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Kidneys can become so damaged from disease
that they can no longer perform their bodily duties. This can lead
to
- ACUTE KIDNEY FAILURE -- a short term loss of function, and
- END-STAGE RENAL DISEASE -- permanent, irreversible damage to both kidneys.
Fortunately, if one kidney is lost, or even if both or partly damaged, the remaining tissue is usually strong enough to do the job.
KIDNEY DISEASE CAN AFFECT , AT
The main types and causes of kidney and related diseases include:
- Pyelonephritis occurs when infections in other parts of the body can spread to the kidneys. Risk factors include
- diabetes
- obstructions of the urinary tract, and
- long-term use of catheters.
- Glomerulonephritis is an inflammation of blood vessels in the kidneys. It is usually caused by strep infections of the skin and throat.
- Kidney Stones are hard deposits formed in the kidneys, which can block drainage. They may be caused by excess calcium in the urine. Risk factors include
- dehydration,
- heavy use of alcohol,
- excess vitamin D, and
- family history of kidney stones.
- Nephrotic Syndrome is the result of excess protein in the urine, causing tissues to swell. This is most common in children. In adults, it may be a complication of diabetes, lupus or other illnesses.
- Cysts are fluid-filled sacs. Having some cysts is harmless, but having many cysts (polycystic kidney disease) may cause the kidney to become abnormally large. This condition is inherited.
- High Blood Pressure can damage small arteries in the kidneys over time. A vicious cycle begins -- damage to kidneys causes more serious high blood pressure, which damages the kidneys.
- Diabetes can also damage blood vessels in the kidneys. Diabetes is one of the leading causes of kidney problems.
Other possible causes of kidney disease include:
- exposure to heavy metals (such as lead and mercury) or toxic chemicals
- heavy use of pain relievers
- heavy use of alcohol or other drugs, including prescription medications
- preeclampsia (a complication of pregnancy)
Statistics About Kidney Disease
Millions of families see the effects of kidney and urinary tract
diseases every year. The effects are widespread in this country
and elsewhere. The following are some real-life statistics about
kidney diseases (from the NKF and UNOS):
U.S. Statistics
- 20,000,000 are at risk of developing chronic kidney/urinary tract disease
- 20,000,000 have kidney disease
- 370,000 have to take dialysis treatments or receive a transplant to stay alive
- 60,000 will die this year because of kidney and urinary illnesses
- 97,915 are currently awaiting life-saving organ transplants;
only half will receive them
Regional Statistics
- 1,896 in East TN have to take dialysis to stay alive
- 912 of these people are in Knoxville, 361 are in the Tri-cities area, 623 in Chattanooga
- 606 have received transplants at UT Medical Center -- 129 were living donors; 777 were cadaveric donors
- 46 pediatric transplants have been done at UT Medical Center
- 103 people in East TN are on UT Medical Center's waiting list for a kidney
Other Statistics
- 74,746 people in U.S. are currenlty on a list for a
kidney
- 1,098 people in Tennessee waiting for a kidney--this number is 5 times higher than any other organ
- 167,678 people in East TN are affected by kidney and urinary diseases
- 24,076 In 2001, there were this many lifesaving organ transplants performed in the U.S.
- 6,439 In 2001, people died waiting for a transplant
Here are some additional facts about kidney diseases:
- High blood pressure & diabetes are the leading causes of kidney diseases
- Over half of those placed on dialysis this year could have avoided it - if they had taken steps to control underlying conditions that cause kidney failure
- Many kidney diseases are preventable or treatable
- One out of three research nephrologists are trained by NKF funds
- The work of the NKF is funded entirely by public donations!
- NKF helps more Americans prevent, treat and cure kidney and urinary tract disease than any other voluntary health agency!
- The NKF has multifaceted programs in research, patient services, public education, professional education and organ donation
The 6 Warning Signs of Kidney and Urinary Tract Diseases
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Burning or difficulty during urination
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More frequent urination, particularly at night
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Passage of bloody-appearing urine
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Puffiness around the eyes, swelling of hands or feet, especially in children
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Pain in small of the back just below the ribs (not aggravated by movement)
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High blood pressure
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Steps You Can Take to Prevent Kidney Disease
- Drink plenty of fluids. This is especially important for preventing kidney stones. Drink 8 - 10 glasses of water per day.
- Prevent or treat diabetes and high blood pressure.
- Get enough exercise. (Talk to your physician before starting an exercise program.)
- Don't smoke!
- Maintain a proper weight.
- Maintain good control of your blood sugar if you have diabetes.
- Eat a well-balanced diet. Talk to your physician about any special dietary measures you should take.
- Treat wounds and infections. Follow your physician's instructions. Try to prevent infections by practicing good hygiene.
- Limit exposure to heavy metals and toxic chemicals. Also, avoid any unnecessary drug use.
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