If you have signs of kidney disease, particularly end-stage kidney disease, the experts at Southern Kidney Specialists, with locations throughout Middle Tennessee, are here for you. The skilled nephrology team offers treatment for this condition to maximize your quality of life and prevent life-threatening problems. Call the nearest office to schedule an evaluation, or use the online booking feature today.

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What is end-stage kidney disease?

End-stage kidney disease, also known as end-stage renal disease, is a condition that develops when chronic kidney disease progresses to an advanced stage, in which your kidneys no longer work effectively.

Your body uses the kidneys to filter excess fluid and waste products from your blood, allowing you to excrete these products through your urine. Without proper kidney function, fluid and waste build up in your body and cause medical problems.

To survive end-stage kidney disease, you require dialysis or a kidney transplant. The Southern Kidney Specialists team can assist you with these treatments.

What are the symptoms of end-stage kidney disease?

The hallmark symptoms of end-stage renal disease include:

  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Weakness
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Changes in urination patterns
  • Chest pain
  • High blood pressure
  • Shortness of breath
  • Swelling in your feet and ankles
  • Sleeping difficulty
  • Headaches
  • Decreased mental sharpness
  • Persistent itching
  • Muscle cramps
  • Muscle twitches
  • Metallic taste in your mouth

You might also experience heart disease, weak bones, fractures, sexual dysfunction, seizures, a weakened immune system, malnutrition, and anemia. Complications also can develop during pregnancy.

Because end-stage renal disease is a life-threatening problem, it’s important to see your doctor as soon as unusual symptoms appear.

What are the risk factors for end-stage renal disease?

The causes and risk factors for developing end-stage renal disease include:

  • Kidney disease
  • Type 2 or Type 2 diabetes
  • Glomerular diseases
  • High blood pressure
  • Polycystic kidney disease
  • Interstitial nephritis
  • Enlarged prostate
  • Kidney stones
  • Some cancers
  • Recurrent kidney infections
  • Older age
  • Tobacco use
  • Medicines that damage the kidneys

Maintaining healthy habits is the best way to reduce your risk of chronic kidney disease and end-stage kidney disease.

It’s important to maintain an ideal body weight, stay active, eat nutritious foods, limit sodium, and control your blood pressure. Take medicines exactly as directed by your specialist, and avoid smoking and other tobacco products. See your Southern Kidney Specialists doctor regularly.

How is end-stage kidney disease diagnosed?

To diagnose end-stage kidney disease, the Southern Kidney Specialists team reviews your medical history and symptoms, checks your vital signs, and completes a physical exam. They may order urine tests, blood tests, a kidney biopsy, or an ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan.

How is end-stage kidney disease treated?

Treatment for end-stage renal disease often includes making dietary changes, such as limiting protein, added salt, and even potassium. You might need peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis to artificially filter fluids and waste products from your body or a kidney transplant.

The Southern Kidney Specialists team tailors each treatment to your personalized needs and preferences.

If you have end-stage kidney disease or suspect you have this condition, call Southern Kidney Specialists or book an appointment online today.