Frequently Asked Questions

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) or Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) is defined as kidney dysfunction-deficiency greater than three months from its diagnosis. It is a condition with a progressive, irreversible decline in kidney function caused by kidney damage of various aetiologies. Sometimes, CKD can lead to kidney failure or end-stage kidney disease, which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Anyone can develop CKD at any age. However, some people are at greater risk than others. The most common risk factors for CKD are:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Heart disease and/or heart failure
• Obesity
• Age over 60 years old
• Family history of CKD or renal failure
• Personal history of acute kidney injury (AKI)
• Smoking and/or use of tobacco products

For a large percentage of people, CKD is not caused by a single cause. Rather, it is the result of many natural, environmental, and social factors. Knowing the risk factors can help you know your level of risk and whether you need to undergo screening for CKD.

The only way to know for sure if you have CKD is to perform the appropriate tests. Some of the symptoms a patient may experience are:

• Dry and itchy skin
• More frequent urination
• Foamy urine
• Blood in urine
• Persistent swelling around the eyes
• Swollen ankles and feet
• Decreased appetite
• Muscle cramps

It is important to see your doctor if symptoms persist and especially if you are at risk of factors that can cause CKD.

The diagnosis of Chronic Renal Failure is made with two simple tests:

• a blood test known as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)
• urine test that measures the relationship between albumin and creatinine in the urine

These two tests give a clear picture of kidney health. If someone has an eGFR below 60 and/or uACR above 30 for three months or more, then it is likely that they have CKD.

There is no cure for Chronic Kidney Disease or End Stage Kidney Disease. However, there are ways to manage them that can help sufferers enjoy a fully productive life. If you have CKD, it is important to have regular check-ups, as with early diagnosis and treatment, you may be able to slow the progression of the disease.

During hemodialysis, blood is removed from a vein in the patient's arm or leg and,  through a filter placed in a machine called an “artificial kidney,” circulates to, filters, and returns to the body through the patient's vein.

During dialysis, the patient is placed in a seat with an adjustable back and thus is given the opportunity to use this time constructively as he can either read, or deal with his mobile or laptop, watch TV, listen to music, talk and even sleep as there is no discomfort during dialysis. However, it is not possible during this process to walk.

Ideally patients are advised to adhere to their planned treatments in order to maintain clearance from toxins and excess fluids. A dialysis patient should receive hemodialysis three times a week and a peritoneal dialysis patient should receive their treatments daily. If any deviation from the above instructions is necessary, it would be advisable for the patient to discuss this with their nephrologist in charge.

Some lifestyle changes favor the effectiveness of your dialysis treatment, boost your energy, and improve your overall health.

You should follow a kidney-friendly diet, monitor your fluid intake, take medications as directed by your doctor, not skip dialysis sessions, maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular physical activity, maintain a healthy weight, and try to manage your stress.

The team of doctors who monitor you is by your side throughout the duration of your dialysis and gives you valuable advice on all the changes you need to follow.