September 15, 2025

Our kidneys perform several vital functions on a daily basis. From filtering blood and removing waste, to balancing fluids in our body, they ensure everything runs smoothly to keep us healthy and active. Studies show that when the kidneys are affected or damaged, it can affect almost every other organ in the body. Today, a large number of people suffer from kidney diseases, either due to their eating and drinking habits, lifestyle factors, or other illnesses that lead to the development of the disease. In the blog below, we shall throw light on some of the top causes of kidney disease, its symptoms, and treatment options. Let’s get started.  

​What is Kidney Disease

As you may already know, the primary function of the kidney is to filter blood, get rid of waste, and manage fluids in the body. When it fails to perform these functions or loses its ability to do so, excess waste and fluid start to accumulate in the body. This condition is known as kidney disease. As it is a slow, gradual, and progressive condition, it is also commonly known as Chronic Kidney Disease or CKD.

​Unlike certain diseases, the kidneys lose their ability gradually, due to which the name “chronic” has been given to the condition. To date, there is no cure for CKD; however, there are medications and treatments that help manage it. In certain cases, CKD also leads to kidney failure. Therefore, managing it at an early stage through proper care and treatment is really important.

​Causes of Kidney Disease

Kidney diseases are highly common and can affect anybody at any age; however, there are some factors that put you at a higher risk of developing the disease as compared to others.

​1. Diabetes (Type 1 & 2)

Diabetes, both type 1 and type 2, is considered to be one of the major causes of kidney disease. When the blood sugar levels in the body rise, it can cause immense damage to the kidneys’ blood vessels. Once these vessels get damaged or weakened, it impacts the kidney’s ability to filter blood and perform all its other necessary functions, giving rise to kidney disease.

​2. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

As mentioned earlier, the blood vessels present in the kidneys are tiny and delicate. When blood flows through these vessels at high pressure for a long time, it can cause them to become thick or damaged over time. This, in turn, makes it difficult for the kidneys to filter blood and other excess fluid effectively. Research shows that, if not managed appropriately, high blood pressure can even cause kidney failure. Therefore, taking proper care and ensuring your blood pressure is at a normal level is crucial for kidney health.

​3. Glomerulonephritis

The kidneys consist of small filtering units known as the glomeruli. In Glomerulonephritis, these units become inflamed, affecting the kidney’s ability to perform the necessary filtration. This condition can occur suddenly or gradually over years. Factors like infections, underlying health conditions, etc., play a huge role in its development. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent severe kidney damage.

​4. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

PKD is a genetic condition that causes tiny fluid-filled sacs or cysts to grow in your kidneys, affecting their function. These cysts grow over time, damaging the kidneys and restricting them from performing normal functions. Furthermore, as there is no cure for the condition, doctors may recommend medications and other treatment options to slow its progression.

​5. Kidney Infections (Pyelonephritis)

Pyelonephritis is a bacterial infection. It starts from the urinary tract, making its way up to the kidneys. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the infection and reduce its chances of causing long-term kidney issues.

​6. Obstruction of the Urinary Tract

Obstructions of the urinary tract include kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, and tumours. These blockages restrict normal urine flow, causing unwanted pressure to build up in the kidneys. Over time, this could damage the filtering units, leading to kidney disease.

7. Prolonged Use of Certain Medications

Certain medications, if taken for long periods of time, can damage the kidneys. Therefore, following the doctor’s prescriptions and the amount of time for which they have been given is really important.

Symptoms of Kidney Disease

Kidney disease can range from a mild starting stage to an end-stage severe condition. While there aren’t many visible signs at the early stage, as the disease progresses, you may experience symptoms like:

• Nausea
• Tiredness
• Puffy eyes
• A need to urinate more often
• Foamy pee
• High blood pressure
• Swelling in your hands and feet
• Sleep issues

Kidney Disease Treatment Options

Kidney disease treatment revolves around managing the problem causing the disease, slowing down its progression, lowering the risk of heart-related diseases, and addressing other complications that may have developed due to the kidney disease. Treatment options range from medications, lifestyle and dietary changes, to dialysis, transplants and other severe medical measures.

• Medications: Depending on the reason that led to your kidney disease, your healthcare provider may provide medications to control its progression and reduce the symptoms.
• Dietary Changes: Following a healthy diet is really crucial to managing kidney problems. Doctors suggest limiting sodium intake to lessen the pressure on your kidneys. Frequent or small portions of meals are also recommended.
• Dialysis: It is a procedure through which the body’s filtration process is performed artificially, as the kidneys fail to perform it naturally. Depending on the severity, doctors may recommend dialysis twice or thrice a week.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Lifestyle changes such as limiting smoking, exercising regularly, maintaining an ideal weight, etc., are necessary.
• Kidney Transplant: In cases of advanced kidney disease, a kidney transplant could be a suitable treatment option. However, finding a matching kidney is extremely important for a kidney transplant. Upon a successful transplant, patients are no longer required to undergo dialysis.
• Treating Underlying Conditions: If your kidney issue is caused by underlying conditions like diabetes, glomerulonephritis, or other infections, treating them is crucial to reducing the damage they cause to the kidneys.

​Conclusion

Kidney disease is very common among people of all age groups. Therefore, it is important to be aware of its causes, symptoms, and take appropriate measures to prevent it. Kidneys are one of the most essential organs in the human body, and ensuring their smooth functioning is crucial for overall health and well-being. Practice healthy living through daily exercises, consumption of sufficient water, and a nutrient-rich diet to care better for your kidneys today.

​FAQs

1. Are there any early signs  and symptoms of kidney disease?

Kidney disease develops slowly and gradually. It often does not display any visible signs during the starting stages. However, minor changes such as swelling in the hands and the feet, frequent urination, tiredness, etc., can be symptoms of kidney disease.

2. How is kidney disease diagnosed?

A series of blood and other diagnostic tests is used to identify kidney disease.

3. What foods should be avoided in kidney disease?

Highly processed foods or foods with high levels of sodium or potassium must be avoided in kidney disease.