Can Kidney Disease be Cured?

Managing Kidney Disease: Can It Be Reversed?

Kidney disease often results from other conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, that impair the kidneys' functioning. There are various stages of kidney disease, ranging from acute to chronic. 

The cure and treatment of kidney disease generally depend on its type and stage. Read on to learn more about its types, diagnosis, and treatment options. 

What are the Different Types of Kidney Diseases? 

The most concerning type of kidney disease is chronic kidney disease (CKD). It is caused by high blood pressure and diabetes. In this condition, your kidneys fail to filter extra fluid from your blood and toxins in the manner they should. Though it cannot be cured, the treatment of CKD can reduce its progression. 

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), which represents kidney failure, if not addressed in time. Thus, kidney transplantation or dialysis is performed at this stage to maintain kidney function. 

Apart from these, kidney disease is also classified into the following types: 

1. Lupus Nephritis

When an individual’s immune system attacks the healthy cells in their body, it is called lupus. It is an autoimmune disease. However, when the immune system attacks one’s kidneys, it is called lupus nephritis. 

2. Polycystic Kidney Disease

It is a genetic disorder that causes the growth of fluid-filled sacs (cysts) in the kidneys. It affects the kidneys' ability to filter waste from an individual's blood. 

3. Glomerulonephritis

Glomeruli are tiny kidney filters that remove waste from the blood. When they become damaged, kidney function declines. Inflammation of the glomeruli, sometimes following a strep infection, can further impair their ability to filter waste effectively. 

4. Interstitial Nephritis

It is a condition in which an individual reacts adversely to a medicine, reducing their kidneys' capacity to filter toxins. In such cases, you must stop taking those medicines to improve the health of your kidneys. 

5. Pyelonephritis

It is a urinary tract infection that can cause scarring during the healing process. If such infections occur repeatedly, they may lead to lasting kidney damage and impaired kidney function. 

Can a Kidney Repair Itself? 

The answer depends on the type and severity of the kidney damage. However, they cannot fully repair on their own; treatments and medications are required to support the recovery process. 

Repair in Acute Kidney Failure 

In the case of acute kidney failure, if the underlying cause of the failure is treated promptly, the kidney function may return to normal after treatment. In acute kidney injury, supportive care and treatment of the underlying cause are primary; dialysis is required only in selected severe cases. 

However, if, due to any physical trauma, the kidney tissues are severely damaged, then it can turn into permanent kidney failure, and recovery is not possible. 

Repair in Chronic Kidney Failure 

In the case of chronic kidney failure, the damage is permanent, and the symptoms can only be managed through medications and lifestyle changes. The damage is classified into five stages, and with each progressing stage, the conditions worsen. 

If it’s the last stage of kidney damage, then a kidney transplant is the only option for the person to live longer. You can introduce healthy habits to prevent further kidney damage. Early detection and prompt medical attention can help in such a scenario. 

What are the Different Stages of End-Stage Renal Disease? 

Kidney disease is classified into 5 stages based on the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). It is a blood test that measures your kidneys' ability to filter waste. An eGFR above 90 may indicate normal kidney filtration; however, chronic kidney disease stage 1 is diagnosed only when this is accompanied by markers of kidney damage, such as proteinuria or structural abnormalities. 

• Stage 1: eGFR is above 90. The kidneys have mild damage but still function normally. 
• Stage 2: eGFR ranges from 60 to 89. Kidney damage is more significant than in stage 1, but function remains good. 
• Stage 3: eGFR falls between 30 and 59. This stage reflects moderate to severe loss of kidney function. 
• Stage 4: eGFR is between 15 and 29, indicating severe kidney function decline. 
• Stage 5: eGFR is below 15, meaning kidneys are close to or at complete failure. Symptoms usually begin to appear at this stage. 

How is Kidney Disease Diagnosed? 

Doctors may suggest the following tests to check the severity of your kidney disease: 

• Blood Tests: It is used to check the waste products in blood, such as creatinine and urea, to assess kidney function. 
• Urine Test: Doctors examine urine samples to detect any abnormalities that may indicate chronic kidney disease. It also provides clues to the cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD). 
• Imaging Tests: Physicians recommend ultrasound or other imaging tests to evaluate the size and composition of the kidneys. 
• Kidney Biopsy: In this process, a small sample of tissue is removed from the kidney with a thin needle while the patient is under local anaesthesia. The sample is examined in detail in a laboratory to determine the cause of the kidney issues. 

How to Check Kidney Function by Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR)? 

The estimated glomerular filtration rate is designed to measure the efficiency of kidney function. The eGFR can be calculated using the creatinine level in your bloodstream, age, gender, and several other factors. 

A higher eGFR number indicates better kidney function. An eGFR value lower than 60 is an indication of early-stage kidney disease. An eGFR below 15 indicates kidney failure (Stage 5 CKD). In most chronic cases the damage is irreversible, but reversibility depends on the underlying cause and whether an acute component is present. 

