We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Medicine

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Are the Different Treatments for Kidney Disease?

A. Pasbjerg
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 2,558
Share

The decision of what treatments for kidney disease to use for a specific patient depends mainly on the underlying cause of the issue and how far it has progressed. The disease may be the result of a variety of health problems like diabetes or high blood pressure, and proper management of those conditions can slow its progression. Most patients can benefit from following a specific diet designed to minimize damage to the kidneys and other parts of the body. Certain medications may be used to slow the disease, or to help with its side effects, while others should be avoided as they can make it worse. For those in whom the disease has progressed farther, dialysis or kidney transplant may be necessary.

One of the primary treatments for kidney disease is treating the condition that caused it in the first place. Many disorders, including diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol can all lead to renal disease. It is therefore critical for patients to follow all of their doctors' instructions for treating these diseases, such as taking medications or following certain dietary restrictions. This can help slow the damage being done to their kidneys.

Another of the treatments for kidney disease that can help many people is following a diet designed to reduce impact on the kidneys and minimize the effects of the disease on other parts of the body. Decreasing protein and fluid intake can both help slow damage from renal disease. Reducing salt intake can help lower high blood pressure, which is often responsible for progressive kidney damage. Potassium and phosphorus intake should also often be reduced, as the kidneys may be less able to filter them out, and high levels may negatively affect the heart and bones.

Taking certain drugs and avoiding others is also important during kidney disease treatment. Medications like ACE inhibitors to reduce blood pressure or insulin for diabetes are usually critical to slowing the progression of damage. Other drugs such as NSAIDs, magnesium hydroxide, and pseudoephedrine should not be taken as they may cause further harm. Some medications may be needed to manage the issue associated with the disease, including diuretics for fluid retention or sodium bicarbonate for acidosis. Smoking and drinking alcohol should also be avoided.

When damage has progressed too far, treatments for kidney disease may need to be more aggressive. If enough kidney function has been lost, regular dialysis may be needed to help filter waste from the blood. Excessive damage may make a transplant necessary.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
A. Pasbjerg
By A. Pasbjerg
Andrea Pasbjerg, a WiseGeek contributor, holds an MBA from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. Her business background helps her to create content that is both informative and practical, providing readers with valuable insights and strategies for success in the business world.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
A. Pasbjerg
A. Pasbjerg
Andrea Pasbjerg, a WiseGeek contributor, holds an MBA from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. Her business background helps her to create content that is both informative and practical, providing readers with valuable insights and strategies for success in the business world.
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-different-treatments-for-kidney-disease.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.