The body has two bean-shaped organs called kidneys. Your kidneys act as blood purification centers, eliminating waste and maintaining water and mineral balance. Although kidney disease should not be common, it does occur. Various types of kidney diseases require specific treatments based on their unique characteristics.
This lesson introduces the different kidney diseases, explaining their causes, symptoms, treatment protocols, and prevention guidelines for maintaining kidney health.
Types of Kidney Diseases
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
In chronic kidney disease, kidney function steadily deteriorates over time, making it difficult to clean the blood properly.
Causes:
- Diabetes (high blood sugar)
- High blood pressure
- Infections
- Certain medications
Symptoms:
- Feeling very tired
- Swelling in hands and feet
- Trouble breathing
- Peeing less
Treatment:
- Eat healthy food (low in salt and sugar)
- Take medications for blood pressure and diabetes
- Regular checkups with a kidney doctor
- In severe cases, dialysis or kidney transplant
Acute Kidney Injury
Acute Kidney Injury develops quickly, within days. The kidneys suddenly stop functioning properly.
Causes:
- Dehydration (not drinking enough water)
- Infection
- Injury
- Certain medications
Symptoms:
- Peeing very little
- Swelling in legs and feet
- Confusion
- Chest pain
Treatment:
- Provide plenty of fluids
- Stop harmful medications
- Treat infections promptly
- Dialysis if necessary
Polycystic Kidney Disease
Polycystic Kidney Disease is usually inherited and causes the formation of multiple fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys.
Causes:
- Genetic (runs in families)
Symptoms:
- High blood pressure
- Pain in the back or sides
- Blood in urine
- Kidney infections
Treatment:
- Manage blood pressure
- Treat infections quickly
- Drink plenty of water
- Dialysis or transplant in severe cases
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are small, hard mineral deposits that form inside the kidneys and can cause significant pain.
Causes:
- Not drinking enough water
- Eating too much salt or sugar
- Family history
- Obesity
Symptoms:
- Severe pain in the back or side
- Blood in urine
- Frequent urge to pee
- Nausea or vomiting
Treatment:
- Drink lots of water
- Pain medications
- Shock wave therapy to break stones
- Surgery for larger stones
Glomerulonephritis
This disease damages the glomeruli, the tiny filters inside the kidneys.
Causes:
- Infections like strep throat
- Autoimmune diseases (body attacks itself)
- Unknown reasons
Symptoms:
- Blood in urine
- Swelling in the face, hands, or feet
- High blood pressure
Treatment:
- Medications to control blood pressure
- Treat infections
- Special medications to calm the immune system
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs occur when bacteria infect parts of the urinary system, including the kidneys.
Causes:
- Bacteria entering the body
- Not drinking enough water
- Poor hygiene
Symptoms:
- Burning sensation when peeing
- Frequent urination
- Fever
- Back pain
Treatment:
- Antibiotic medications
- Drink plenty of water
- Maintain good hygiene
Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer occurs when kidney cells grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor.
Causes:
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Family history
- High blood pressure
Symptoms:
- Blood in urine
- Persistent side pain
- Lump in the abdomen
- Unexplained weight loss
Treatment:
- Surgery to remove the tumor
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
Diabetic Nephropathy
This condition is caused by high blood sugar damaging the kidneys.
Causes:
- Uncontrolled diabetes
Symptoms:
- Swelling in ankles and feet
- Weight gain
- High blood pressure
- Foamy urine
Treatment:
- Control blood sugar
- Control blood pressure
- Follow a kidney-friendly diet
- Medications to protect kidney function
Hypertensive Nephropathy
Prolonged high blood pressure damages the blood vessels in the kidneys over the years.
Causes:
- Long-term high blood pressure
Symptoms:
- Swelling
- Headache
- Changes in peeing habits
Treatment:
- Medications to lower blood pressure
- Healthy diet (low in salt)
- Regular exercise
End-Stage Renal Disease
This is the final stage of chronic kidney disease where kidneys fail completely.
Causes:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Other kidney diseases
Symptoms:
- Extreme tiredness
- Trouble breathing
- Widespread swelling
- Loss of appetite
Treatment:
- Dialysis (blood cleansing machine)
- Kidney transplant
Preventive Tips for Kidney Health
Maintaining kidney health is simple with daily practices:
- Drink plenty of water every day.
- Eat a diet low in sodium and sugar.
- Stay physically active and exercise regularly.
- Avoid smoking.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly.
- People with diabetes should maintain good blood sugar control.
- Avoid taking excessive painkillers without consulting a doctor.
- Those at risk of kidney disease should schedule regular medical checkups.
Taking small, consistent actions daily protects your kidneys throughout your lifetime.
Consult Dr. Nisha Gaur
It is important to seek professional medical consultation for kidney-related conditions. In Jaipur, Dr. Nisha Gaur is a trusted kidney specialist (nephrologist) known for her compassionate care.
She has successfully helped many patients improve their kidney health and overall well-being. Those searching for the Best Nephrologist in Jaipur often turn to Dr. Nisha Gaur for expert advice and treatment.
More information about her services and appointment scheduling is available on her official Website. Dr. Gaur will help you choose effective treatments and preventive strategies for managing kidney diseases.
Conclusion
Recognizing the warning signs of kidney diseases and seeking timely treatment can help you enjoy a healthy, fulfilling life.
This lesson discussed the Types of Kidney Diseases, including CKD, kidney stones, infections, and kidney cancer.
Each condition has specific causes, symptoms, and treatments. Your kidneys are incredible organs that protect your life — they deserve your care.
By drinking enough water, eating nutritious foods, and seeking medical advice when needed, you can maintain strong kidney health.
Dr. Nisha Gaur and her team of experts are always ready to assist you in safeguarding your kidney function and ensuring a healthier future.
