How Can CKD Affect My Health?

CKD is related to many health problems that can be treated or even prevented.

·         CKD and heart disease are strongly linked. In fact, most people with CKD die of heart and blood vessel disease (heart attacks, strokes and heart failure) before they ever need dialysis.

            CKD and your heart

·         High blood pressure causes CKD, but CKD also causes high blood pressure. High blood pressure leads to heart and blood vessel disease, so controlling blood pressure is very important.

      Blood pressure and CKD

·         CKD causes anemia hen damaged kidneys don’t send out a hormone that tells your body to make red blood cells. Anemia can make you so tired that it’s hard to stay active and independent.

            Anemia and CKD

·         Calcium, phosphorus and Vitamin D in your body can get out of balance because your kidneys help control levels of these substances. If they are out of balance, you can get bone disease, and calcium can build up in your blood vessels, causing heart disease.

            Calcium, Phosphorus and Vitamin D

·         Potassium in your body can get out of balance.  Potassium is an electrolyte necessary for your body to function. Your kidneys help keep it at the right level. With CKD, potassium can get too high. This can be dangerous, because then your muscles, including your heart muscle, won’t work properly.

            Potassium and CKD

·         Malnutrition happens when CKD makes it hard for you to eat the way you should. CKD can affect your appetite, and you may have restrictions on what you can eat. Your doctor can refer you to a dietitian to help you stay well-nourished and healthy.

·         Uremia means that your CKD is very advanced.  You may have nausea and vomiting, swelling, trouble thinking clearly, extreme tiredness, shortness of breath, heart problems.  Without treatment, you are at risk of death.