Renal Disease

What is chronic kidney disease?

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a long-term condition where the kidneys do not work effectively. Our kidneys are designed to filter waste products from the blood before converting them into urine. In its early stages, CKD does not usually cause symptoms, but once it reaches an advanced stage diagnosis can be made though blood and urine tests.

Symptoms of advanced CKD include:

• Tiredness
• Swollen ankles, feet or hands (due to water retention)
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea
• Urine in the blood

Dietician treatment of kidney disease

There is no cure for chronic kidney disease. Although treatment can slow or halt the progression of the disease, and can prevent other serious conditions from developing, the main way to reduce the chances of CKD is to ensure any existing conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure are carefully managed. A dietitian can help outline important lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of CKD developing. These changes include creating healthier habits and a healthy diet.