3 Surprising Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease
Holyoke Medical Center
Holyoke Medical Center is a mid-sized community hospital located in Holyoke, Massachusetts.
According to the National Kidney Foundation an estimated?37 million people in the U.S. have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). More alarming is the fact that 90% of those with CKD don't know it. Since setting up the medical practice Kidney Associates at Holyoke Medical Center , board certified nephrologists?Shaji Daniel, MD, FACP, FASN, and Balaji Padmanaban Athreya MD FASN FASH , have worked tirelessly to not only treat patients but educate the wider community about the?early?signs of kidney disease, how to manage and even reverse its progression to lead healthier lives. Early intervention is critical. Dr. Daniel and Dr. Athreya share three warning signs of CKD that might surprise you.?
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1. Hypertension or high blood pressure.?When an individual is diagnosed with hypertension, many assume a referral to a cardiologist should follow. Unless there is an underlying cardiac issue, patients with high blood pressure or hypertension should see a nephrologist. That's because high blood pressure can damage arteries and organs throughout the body, including the kidneys. Left untreated blood vessels in the kidneys can further deteriorate, which leads to a worsening of kidney disease over time.?
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2. Decrease in appetite. What does a lack of appetite have to do with CKD? Plenty! When kidney function is impaired, it can trigger a buildup of toxins that make a person feel full or diminish your desire for food.?
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3. Pain in the small of your back.?The kidneys are located on either side of your spine in your lower back, and undetected CKD can cause pain in the area. If the pain is consistent or gets worse over time, don't assume it's aging or wear and tear on your body. Back pain may also indicate an infection or blockage of the kidneys, which can lead to kidney damage.?
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Understand that if you have kidney disease, you may not know it until symptoms worsen and the disease has progressed. Take control of your kidney health by talking to your general practitioner or get tested at Holyoke Medical Center .