The Causes of Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease, also sometimes referred to as chronic kidney failure or chronic renal disease, is a long-term condition that involves gradual loss of kidney function. As chronic kidney disease (CKD) progresses, the kidneys lose their ability to remove toxins and excess fluid from the body effectively. The loss of kidney function is incremental in five stages and generally occurs over several years. It is important to note that CKD does not always progress to stage 5, commonly called endstage kidney disease or kidney failure. And with effective management of CKD, the progression of the disease can be slowed down substantially.
Common causes of CKD
The causes of CKD are varied and can even be unclear for some patients. CKD often results from other pre-existing health conditions. Here, we will focus on the most common causes.
Diabetes
Diabetes is the most common cause of kidney disease in many parts of the world. High sugar levels in the blood damage the blood vessels in the kidney leading to CKD. Kidney damage can occur in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. If you have diabetes, it is important to ensure that your blood sugar level is under control and monitor other related health issues such as high blood pressure.
Hypertension
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is the second-most common cause of kidney disease. High blood pressure, often coupled with cardiovascular issues, damages the blood vessels in the kidney making high blood pressure one of the top causes of CKD. If you have hypertension, it is vital to monitor and control your blood pressure as high blood pressure can lead to other health issues, including CKD.
Polycystic kidney disease
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a common genetic disorder that is usually diagnosed with a kidney scan. In PKD, cysts develop inside the kidneys impairing kidney function and leading to CKD. Though there is no cure for PKD, the growth rate of cysts and progression of the condition can be reduced.
Systemic lupus erythematosus
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), often referred to as lupus is an autoimmune disease that often affects young women. However, both men and women can develop this condition at any age. Lupus causes the body’s immune system to attack its own tissues and organs. It often affects the kidneys, and this condition is known as Lupus Nephritis. Lupus Nephritis can lead to CKD and even end-stage kidney disease. If you have Lupus, it is important to that you are regularly tested for kidney function as Lupus Nephritis may not display any additional symptoms at onset.
Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis refers to a group of conditions that causes inflammation of tiny filters inside the kidneys called glomeruli. This, typically, leads to protein and red blood cells in the urine. Glomerulonephritis can also affect other organs apart from the kidney. It is important to be under the care of a nephrologist if you have any of the conditions classified as Glomerulonephritis.
Chronic pyelonephritis
Chronic pyelonephritis refers to damage caused by repeated urinary tract infections and inflammation in kidneys due to varied causes such as urinary reflux. It can lead to CKD and progressive kidney damage.
Factors that increase risk of kidney disease
Apart from these common causes of kidney disease, there are other factors that put you at increased risk of developing CKD and progression when diagnosed with CKD. As early-stage CKD rarely displays any symptoms, it is vital to identify the risk factors and monitor your health accordingly.
Obesity
A high body mass index (BMI) increases the metabolic requirement, which makes the kidneys work harder to filter out waste. The increase in kidney function poses a heightened risk to kidney damage when compounded over several years. Being overweight also increases the risk of developing diabetes and hypertension, two main causes of chronic kidney disease.
Smoking
Smoking affects all organs negatively, including the kidneys. Smoking is a common cause of damaged blood vessels that contributes to heart-related conditions. A damaged heart, blood vessels, or arteries, can decrease the blood flow to the kidneys and lead to kidney damage over time.
Aging
Though kidney failure can occur at any age, people over 60 are at a higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease. Therefore, regular screenings are recommended if you are over 60 years.
Genetics
Inherited genetic diseases that can lead to CKD range from common ones like polycystic kidney disease (PKD) to rare ones usually leading to glomerulonephritis. If you have a history of kidney disease in the family, it is imperative to keep your doctor informed.
Unregulated medications
Prolonged use of certain medications, such as over-the-counter Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs [DN1]), commonly known as pain medications and other unregulated remedies, can affect the kidneys in the long term. Always discuss your medications with your doctor to minimize this risk.