Happy National Kidney Month! According to the National Kidney Foundation, “Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition characterized by a gradual loss of kidney function over time.” A gradual loss of kidney function can result in damaged kidneys, keeping you from truly staying healthy. When you are not healthy, you increase your risk of illnesses and ultimately kidney disease.
Diabetes and high blood pressure are both the main causes of CKD. While these are the main causes, CKD often goes undetected, as most symptoms are unnoticed. The National Kidney Foundation does list several CKD symptoms you may notice, from restlessness to trouble concentrating and muscle cramping.
Did you know?
- 30 million American adults have CKD and millions of others are at increased risk.
- Early detection can help prevent the progression of kidney disease to kidney failure.
- Heart disease is the major cause of death for all people with CKD.
- Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is the best estimate of kidney function.
- Hypertension causes CKD and CKD causes hypertension.
- High-risk groups include those with diabetes, hypertension and family history of kidney failure.
- African Americans, Hispanics, Pacific Islanders, American Indians, and seniors are at increased risk.
- Two simple tests can detect CKD: blood pressure, urine albumin and serum creatinine.
With two simple tests, you can easily detect CKD. Find a free screening and get started on the road to kidney health!
Source:
National Kidney Foundation. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.kidney.org.