
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Detect Early, Act Early
By in Kidney Transplant
Mar 7, 2020
What Is Chronic Kidney Disease?
Chronic Kidney Disease is a long‑standing injury to the kidneys that persists three months or longer and gradually reduces their ability to filter blood. Over time, waste products accumulate, leading to fatigue, swelling, loss of appetite—and, eventually, the need for dialysis or transplantation if left unchecked.
Why CKD Is Rising in India
Diabetes: The Prime Culprit
India, often referred to as the “diabetes capital of the world,” is home to an estimated 73 million adults living with diabetes, a condition that significantly contributes to the growing burden of chronic kidney disease in the country. Uncontrolled blood sugar relentlessly damages the delicate filtration units (nephrons) inside each kidney.
Also Read: Post – Operative Care After Kidney Transplant
Hypertension: The Silent Strain
High blood pressure exerts constant stress on blood vessels, hastening kidney scarring. Because mild hypertension is often dismissed as “normal with age,” many cases go untreated.
CKD of Unknown Etiology (CKDu)
Roughly 16 percent of Indian CKD cases fall into this category. CKDu is common in hot, agricultural regions where exposure to heavy metals, agro‑chemicals, or chronic dehydration may play a role.
Lifestyle & Environmental Factors
Pain‑killer overuse, smoking, obesity, and airborne pollutants further accelerate kidney injury.
Also Read: Is Kidney Transplant Better Than Dialysis?
The Hidden Danger: CKD Has Few Early Symptoms
Most patients feel completely well until kidney function has fallen by 60–70 percent. When signs do appear, they are often vague—mild ankle swelling, facial puffiness, nausea, or unexplained fatigue—making early detection challenging.
Red Flags—Who Should Screen Regularly?
- People with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes
- Anyone with hypertension or a family history of kidney failure
- Individuals over 60 years
- Those with past episodes of kidney stones, recurrent urinary tract infections, or prolonged pain‑killer use
A simple blood creatinine test and urine protein check once a year can reveal trouble long before symptoms surface.
Also Read: State Of The Art Dialysis Centre In Faridabad
Proven Ways to Slow CKD Progression
Key Measure | Why It Matters | Practical Steps |
Control Blood Sugar | High glucose directly scars nephrons | Tight glycaemic targets (HbA1c < 7 %); annual eye & foot checks |
Maintain Ideal Blood Pressure | Each 10 mm Hg drop can delay dialysis by years | Aim < 130/80 mm Hg; ACE inhibitors/ARBs are kidney‑protective |
Adopt a Kidney‑Smart Diet | Reduces toxin build‑up & fluid overload | Moderate protein (0.8 g/kg), limit salt to < 5 g/day, avoid processed foods |
Stay Hydrated, Sensibly | Prevents sudden declines, & kidney stones | Aim to drink 2 to 2.5 liters of water per day |
Avoid Unproven “Miracle” Cures | Herbal or metallic preparations may contain nephro‑toxins | Verify every supplement with your nephrologist |
Quit Smoking & Reduce NSAIDs | Nicotine and pain‑killers speed kidney scarring | Use paracetamol for minor aches; seek medical guidance for chronic pain |
When CKD Advances: Dialysis & Transplant
- Planned (not emergency) dialysis access—a surgically created fistula—offers better outcomes and freedom to travel or work.
- Kidney transplantation is considered the most effective treatment for end-stage kidney disease, offering patients the potential for a significantly improved and near-normal quality of life. Live‑related donor results in India are excellent, yet cadaveric donation still lags behind; public awareness and consent conversations are crucial.
The Bottom Line
Chronic Kidney Disease may be silent, but it is not inevitable. Early screening, strict control of diabetes and blood pressure, and evidence‑based treatment can preserve kidney function for decades. Say no to unverified therapies and yes to regular follow‑up—because the right advice at the right time truly saves kidneys—and lives.
For personalised kidney‑care plans or second opinions, schedule a consultation with Dr. Sagar Gupta at Metro Hospitals.