Chronic Kidney Disease
Causes, Symptoms, and Innovative Stem Cell Treatments by GIOSTAR
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a serious health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes kidney function to decline over time. Finding CKD early and managing it is important. If left untreated, CKD can lead to kidney failure, which requires dialysis or a transplant to stay alive.
What is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
CKD occurs when the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and fluids from the blood, which leads to health complications such as high blood pressure, anaemia, bone disease, and heart conditions. CKD progresses through five stages, with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) being the most severe, where dialysis or kidney transplant becomes essential.
Kidney and its Functions
The kidney is a bean-shaped organ, about the size of a fist, located on either side of the spine, just below the ribcage in the lower back. Its reddish-brown colour and smooth outer surface distinguish it, and its placement is slightly asymmetrical, with the right kidney positioned slightly lower than the left to accommodate the liver.
- Filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood
- Balancing electrolytes
- Regulating blood pressure
- Stimulating red blood cell production
- Supporting bone health by maintaining calcium and phosphorus levels
Signs (Symptoms) of Chronic Kidney Disease
In the early stages, CKD symptoms are often mild or undetectable. As it progresses, common symptoms may include:
- Persistent fatigue
- Swelling in legs, ankles, or feet
- Nausea and vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty concentrating
- High blood pressure
- Changes in urination frequency or colour, with urine appearing dark or frothy
What Causes Chronic Kidney Disease?
CKD is often caused by other chronic conditions or factors such as:
- Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage kidney filtering units, leading to CKD.
- Hypertension: Long-term high blood pressure strains the kidneys.
- Genetic Factors: Conditions like polycystic kidney disease (PKD) are hereditary and can lead to CKD.
- Infections or Autoimmune Diseases: Diseases like lupus can cause inflammation that impairs kidney function.
- Medications: Chronic use of certain medications, like Painkillers, may damage the kidneys over time.
Can Chronic Kidney Disease Be Prevented?
While some causes, like genetics, are unpreventable, CKD progression can often be slowed with lifestyle modifications:
- Maintain a balanced diet low in sodium and processed foods
- Limit intake of certain foods high in phosphorus and potassium (such as processed meats, canned foods, and sodas)
- Exercise regularly to manage blood pressure and blood sugar levels
- Avoid long-term use of non-prescribed medications
Foods to Avoid for Kidney Health
- Processed Meats – High in sodium, which can raise blood pressure and strain kidneys.
- Canned Foods – Often contain high amounts of salt, a preservative that can be harmful to kidneys.
- Soda and Sugary Drinks – High sugar intake can lead to diabetes, which is a major risk factor for kidney disease.
- Avocados – Though nutritious, they are high in potassium, which can be hard for kidneys to filter in excess.
- Red Meat – Contains high levels of protein and can increase waste production in the body, straining the kidneys.
Foods for Healthy Kidneys
- Berries (Blueberries, Strawberries) – Rich in antioxidants, helping to protect kidney cells from damage.
- Cauliflower – Low in potassium and rich in fiber, it helps reduce kidney strain.
- Red Bell Peppers – High in vitamins C, B6, and folic acid, but low in potassium, making them kidney-friendly.
- Garlic – Contains anti-inflammatory properties and can enhance the flavor of food without adding sodium.
- Apples – Low in potassium and high in fibre, supporting kidney health and aiding in waste removal.
Can Damaged Kidneys Heal?
Kidneys have limited regenerative abilities. While early-stage CKD can be managed and progression slowed, advanced CKD often requires medical intervention. This is where regenerative approaches like stem cell therapy may offer promising outcomes by potentially enhancing the body’s natural repair mechanisms.
GIOSTAR’s Innovative Stem Cell Therapy for CKD
Stem cell therapy has emerged as a cutting-edge approach to CKD treatment. At GIOSTAR, stem cells are used to:
- Regenerate Damaged Kidney Tissues: Stem cells may replace damaged cells, potentially improving kidney function.
- Modulate the Immune Response: Stem cells can reduce inflammation, slowing further kidney damage.
- Improve Kidney Health: Stem cell therapy aims to improve kidney function, potentially delaying or reducing the need for dialysis or transplantation.
How GIOSTAR’s Approach is Unique
- Targeted and Personalized Treatments: GIOSTAR’s protocols are tailored to each patient, ensuring the most effective therapy.
- Non-Invasive and Safe: Stem cell therapy is a less invasive alternative to conventional treatments.
- Holistic Patient Support: Patients receive ongoing support, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) can be a serious health issue, but it can be managed effectively with early treatment and modern therapies. At GIOSTAR, we use stem cell therapy to offer hope to CKD patients. This treatment is personalized, safe, and promising. Stem cell therapy can improve kidney health and may slow the progression of CKD, representing a significant advance in kidney care.
For more information on how GIOSTAR can help manage Chronic Kidney Disease with advanced stem cell therapy, contact us today.