High risk for kidney problems

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is not curable and if not treated can lead to end stage kidney disease (ESKD). As discussed in the previous chapter, a person with CKD can be asymptomatic, i.e. no symptoms of the disease may be apparent. However if diagnosis of kidney disease is made early, appropriate medical treatment can be rendered and progression to ESKD can be delayed or slowed. So whenever a kidney problem is even suspected, it is advisable to go for immediate check up and early diagnosis.

Who should get their kidneys checked? Who is at high risk for developing kidney problems?

Anyone can develop a kidney problem, but the risk is higher in the presence of :

Symptoms of kidney disease

Swelling of face, feet and
sometimes all over body

Loss of appetite

Nausea and vomiting

High blood pressure

Paleness due to Low haemoglobin

Fatigue

Diabetes

Difficult to control hypertension

Family history of kidney disease, diabetes and hypertension

Chronic tobacco consumption

Chronic intake of pain relievers

Screening in such high risk individuals helps in early detection and diagnosis of kidney disease.

Early stages of chronic kidney disease are usually asymptomatic, laboratory tests are the only way of detection.

Blood Tests

Various blood tests are necessary to establish appropriate diagnosis of different kidney diseases.

• Creatinine and Urea
• Hemoglobin
• Electolytes

Radiological Tests

• Ultrasound of the Kidneys