Did you know more than 30 million Americans are living with Chronic Kidney Disease? Also called as chronic renal disease, chronic kidney disease is a condition characterized by gradual loss of kidney function over time.
While kidney disease can develop at any age, seniors are more likely to develop the problem. This is because, as we age, our kidneys age too. According to a recent study, more than 50 percent of seniors above the age of 75 are believed to be suffering from chronic kidney disease. It was also found that people may not realize that they are at increased risk until it’s too late.
So, if your parents are above the age of 60, make sure to get them screened for kidney disease. If it is not possible for them to visit a physician, have the doctor come to them. Call Utah Doctors at Home to schedule in home health care services in the comfort of your home.
Common Causes of Chronic Kidney Disease
Anyone can suffer from Chronic Kidney Disease, but seniors are at a greater risk than young adults. Some common causes of chronic kidney disease are:
- A kidney infection
- A genetic disorder
- Heavy metal poisoning
- Rare genetic conditions such as Alport Syndrome
- Renal artery stenosis
- IgA glomerulonephritis
- Henoch-Schonlein purpura
Risk Factors Contributing to Chronic Kidney Disease in Seniors
Some of the risk factors that increase the chances of an older adult to suffer from kidney disease include:
- Diabetes mellitus
- Hypertension
- Cardiovascular disease
- NSAIDS and antibiotics
- Radiologic contrast dyes
- Herbal preparations
Chronic Kidney Disease Symptoms
This disease usually gets worse slowly and the symptoms may not appear until the kidneys are extensively damaged. You may be suffering from kidney disease if you notice one or more of the following symptoms:
- Muscle cramps
- Itching
- Not feeling hungry
- Nausea and vomiting
- Too much urine
- Swelling in feet and hands
- Trouble sleeping
- Breathlessness
Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease refers to the 5 stages of kidney damage, ranging from very mild damage in Stage 1 to complete kidney failure in Stage 5.
In the early stages of kidney disease (Stage 1 to stage 3) the kidneys are able to filter out waste from the blood. However, during Stage 4 and 5, the kidneys need to work harder to get rid of the waste or may stop working altogether.
Once your kidneys have failed, it is important to start dialysis or have a kidney transplant in order to survive.
Kidney Disease Facts
- Chronic kidney disease kills more people each year than prostate cancer
- A person above the age of 60 must be screened for kidney disease annually
- High blood pressure and diabetes are the most important risk factors for kidney disease
- 1 in every 7 American adults suffer from chronic kidney disease
A comprehensive assessment is important to identify the potential issue and treat the patient. Utah Doctors At Home offers in home health care services to Medicare age patients who are unable to travel to their physicians. Call 385-247-0050 to know more about admission details.
