Types of Kidney Diseases and Causes

By Dr. Jatin Kothari in Nanavati Max Institute of Renal Sciences & Transplant , Kidney Transplant Unit

Apr 24 , 2023 | 3 min read

Introduction

Every organ has its own importance, and its proper functioning is crucial for your well-being. The same goes with kidneys; a pair of two plays an important role in the human body and at the same time performs various multiple and complex functions.

Functions of the Kidneys

Some of the kidney functions are listed below:

Keeps a balance of water and minerals in your blood
Removes waste from your blood after digestion, muscle activity, and exposure to chemicals or medications
Makes renin, which your body uses to help manage your blood pressure
Produces a chemical called erythropoietin, which prompts your body to make red blood cells

When your kidneys are damaged, these functions are impaired, resulting in health issues such as swelling in the ankles, nausea, weakness, poor sleep, and shortness of breath. If not treated at the right time, the situation may worsen. Best nephrologists in Mumbai, India often recommend immediate treatment to prevent further complications.

Also Read: Kidney Pain Vs Back Pain

What is Kidney Disease?

Kidneys are small organs responsible for filtering blood, removing toxins, and maintaining overall health. If you have kidney disease, it can impact other parts of the body as well.

Kidney diseases can be caused by:

Diabetes
High cholesterol levels
Certain injuries or illnesses
Genetic factors

Each type of kidney disease causes varying symptoms, from pain to issues with urination.

What Are the 5 Types of Kidney Disease?

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There are the following different types of kidney diseases and their causes:

1. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

CKD is a long-term condition that worsens over time and often requires treatment at specialized centers such as the best kidney transplant hospitals in Mumbai.

Main Causes:
➔ High blood pressure (damages the glomeruli in kidneys)
➔ Diabetes (damages blood vessels due to high blood sugar)

Over time, kidney function declines, potentially requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.

2. Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are formed when minerals and other substances in the blood crystallize into solid masses.

Main Causes:
➔ Dehydration
➔ Certain diets high in salt or protein

Passing stones during urination can be extremely painful, but they rarely cause permanent damage.

3. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Bacterial infections affecting any part of the urinary system, most commonly the bladder and urethra.

Main Causes:
➔ Poor hygiene
➔ Blockages in the urinary tract

If untreated, UTIs can spread to the kidneys and cause kidney failure.

4. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder causing the growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys.

Main Causes:
➔ Inherited genetic mutations

These cysts hinder kidney functions and can ultimately cause kidney failure.

5. Glomerulonephritis

Inflammation of the glomeruli, the small structures inside the kidneys that filter blood.

Main Causes:
➔ Infections
➔ Certain drugs
➔ Congenital abnormalities

5 Types of Kidney Disease

Symptoms of Kidney Diseases

Recognizing early signs can help with prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Early symptoms include:

Fatigue
Poor appetite
Muscle cramping
Puffiness around the eyes
Swollen feet and ankles
Trouble sleeping
Dry, scaly skin
Frequent nighttime urination

Progressive symptoms include:

Nausea
Vomiting
Anemia
Fluid retention
Hyperkalemia
Changes in urine output

Risk Factors for Developing Kidney Disease

Several conditions can raise the risk of developing kidney disease:

Diabetes
Obesity
High blood pressure
Family history
Older age

Diagnosis of Kidney Diseases

Doctors use various tests to diagnose kidney diseases:

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR): Measures how well kidneys are filtering.
Ultrasound or CT Scan: Detects tumors and structural issues.
Kidney Biopsy: Examines kidney tissue for abnormalities.
Urine Test: Checks for protein (albumin) or blood loss.
Blood Creatinine Test: Measures waste chemical levels to assess kidney function.

Treatment for Kidney Disease

Treatment varies based on the cause but may include:

Medications

ACE inhibitors (e.g., Ramipril)
ARBs (e.g., Irbesartan)
Cholesterol drugs (e.g., Simvastatin)
Medications for anemia, swelling, and electrolyte balance

Lifestyle and Diet Changes

Regular physical activity
Reduced salt intake
Blood sugar management for diabetics
Healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
Weight management

Dialysis

For severe cases:

Hemodialysis: Blood is filtered via a machine.
Peritoneal Dialysis: Blood is filtered using the lining of the abdomen.

Long-Term Outlook for Kidney Disease Patients

With early diagnosis, proper medication, and lifestyle adjustments, kidney disease can be managed effectively.

Options include:

Dialysis
Kidney transplant
Symptom management depending on disease severity

Ways to Prevent Kidney Disease

Here are steps to help prevent kidney disease:

Maintain a healthy weight
Exercise regularly
Eat a balanced diet
Control sodium intake
Avoid saturated and trans fats

Conclusion

Kidney diseases are common, and early intervention is key. Knowing the different types, recognizing symptoms, and seeking timely treatment improves outcomes. If you notice any symptoms, consult your doctor immediately for early diagnosis and effective management.