Early diagnosis of chronic kidney disease can save lives

Kidney health is a crucial component of human well-being, but it is often overlooked until significant problems manifest. One of the most common is the so-called ‘kidney disease’ (whether acute or chronic), which can lead to kidney failure.

The condition in its severe form affects more than ten million Brazilians, according to the Ministry of Health (MS). The good news is that, with the correct diagnosis and appropriate medical intervention, the disease’s effects can be reduced. Symptoms such as changes in urine, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, loss of appetite, anemia and changes in blood pressure may indicate kidney problems. Early detection is key to preventing the progression of chronic kidney disease.

The topic gains special attention on the second Thursday of March, when World Kidney Day is celebrated. The date was created by the International Society of Nephrology and seeks to promote awareness about the growing presence of kidney diseases around the world. The human body organ is responsible, for example, for cleaning all impurities and toxins from our body, regulating water and maintaining the balance of mineral substances.

Although they have similarities, acute kidney disease (ARD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) have important differences in cause, duration and progression. The first is characterized by a sudden and reversible reduction in renal function, caused by factors such as ischemia, obstruction or nephrotoxic medications. The second is a progressive and irreversible loss of kidney function, which can lead to end-stage renal failure and the need for dialysis or transplantation.

Diagnosis

The biochemist and scientific technical coordinator at Sabin Diagnóstico e Saúde, Luciana Figueira, explains that urea and creatinine measurement tests are the main means of screening for kidney disease. “It is from these blood tests that the nephrologist can discover any possible kidney disease, because when the kidneys do not function properly, there is an accumulation of these substances in the blood and this appears in the results”, she says.

According to the professional, exams should be carried out at least annually or at the doctor’s discretion. This is because, depending on the patient, it may be necessary to perform it more than once in the same period. Even patients affected by chronic kidney disease may need tests to assess the progress of the condition.

Another option highly recommended by doctors is the urine test, which identifies urinary tract infections, kidney diseases and systemic conditions. “When changes are identified, other complementary diagnostic tests may be requested in order to discover the origin of the problem”, explains the biochemist.

According to the Ministry of Health, the slow progression of the disease allows the body to adapt to the decrease in kidney function. Therefore, symptoms of the condition may appear late, when the kidney has already lost up to 90% of its function. Hence the importance of checking the health of your kidneys as often as your doctor recommends.

The main signs of chronic kidney disease are: increased volume and change in color of urine; fatigue; difficulty concentrating; loss of appetite; blood and foam in the urine; discomfort when urinating, anemia and changes in blood pressure.

Prevention

Preventing chronic kidney disease involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, low in sodium and sugar, and rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels, in addition to maintaining a healthy weight, are also essential.

Furthermore, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and not smoking are important measures. It’s also crucial to stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and have routine tests to monitor kidney function, especially if you have risk factors such as a family history of kidney disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure.

*With information from consultancy

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