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How is kidney disease treated?

Unfortunately, long-term (chronic) kidney disease often has no cure because of the irreversible damage to the kidneys. During its early stages,however, you may be able to make your kidneys last longer by taking certain steps. That is why detection of kidney disease in its early stages is important.

In most cases, treatment of kidney disease is focused on treating the underlying cause. This may minimize or delay the progression of kidney damage.

 If you have diabetes, it is essential to monitor your blood sugar closely to keep it under control. Your doctor can provide you with the latest in treatment.

 Blood pressure management. It is also important to monitor your blood pressure often. High blood pressure can damage small blood vessels in your kidneys.

To control high blood pressure, medicines called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blocker (ARBs) may be prescribed by your doctor. These types of blood pressure medicines have been found to protect the kidneys even more than other medications that lower blood pressure to similar levels. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) recommends that people with diabetes or reduced kidney function should keep their blood pressure below 130/80 mm Hg.

 Dietary and lifestyle changes.

In addition to taking your medications, following a proper diet is also important in the treatment of kidney disease. Your doctor may advise you to cut back on your protein, sodium, potassium, and fat intake. A registered dietitian may also help you make the necessary changes in your diet.

Stop smoking. Smoking increases your risk of kidney disease. It also contributes to deaths from stroke and heart attacks in people with chronic kidney disease. You should try your best to quit smoking.

 Anemia. The kidneys normally produce a hormone called EPO. It helps to stimulate production of red blood cells (RBCs)—the oxygen carrying cells. A diseased kidney, however, may not be able to make enough EPO leading to reduced number of RBCs—called anemia. If you’re anemic, you feel tired and look pale. To treat anemia, your doctor may inject you with a man-made EPO.

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