Kidney Disease and Nephrology

Nephrology is the branch of medical science that deals with the functioning of the kidneys. Kidneys are bean-shaped organs present as a pair in the abdominal region. They are the organs that filter out impurities from the human body. Moreover, they also maintain the osmotic and electrolyte concentration of the body.

However, most of this work is usually done through one kidney while the other only performs 1% of the total work. Consulting doctors in nephrology are often referred to as nephrologists. They are responsible for treating infections and disorders of kidneys.

Types of Kidney Diseases

The diseases or disorders which alter the normal functioning of kidneys can be referred to as kidney diseases. Many diseases can affect a healthy kidney. Some of the most common kidney disorders are:

Kidney Stones: Kidneys are responsible for maintaining the right concentration of salt in the body. They filter excess salt and minerals. Sometimes, these salts and minerals get accumulated inside the kidneys in the form of stones. They are then called kidney stones. This is a very common kidney disorder that affects a large number of people every year.

Chronic Kidney Disease: It is the most common disorder of the kidney, affecting many people worldwide. In this disease, the kidney fails to purify the blood.

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

• Severe pain in the affected area
• Sudden fluctuation of pain
• Frequent urination
• Change in colour of urine
• Painful urination
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue
• Sleep apnea
• Decreased mental ability
• Frequent urination
• Muscle cramps
• High blood pressure

Causes

A poor diet with an excess of sugar and lack of exercise can be one of the main causes of kidney stones. Moreover, it can also be due to lack of water, due to which kidneys fail to perform their function of removing impurities. The main cause of chronic kidney disease is high blood pressure and diabetes.

When to See a Doctor

You must Consult the doctors in case you face any such symptoms.

Request an appointment at RJN Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Gwalior

Call: 18605002244

Treatment of Kidney Stones

Treatment of kidney stones varies depending on the size of the stone. In the case of small stones, the doctors recommend drugs that help in the dissolution of the stones and pass-out through urine. Moreover, the patients should drink plenty of water to help the stones get out of the body. In the case of bigger stones, a special treatment called lithotripsy is done, where shock waves are used to break the stones into smaller pieces, so that they can pass out with urine.

Treatment Chronic Kidney Disease

The diagnosis of the disease is through blood or urine tests. Chronic kidney diseases have no complete cure. However, doctors will prescribe medications to slow down its effect. They may treat the root cause of the disease, for instance, treating high BP and maintaining sugar levels. In case of complete damage to the kidneys, kidney transplantation is recommended. Before surgery, the patient is kept on dialysis. Dialysis performs the role of a kidney, and purifies the blood artificially.

Conclusion

Kidneys are vital organs of the human body and their care is a must. A healthy diet with an adequate amount of water plays a major role in maintaining a healthy kidney. If kidney disorders are diagnosed and treated at an early stage, they can be cured. So, in case of any such symptoms, always visit your doctor.