Several kidney disorders can impair kidney function and overall health. Common kidney disorders include:
1. Acute kidney injury (AKI):
Cause: Sudden loss of kidney function due to factors like reduced blood flow, direct kidney damage, or urine flow blockage.
Key Points: Requires rapid intervention to prevent permanent damage.
2. Chronic kidney disease (CKD):
Cause: Gradual loss of kidney function, often due to conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or glomerulonephritis.
Key Points: Can progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.
3. Glomerulonephritis:
Inflammation of the glomeruli, which can be caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, or other factors.
Glomerulonephritis can lead to proteinuria, hematuria, and reduced kidney function.
4. Kidney stones:
Cause: Inflammation of the glomeruli, often caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, or other factors.
Symptoms: Can lead to proteinuria (protein in urine), hematuria (blood in urine), and reduced kidney function.
5. Polycystic kidney disease (PKD):
Cause: A genetic disorder that causes numerous fluid-filled cysts to form in the kidneys.
Symptoms: Kidney enlargement, pain, and reduced kidney function.
6. Nephrotic syndrome:
Cause: High protein loss in urine, low protein in blood, high cholesterol, and swelling, caused by various kidney disorders such as diabetic nephropathy or minimal change disease.
Symptoms: Proteinuria, edema, and abnormal cholesterol levels.
7. Urinary tract infections (UTIs):
Cause: Bacterial infections of the urinary system, which can affect the kidneys (pyelonephritis), bladder (cystitis), or urethra (urethritis).
Key Points: If untreated, UTIs can lead to kidney damage.
8. Kidney cancer:
Cause: Most commonly renal cell carcinoma, originating in the renal tubules.
Key Points: Early detection and treatment are crucial for a better prognosis.
Maintaining proper kidney health is essential through a healthy lifestyle, regular checkups, and prompt treatment of any kidney-related issues to prevent further complications.