Often, people with acute kidney injury improve their eGFR number upon treatment of the acute causative injury, but people with chronic kidney injury must manage symptoms, habits, and medications. 

Can I Improve My Kidney Function? 

In the case of chronic kidney disease, early medical testing with prompt medical intervention can be highly beneficial; however, it is equally important to maintain healthy habits in your life to prevent further kidney damage. Here are some recommendations: 

1.  Manage Your Blood Pressure

According to a report by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDKD), high blood pressure was the second most common chronic kidney disorder. You can manage your blood pressure by eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. 

Remember to follow a low-sodium diet and take your medications as prescribed by your doctor on time. The blood pressure target range for patients with kidney disease is typically below 120/90 mmHg. 

2. Control Blood Sugar Levels

According to a report by NIDDKD, kidney patients who have diabetes are at a higher risk of facing severe complications and faster progression in kidney damage than people who don’t have diabetes. To maintain stable blood sugar levels, try to limit your intake of sugary drinks and high-carb foods. 

3. Have a Balanced Meal Plan

Diet is the most crucial aspect of managing kidney disease. You need to limit your intake of sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and protein-rich foods, as they put additional pressure on the kidneys. 

According to studies, a Mediterranean diet, whole-food, and plant-based diets are the most effective for kidney patients. Consult a dietitian to create a personalized meal plan tailored to your specific needs and stage of kidney damage.   

4. Engage in Physical Exercises

Follow an exercise routine and make it a habit to be physically active for at least 30 minutes daily. It will help you achieve balanced blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Additionally, it helps reduce weight and manage stress levels. 

5. Be Mindful About Medicines

For kidney patients, doctors typically prescribe medications to manage high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol. Angiotensin receptor blockers and ACE inhibitors (Angiotensin-converting Enzyme) help lower blood pressure levels, slowing the progression of kidney disease. 

However, it is essential to visit your doctor at regular intervals for checkups and to have any changes in medications prescribed according to your condition. 

6. Maintaina Healthy Weight 

Being obese can increase your risk of serious complications, as the excess weight puts extra strain on the damaged kidneys. Maintain a healthy weight by being consistent with your diet and exercise.    

7. Get Enough Rest

Getting enough sleep will help lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Try to sleep for at least 7 to 8 hours a day and maintain healthy sleep habits. 

8. Work on Stress Levels

Stress can spike your blood pressure, which can be fatal to your kidney health. Follow mindfulness and meditation techniques to manage stress levels. Physical activities can significantly help reduce stress levels. Try pursuing a hobby or maintaining a journal to organize your thoughts. 

9. Cut-down Smoking and Tobacco

Smoking and the consumption of tobacco can lead to serious complications like heart attack and stroke. They can also spike blood pressure levels, further damaging the kidney tissues. Quit smoking and tobacco to lead a healthy life. 

10. Visit your Doctor Regularly

Monitoring your kidney health to adjust your lifestyle choices and manage it well is essential. The frequency of medical follow-up depends on the stage of kidney disease and individual risk factors; early-stage CKD may require less frequent visits than advanced stages and should also adjust your medications and lifestyle according to your condition. 

What are the Treatment Procedures for Kidney Disease? 

The treatment method for kidney disease depends on the type (acute or chronic) and the stage of the disease. The main treatment options are as follows: 

Lifestyle Changes 

Changes in lifestyle are a crucial part of kidney treatment. These include a healthy diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight. 

Medications 

High blood pressure increases the risk of chronic kidney disease, and kidney disease can, in turn, further elevate blood pressure. Doctors often prescribe ACE inhibitors or ARBs to manage both conditions and reduce protein in urine. Additional medications may address anaemia and slow kidney disease progression, even in non-diabetic patients. 

Dialysis 

If kidneys can no longer function, dialysis is done to clean the blood of waste. Dialysis is of 2 types: hemodialysis (a machine-based process) and peritoneal dialysis (a process that utilizes the abdominal lining). 

Kidney Transplant 

For appropriate candidates with end-stage kidney disease, a kidney transplant provides the most hopeful prospect of a near-normal life. It does involve a compatible donor and an ongoing regimen of drugs to maintain organ function. 

Chronic kidney disease cannot currently be cured, but it can be managed with lifestyle changes, medications, dialysis, or transplantation. Acute kidney injury is often reversible if treated promptly. While experimental research is ongoing in regenerative and gene-based therapies, these approaches are not currently established treatments for kidney disease. 

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. Kidney disease varies widely in cause, severity, and progression, and the information provided here may not apply to all individuals. Always seek the advice of a qualified physician or nephrologist regarding any questions about kidney health, diagnosis, treatment options, medications, diet, or lifestyle changes. 

Also Read:

→ How to Stop Kidney Stone Pain Immediately

→ What are the Signs of Kidney Damage

→ What are the Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease

→ What Food is Good for a Kidney Patient