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The kidneys play important role in the body; they are responsible for various essential functions. They facilitate the elimination of waste through urine, regulate the body’s mineral balance, control water levels, and maintain the blood’s acidity and alkalinity. When renal dysfunction occurs, it leads to fluid retention, pulmonary edema, imbalances in mineral salts, anemia, vitamin deficiencies, and in severe cases, and the accumulation of toxins in the body.
Kidney disease can present acutely or chronically, with symptoms typically developing gradually. Consequently, many patients may not immediately recognize these abnormalities, allowing the condition to progress unnoticed. By the time it reaches an advanced stage, treatment becomes more challenging and complex. Thus, prioritizing kidney disease screening is paramount and should not be overlooked. Early detection of abnormalities not only facilitates simpler treatment but also preserves kidney function in the long term.
Kidney disease encompasses various conditions including glomerulonephritis (nephritis and nephrotic syndrome, kidney inflammation), kidney stones, acute kidney failure, and chronic kidney failure. Acute kidney failure often requires complex treatment and may not always result in complete recovery. Chronic kidney failure, especially when associated with underlying conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, poses significant challenges. Patients may remain asymptomatic in the early stages, leading to delayed treatment and decrease kidney function. Consequently, some individuals may eventually require dialysis due to the extent of kidney damage.
The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing among the Thai population. According to data from the Thai Kidney Association, there are approximately 20,000 new cases reported annually, with a consistent upward trend observed over the years. To address this growing concern, the association advocates for proactive screening among individuals aged 40 and above. This proactive approach aims to expedite the detection of patients or those at risk, facilitating prompt intervention and treatment. Ultimately, early detection and intervention are instrumental in mitigating the progression of CKD, thereby reducing morbidity and mortality rates.
The majority, exceeding 70%, of kidney disease cases are attributed to diabetes and high blood pressure.
In the early stages of kidney disease, patients often present with no symptoms. Regular screening for kidney disease enables early detection and intervention, facilitating prevention, risk reduction, and the potential slowing of kidney deterioration, especially among high-risk individuals as previously mentioned. Early-stage symptoms of kidney deterioration may include subtle indicators, progressing to more severe and evident symptoms in advanced stages.
Therefore, prioritizing kidney disease screening is something that should not be neglected, and procrastination should be avoided. Delaying until symptoms indicates significant kidney tissue damage, hindering the possibility of substantial recovery. Additionally, severe symptoms indicative of advanced stages necessitate ongoing and costly treatment. Moreover, disease screening not only evaluates kidney function but also identifies latent (potential) illnesses, facilitating early intervention and treatment before complications escalate.
As highlighted earlier, the kidney disease screening is particularly crucial for individuals aged 40 and above. This proactive approach facilitates early detection and prevention of severe kidney failure and other renal conditions. Screening for kidney disease typically involves:
Chronic kidney disease frequently remains asymptomatic initially, with symptoms not manifesting until the kidneys are severely damaged. Thus, regular kidney disease screening is important. Early detection of abnormalities allows for prompt intervention, preserving kidney function to the greatest extent possible. Ignoring warning signs until end-stage kidney failure necessitates kidney replacement therapy, such as transplant surgery or dialysis. The latter option entails prolonged waiting periods for a suitable donor kidney and regular sessions on an artificial kidney machine, significantly impacting quality of life, incurring high costs, and affecting the patient’s mental well-being.
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