How to Delay the Onset of Dialysis

Although it’s scary to be diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD), if you find out in the early stages of the disease, there are steps you can take to prolong kidney function. If you work closely with your doctor, chances are good you can still enjoy a healthful quality of life with kidney disease.

Following good health practices, staying on the job and continuing to enjoy social activities are ways a person can feel in control of their condition. In addition to doing everything physically and medically possible to prolong kidney function, having a job with health insurance provides security that income and health benefits will be available.

Although there are many causes of CKD, there are certain recommendations that, when followed, can help a person delay kidney failure, which leads to dialysis or kidney transplant.

The two main causes of CKD in Americans are diabetes and high blood pressure. These diseases should be controlled — or prevented — to help prolong kidney function.

Diabetes and prolonging kidney function

Diabetics need to keep their blood glucose level in an acceptable range and take all physician-prescribed medicines. In addition, the hemoglobin A1c should be kept below 6.5 percent and kidney function tests should be performed at least once a year. Studies have shown that certain high blood pressure medicines can protect the kidneys of people with diabetes, even if they have normal blood pressure.

High blood pressure and prolonging kidney function

Patients with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, should take their blood pressure medicine as directed by their doctor. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommends that blood pressure remain under control at 125/75 or lower for those with kidney problems who are not diabetic, or 130/85 or lower for those with diabetes.

Other disease that lead to kidney damage

Other diseases that can damage kidneys include IgA nephropathy, glomerulonephritis and lupus. With these diseases the immune system overacts and inflammation occurs in the kidneys. To slow the disease process, a doctor may prescribe steroids and other medications.

CKD may also be brought on by infections, blockages and medicines that damage the kidneys. Infections can sometimes be cleared up with antibiotics. Blockages may be removed with surgery or other procedures. Certain medications, such as prescription and non-prescription painkillers, some antibiotics and contrast dye (used in medical testing) may have adverse effects on the kidneys. A patient needs to tell all their doctors that they have CKD and provide a list of all the medicines they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, to prevent further kidney damage.

Steps to prolong kidney function

Regardless of how a person develops CKD, there are actions an individual can take to prolong kidney function. Smoking causes faster progression of kidney disease, therefore, it’s recommended that those with kidney disease stop smoking. Naturally, eating a healthy diet and getting proper nutrition, losing excess weight and exercising are keys to better health that are completely in the patient's control. In fact, many type 2 diabetics can prevent diabetes by following those steps. People with high blood pressure are advised to limit sodium in their diet. Many doctors believe that avoiding too much protein and phosphorus in the diet may also slow the progression of kidney disease. Research continues on other foods and drugs to see their affect on delaying kidney failure, including: fish oil for IgA nephropathy; dietary intake of antioxidant or anti-inflammatory vitamins and foods; and prescribing the anti-fibrotic drug, pirfenidone, for the treatment of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS).

Remember, your kidney condition is unique. You can talk with your doctor and work with your health care team for personalized tips on how to prolong your kidney function. An open and frequent dialog will produce the best results. As well as discussing your medical condition, talk to your doctor about your feelings and ask for advice on how to talk with your family about CKD. Your health care team wants to help keep you healthy both physically and emotionally.

How to delay the onset of dialysis — at a glance