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a gradual loss of kidney function,” said Pankti Tamboli, D.O., a Primary Care Physician at Inspira Medical Group. “It can ultimately lead to kidney failure, which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant.” Understanding CKD and recognizing its symptoms involves understanding the misconceptions about this condition. Here are four common myths about CKD and its treatment. 

Myth #1: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is rare 

False. CKD is a common condition that affects approximately 37 million adults in the United States. The prevalence of CKD increases with age and is also more common in people with certain risk factors like diabetes, hypertension and a family history of kidney disease. Lifestyle factors, including smoking, obesity, a high-sodium diet and the long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can also contribute to the development of CKD. By 2030, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expects kidney disease to affect nearly 17 percent of the population. 

Myth #2: People with CKD always exhibit symptoms of the condition 

False. Approximately 40 percent of people with CKD don’t realize they have reduced kidney function. “In its early stages, CKD doesn’t cause symptoms,” said Dr. Tamboli. “Since symptoms aren’t always present, the only way to definitively determine whether you have kidney disease is through blood and urine testing.” 

The following symptoms may occur as the disease progresses: 

• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite 
• Muscle cramps 
• Difficulty sleeping 
• Dry, itchy skin
• Blood in the urine
• High blood pressure
• Nausea and vomiting 
• Swelling of the feet and hands 
• Increased urination, especially at night 

Myth #3: The causes of Chronic kidney disease are unknown 

False. There are many possible causes of CKD. The most common of these are uncontrolled, high blood pressure and diabetes. Both of these conditions can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, affecting how they function. “CKD can also be caused by glomerulonephritis, a group of diseases that causes inflammation and damage to the kidneys’ filters,” said Dr. Tamboli. “Other conditions, such as genetic disorders, kidney inflammation, urine obstruction and systemic diseases, can also cause harm to your kidneys, leading to CKD.” 

Myth #4: Chronic kidney disease is curable 

False. There is no cure for CKD, but it is a treatable condition. If caught in its early stages, lifestyle changes and medication can help slow the progression. Improving your diet, limiting your sodium intake, exercising regularly and stopping smoking can all help you manage CKD. Early diagnosis is critical for optimal symptom management. 

Inspira offers comprehensive primary care services throughout the South Jersey region. Find a Primary care provider here.