Can the Kidneys Go Back to Normal?

Can Kidney Function Be Restored?

Kidney failure is diagnosed when the kidneys are unable to perform their basic function of filtering impurities and excess fluids from the body. If the kidneys don’t function properly, then it can lead to the buildup of toxins in the body, which can cause life-threatening complications.

End-stage kidney failure doesn’t have a cure; it can only be managed. However, acute kidney failure can be reversed if treated in time. Read on to learn more about the warning signs and how to reverse acute kidney failure.

What are The Initial Warning Signs of Kidney Failure?

According to the report of the National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive, and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), warning signs of kidney disorders include:

• Swelling around legs, ankles, and feet
• Extreme fatigue and loss of appetite
• Muscle cramps and weakness
• Frequent Headaches
• Little or no urine
• Skin rashes and itching
• Sleep disorders
• Pain and stiffness in joints
• Accumulation of fluids in joints
• Difficulty in concentration

Understanding Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR)

The estimated glomerular filtration rate is used to measure the efficiency of kidney function. It can be calculated by measuring your bloodstream's creatinine level and considering several other factors, such as age and gender. Alternatively, cystatin C levels are used in place of or in conjunction with creatinine levels.

A higher eGFR number indicates better kidney function. An eGFR value lower than 60 is an indication of early-stage kidney disease. If the eGFR value goes below 15, then it's an indication of kidney failure.

Complications of Kidney Failure 

While the kidneys' primary function is to remove toxins and excess fluids from the body, they also perform several other essential functions. Kidney failure can affect your health and pose a risk of life-threatening diseases.

Here are the complications you may face:

• High blood pressure or Hypertension
• Low red blood cell (RBC) count or anaemia
• Diseases related to bone
• Nervous disorders
• Accumulation of fluids in the lungs
• Fluctuations in electrolyte levels

Is Acute Kidney Injury Reversible? 

With timely treatment and proper care, acute kidney injury can be reversed. Treatments involve identifying and treating the underlying cause of the condition. After treatment, the eGFR levels may go up.

For proper care and management, the patient is kept in a hospital setting, and dialysis is performed until the underlying cause of the kidney failure is treated. Adequate follow-up and aftercare are required to prevent complications while the kidneys resolve.

Is Chronic Kidney Disease Reversible? 

Chronic kidney failure is diagnosed when your eGFR number goes below 15 and stays below that level for three months or more. It has no cure, but it can be managed with medications and lifestyle modifications. High blood pressure and diabetes are the primary causes of chronic kidney disease.

Therefore, maintaining both levels in check will help manage complications of chronic kidney failure. To prevent further kidney damage, people with chronic kidney disease should include the following lifestyle changes:

• Engage in regular physical exercise to maintain fitness, improve sleep disorders, and lower stress levels.
• Avoid smoking or consuming tobacco products to lower the risk of cardiac diseases, stroke, and other complications.
• Eat a balanced diet with lower salt and more plant-based foods.
• To avoid further complications, try to maintain blood sugar and blood pressure levels in the target ranges.
• If you are obese, try to reduce and maintain your weight consistently to improve your overall health.
• Take medicines prescribed by the doctor to prevent further kidney damage.  
• Go for regular check-ups and follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional to manage your symptoms effectively.

The kidneys may return to normal; however, this highly depends on the disease and its treatment. Living with kidney failure is worrisome and complicated, and it can be fatal as well. The treatment costs are substantial, which can be a significant financial burden if you are not covered by health insurance.

The Star Critical Illness Multipay Insurance Policy provides access to cashless treatment at over 14,000 network hospitals across India for critical illnesses affecting major organs, including the kidneys. It includes home lab sample pickups, e-pharmacy services, and post-hospitalization expenses.  

Safeguard your health and wallet by investing in the Star Critical Illness Multipay Insurance today.

Call us now for further details! 

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

→ What is Stage 1 Kidney Disease