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How do we monitor chronic kidney disease?
There are several indicators we keep track of as we monitor your kidney disease:
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Anemia
Electrolyte imbalances
Malnutrition
High cholesterol
Mineral and bone disorder
What is anemia?
Anemia is a common issue associated with CKD. When your kidneys are damaged, they produce less of the hormone (erythropoietin) needed to signal red blood cell production by bones. Meaning, there aren’t enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry oxygen to the body’s organs or tissues. Symptoms of anemia include:
Feeling tired, fatigued, and weak
Feeling cold
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
To properly manage anemia, we may provide an erythropoietin stimulating agent to improve your hemoglobin levels. We may also provide iron (oral/IV), B12, and folic acid supplements.
What is mineral bone disorder?
Mineral bone disorder (MBD) occurs when hormone and mineral levels (i.e. calcium, phosphorus, parathyroid hormone) are imbalanced. With advancing CKD, kidneys no longer produce activated Vitamin D or maintain normal levels of calcium and phosphorus, which can lead to an overactive parathyroid gland.
Having high parathyroid hormone levels causes calcium to move from your bones into your blood, leaving your bones more weak, brittle and more likely to fracture or break. It can also contribute to cardiovascular disease.
To manage MBD, we keep a close eye on your phosphorus, calcium, Vitamin D, and parathyroid hormone levels. Depending on labs, some people may need to limit their dietary phosphorus intake, or take medications. To control parathyroid levels, you may need to take additional medications.
How does CKD Affect Potassium?
People with CKD may need to avoid or limit foods that are high in potassium. As CKD progresses, the kidneys have trouble removing excess potassium. High potassium levels can cause dangerous heart rhythms, muscle cramping, nausea, weakness, and numbness. You may be instructed to limit foods high in potassium and/or a sodium bicarbonate supplement may be necessary.
How does high cholesterol affect CKD?
High cholesterol not only causes heart disease, but it also clogs the renal arteries and cut off blood flow to kidneys. There are different kinds of cholesterol:
LDL Cholesterol: this is a bad cholesterol that can block arteries
HDL Cholesterol: this is a good cholesterol that helps prevent build up in your arteries
Triglyceride: this is another lipid and the most common form of stored fat.
The goal is to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease.
What can I do to help manage my CKD?
Depending on your labs, you may be instructed to follow the renal diet. The purpose of this diet is to keep levels of electrolytes, minerals, and fluid in your body balanced. On the renal diet, you’ll limit potassium intake, phosphorus intake, sodium intake (to help with blood pressure and swelling), saturated fat intake, and modify your protein intake.
We will provide guidance regarding which restrictions you may need.
You must be mindful about your diet and make sure you are getting the necessary nutrients to minimize symptoms and prevent additional complications. People with CKD are at substantial risk for malnutrition, causing adverse effects on body composition and function. Causes of malnutrition with CKD:
Decreased appetite
Cardiovascular diseaase
Low protein diet
Infections
Protein loss
Hospitalizations
Fatigue
Depression
In addition to maintaining a healthy diet, it’s very important to take your medications regularly. We recommend that you make a list of your medications, including the dose and how often you take them. Please bring this list to every medical appointment you have.
HOW CAN INTERMED CONSULTANTS HELP YOU THROUGH YOUR KIDNEY CARE?
InterMed Consultants has been providing renowned kidney care in the Minneapolis area, as well as greater Minnesota, since 1979. From new patient consultations to ongoing follow-up and education, we provide expert care for all of your kidney needs.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at (952) 920-2070.