Kidney disease
Also called: kidney failure, chronic kidney disease, CKD
Healthy kidneys function to remove extra water and wastes, help control blood pressure, keep body chemicals in balance, keep bones strong, tell your body to make red blood cells and help children grow normally. Kidney disease occurs when kidneys are no longer able to clean toxins and waste product from the blood and perform their functions to full capacity. This can happen all of a sudden or over time.
Diabetes is the number one cause of kidney disease, responsible for about 40% of all kidney failure. High blood pressure is the second cause, responsible for about 25%. Another form of kidney disease is glomerulonephritis, a general term for many types of kidney inflammation. Genetic diseases, autoimmune diseases, birth defects, and other problems can also cause kidney disease.
Related articles on DaVita.com
- Definition, Causes and Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease
- Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease
- Patient's Role in Chronic Kidney Disease Care
Videos on DaVita.com
External links
- Kidney Disease – National Kidney Foundation
- Kidney Disease Overview – National Kidney Disease Education Program