Chronic Kidney Disease
Damage to your kidneys can cause serious problems. Chronic kidney disease develops over time and worsens gradually. It can eventually lead to end-stage kidney disease or kidney failure that may require dialysis or transplantation.
To help prevent extreme complications, our highly regarded nephrology specialists at Mount Sinai offer a comprehensive chronic kidney disease program. We provide diagnosis and treatment to support your kidney function. We identify your risks and make sure that you get appropriate kidney care. Our chronic kidney disease program uses the latest techniques for your best possible outcome. Doctors here work closely with each other to care for patients with this disease.
Risk Factors
It is possible to remain unaware that you have chronic kidney disease, especially during its early stages when you may not have obvious symptoms. In fact, according to the American Kidney Fund, 30 million people in the United States have chronic kidney disease and many do not know it. The danger of not knowing that you have the disease is that you do not seek treatment until it has advanced.
The main causes of chronic kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure. Chronic kidney disease can also be caused by kidney filtering disease (glomerulonephritis) and inherited kidney disorders like polycystic kidney disease.
If you have any of the following conditions, you may want to ask your physician to assess your risk for kidney disease and have your kidney function tested.
- Advanced age
- Diabetes or family history of diabetes
- Family history of kidney disease
- High blood pressure or a family history of high blood pressure
Testing for kidney disease is simple. It involves a thorough physical examination and blood and urine tests.
Signs and Symptoms
As chronic kidney disease progresses, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Fatigue
- Itchy skin
- Loss of appetite
- Swollen ankles
- Weakness
Since early detection gives you the best opportunity for treatment with a good outcome, as soon as you notice any of these symptoms, make an appointment to see a nephrologist.
Treatments We Offer
It is important that you and your family understand chronic kidney disease. Your nephrologist will explain your condition and help you set realistic expectations about your health. We encourage you to ask us about and keep track of your kidney health indicators, such as your creatinine, glomerular filtration rate, blood pressure, and urinary protein levels.
We will prescribe medications and let you know how to avoid or minimize further kidney damage. Awareness helps you make informed decisions to maintain your quality of life.
Mount Sinai is home to a comprehensive kidney disease treatment and research center. We offer a complete evaluation and state-of-the-art care for adults with all types and stages of chronic kidney disease.
Effects of Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease can cause complications such as an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, abnormal levels of minerals in the blood, the accumulation of fluids in the body, and anemia—an abnormally low red blood cell count. When detected and treated early, it can be possible to prevent your condition from becoming more serious. In some cases, treatment can reverse the disease.