People with other underlying conditions need to have these under control. People with diabetes will need to keep their blood glucose levels under control in order to prevent more rapid deterioration of the kidneys.
Anaemia
Low levels of haemoglobin in the red blood cells result in anaemia. Haemoglobin carries oxygen around the body.
Some people with chronic kidney disease will be given blood transfusions. Most people with be given iron supplements- iron is an important component in the production of red blood cells. Iron may be given in tablet form or as occasional intravenous injections.
If iron supplements are insufficient then injections of erythropoietin may be given. This is a hormone which is needed to boost red blood cells. Injections will be given either weekly or three times a week depending on the version that is used.
Phosphate balance
People with chronic kidney disease often have a build up of phosphate in the body because the kidneys are not able to filter it out. Phosphate and calcium makes up most of our bones.
Patients will be encouraged to limit the amount of phoshpate in their daily diet. Dieticians are able to give advice as to ways to lower phosphate intake. Red meat, dairy produce, eggs and fish are all high in phosphate.
If patients are unable to lower phosphate levels enough by dietary means then phosphate binders may be prescribed. These bind to phospate found in food in the stomach and prevent it from being absorbed by the body. Phosphate binders must be taken with meals.
Statins
It is now recommended that doctors should prescribe statins for those kidney patients with cardiovascular disease and that statins should be offered as a preventative measure to those with CKD who don't have heart problems.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is needed for healthy bones. Healthy kidneys activate the vitamin D obtained from the sun and food so that it can be useful. Vitamin D supplements may be given to ensure that this process is maintained.
High blood pressure
If left unchecked high blood pressure will continue to cause further damage to the kidneys. It is therefore really important that kidney patients take medication to lower blood pressure. The most common form of medication are ACE inhibitors which are recommended as the first choice for doctors treating people with damaged kidneys although other types of medication are available. Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) are usually prescribed if the patient does not respond to ACE inhibitors.
Fluid retention (oedema)
Kidney patients have problems getting rid of fluid because their kidneys are not working so well. This can lead to fluid retention in the body, often around the ankles or around the lungs. For this reason, people with chronic kidney disease are asked to limit their fluid intake. Some pateients may also be prescribed water tablets (diuretics) which should help in getting rid of excess fluid.
End-stage renal failure
Eventually most people with chronic kidney disease will need dialysis or a transplant. We deal with dialysis on a seperate page.
