Names of Kidney Diseases

Kidneys are essential to the proper functioning of the body. As the kidneys regulate functions involving blood pressure and electrolytic balance, kidney disease can lead to chronic failure or a lowered ability to perform these essential functions. Learning more about kidney disease can help people to take preventative measures to keep their kidneys functioning properly, and it can let them know the warning signs of disease, so help is sought before a disorder has a chance to cause significant damage.

Chronic conditions that affect the kidneys

Chronic conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, have a large effect on the functioning and condition of the kidneys. Having one of these diseases increases the chance of developing kidney disease and can lead to kidney failure. Eventually, the kidneys lose their ability to filter blood and control fluids in the body, which is important for healthy functioning. This can lead to the need for dialysis, as kidney function goes down.

Polycystic kidney disease

A hereditary condition passed down through families, it causes kidneys to form painful cysts. The abdomen enlarges, blood may come out in urine and there is often excessive urination at night. Treatments involve treating any existent high blood pressure through medication, a reduced-salt diet and the use of diuretics. Treatment is given primarily to prevent complications from developing.

Two types of kidney disease are poly-cystic kidney disease and chronic kidney disease, which is caused by an already-existing condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Maintaining proper care of the body, especially the kidneys, prolongs life and prevents irreversible damage to the body.