Stay in the Know: Chronic Kidney Disease

Understanding how your kidneys function is crucial for maintaining a good health and proper bodily function.

Your kidneys work quietly all day, filtering waste from your blood, balancing fluids, and helping control blood pressure. Chronic kidney disease, often called CKD, happens when the kidneys slowly lose some of that ability over time. Many people have it and do not know.

What causes kidney disease

The two most common causes are diabetes and high blood pressure. Both can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys. Heart disease, a family history of kidney problems, and older age also raise the risk.

Early CKD usually has no symptoms. That is why regular blood and urine tests matter, especially if you have diabetes or high blood pressure. Ask your doctor whether you should be checked.

Signs to watch for

As kidney function declines, some people notice:

• Swelling in the feet, ankles or hands.
• Feeling tired or having trouble concentrating.
• Changes in how often you urinate.
• Dry, itchy skin.
• Poor appetite or nausea.

These signs can have many causes, so talk with your doctor if you notice them.

Medicines and your kidneys

This is where your pharmacist can really help. The kidneys clear many medicines from the body. When they slow down, some medicines may need a different dose, and some may be best avoided. Certain over the counter pain relievers can be hard on the kidneys when used often. Never change a prescribed dose on your own, but do ask us to review your list, including supplements and herbal products.

Protecting your kidneys often starts with knowing what is in your medicine cabinet.

Steps that support kidney health

Keep your blood pressure and blood sugar in the ranges your doctor recommends. Take your medicines as prescribed. Limit salt and processed foods. Stay active, do not smoke, and drink water as your doctor advises. If you have CKD, your care team may suggest specific diet changes.

At CarePoint, we offer medication reviews where we sit down with you, look at everything you take, and share any concerns with your prescriber. It is one of the most useful things we do.

If you have kidney disease, it helps to keep a simple notebook or phone note with your latest lab results, blood pressure readings and current medicines. Bring it to your appointments and to the pharmacy. When everyone on your care team can see the same information, it is easier to spot changes early and make good decisions together. Ask questions whenever something is unclear.

Have questions about anything in this article? Call us at 661.480.2373 and talk with a CarePoint pharmacist. We are happy to help, and there is never a charge for a conversation.

This article is general education, not medical advice.