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How prevalent is kidney disease today?
In the United States, one in nine adults, or 11 percent of the adult population, has chronic kidney disease although they may or may not know it. Today, 300,000 people undergo dialysis for kidney failure. By 2010, that number is expected to be 600,000.
Is home dialysis, either peritoneal or hemodialysis, an option for me?
Home dialysis candidates are very independent and motivated toward self-care. With that as a basis, home dialysis is an option as long as the patient's medical conditions, family support and physical home environment are appropriate for this therapy.
What are the symptoms of kidney disease?
Kidney disease may be defined by either having protein in the urine which is abnormal or having a decrease in kidney function.
How is kidney disease treated?
For people with diabetes and hypertension, treatment is essentially preventive. Controlling blood sugar and blood pressure are vital, and protein restriction in the diet is also a good preventive measure. Patients with kidney failure, or end-stage renal failure, often must undergo dialysis or have a kidney transplant.
What can I do to ward off kidney disease?
In short, adopt a healthy lifestyle. All the things we do for ourselves in terms of improving health - exercise, maintaining proper body weight, eating well - are excellent protection against diabetes and hypertension, the primary causes of kidney disease.
Is home hemodialysis an option for me?
It might be. If home hemodialysis is something that would interest you, talk with your physician.
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