Health Articles

Knowledge

Screening for kidney disease before it’s too late

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.



How dangerous is kidney disease?


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.



Who should be screened for kidney disease?


  • Individuals aged 40 years and older.
  • Individuals with Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), also referred to as chronic non-communicable diseases, include:
  • Diabetes
  • Stroke and heart disease
  • Chronic pulmonary disease
  • Various cancers
  • High blood pressure
  • obesity

The majority, exceeding 70%, of kidney disease cases are attributed to diabetes and high blood pressure.


  • Individuals with lifestyle habits that predispose them to kidney disease, such as inadequate water intake, preference for spicy or salty foods, etc.
  • Those who misuse medications, dietary supplements, or herbal remedies, including self-prescription practices. Caution should be exercised, especially regarding over-the-counter pain relievers like NSAIDs, and consulting a healthcare professional is advised.
  • Individuals with concurrent medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders leading to kidney damage, kidney inflammation due to infections, kidney stones, gout, etc.


When is the appropriate time for kidney disease screening?


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.


  • Early signs/symptoms of kidney failure may include: nocturia (frequent urination at night), edema (swelling), and feelings of lethargy, accompanied by foamy or bloody urine.
  • Symptoms indicative of severe kidney impairment encompass: loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, pallor, anemia, purpura, and pruritus (itchy skin). Additionally, pulmonary edema may occur. In cases of excessive waste accumulation, cognitive dysfunction or seizures may occur.

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.



What factors are assessed in kidney screening tests?


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:


  • Blood tests are essential for assessing kidney function and detecting any underlying kidney diseases that may not present obvious symptoms including:
  • Kidney function level
  • Blood disorders
  • Blood sugar levels/accumulated sugar in the blood
  • Blood lipid levels
  • Urine analysis, specifically evaluating protein levels and the presence of red blood cells, serves as a crucial indicator of kidney function. Elevated protein levels or the presence of red blood cells in the urine may indicate abnormal kidney function.
  • Ultrasound examination of the urinary system provides valuable insights into the structural integrity and characteristics of the kidneys. This diagnostic test helps identify abnormalities within the urinary tract, including kidney tumors, stones, and injuries.


Preparation before kidney screening


  • Avoid from consuming food and beverages for 12 hours before the test.
  • Abstain from consuming alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours prior to the test.
  • Ultrasound examination of the urinary system is optimally conducted when urinary discomfort is at its peak, ensuring clear visualization of the bladder. Adequate fluid intake before the test may be necessary to ensure optimal bladder filling.
  • Patients on regular medication should consult their physician regarding the necessity of discontinuing these medications before the test.


Summary


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.


บทความที่เกี่ยวข้อง (10)

View All

Calcified Plaque in the Coronary Arteries: The Silent Killer!

Understanding the Causes of Blockage Many people believe that coronary artery disease develops only with age. However, coronary artery problems can begin much earlier in life. The risk starts in youth when fatty deposits (fatty streaks) begin to form in the coronary arteries. Over time, these deposits thicken, eventually leading to artery blockages. Dr. Anupong Parinayok, a cardiologist at Praram 9 Heart and Vascular Institute, explains that the problem begins when the inner lining of blood vessels becomes inflamed and dysfunctional, often due to chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, also play a significant role. These factors make the blood vessel walls more prone to inflammation, allowing oxidized LDL cholesterol to infiltrate and accumulate within them. Over time, this buildup forms plaques and calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. If these plaques rupture, they can trigger the formation of a blood clot, leading to an acute heart attack. At this stage, quick medical intervention is crucial to prevent life-threatening complications. Ideally, however, it is best to prevent reaching this stage.

Fear of the Sun? It Could Be Putting You at Risk for “Osteoporosis”

When people thinking of Thailand, many picture the sun, and just imaging it can make you want to grab an umbrella. But did you know that sunlight is more important to Thais than you might think? The gentle sunlight of the early morning and late afternoon not only warms the body but also helps produce vitamin D, which is crucial for strengthening bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Many people view sunlight as harmful, causing skin damage, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, leading them to overlook its benefits. Studies show that sunlight is essential for preventing osteoporosis and vitamin D deficiency. Exercising under soft sunlight in the morning allows the body to absorb vitamin D, which strengthens bones and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. In Thailand, 2.5-3% of the population of all genders and ages suffer from osteoporosis. Dr. Peeraphong Sawatdipong, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee and hip replacements at Praram 9 Hospital, revealed that vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in Thailand, affecting 30-40% of patients. The primary cause is an excessive fear of sunlight, leading to fragile bones and a higher risk of fractures, particularly among the elderly and postmenopausal women. In reality, morning sunlight, when absorbed through the skin, significantly helps the body produce vitamin D, which strengthens bones and reduces the risk of osteoporosis later in life.

Why Are Young, Active People Still at Risk for Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

Recently, we’ve often heard of athletes—seemingly healthy and young—suddenly passing away, raising concerns about the true cause of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in athletes and young adults. Is there a connection with exercise? And how can we handle such situations to prevent unforeseen tragedies for ourselves and our loved ones? The Real Causes of Sudden Cardiac Arrest Dr. Phonpitchaya Boondee, a cardiologist at the Praram 9 Cardiovascular Institute, explains that the incidence of sudden cardiac arrest tends to increase with age. Among younger people, it occurs at a rate of 1:100,000, which rises to 50:100,000 in middle-aged adults and up to 200:100,000 in those over 80 years old. Additionally, men are more at risk of coronary artery disease than women. In young individuals with no underlying conditions, the primary cause of sudden cardiac arrest are usually electrical disturbances of the heart and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. These are often genetic heart conditions that may present no prior symptoms, leaving individuals unaware they have heart disease.

Ovarian Cysts: A Hidden Threat Every Woman Should Know

These days, who would have thought that “ovarian cysts” would become a silent danger women need to be aware of? What’s even more concerning is that ovarian cysts often present no clear warning signs. Many women may be unaware that they have an ovarian cyst until they experience severe symptoms such as intense menstrual cramps, irregular periods, abdominal bloating, noticeable lumps in the pelvic area, or severe pain during intercourse. If left untreated, this condition can potentially be life-threatening. Unveiling the Secrets of Ovarian Cysts with a Specialist Professor Emeritus Dr. Sangchai Preutthipan, a specialist in reproductive medicine and laparoscopic surgery from Praram 9 Hospital, explains that the “ovaries” are small, thumb-sized organs responsible for producing eggs each month. With each ovulation, a fluid-filled sac forms around the egg. Sometimes, these sacs don’t dissolve as they should, leading to cyst formation. There are several types of ovarian cysts, including those caused by ovarian dysfunction, tumor-related cysts, endometriosis cysts (also known as chocolate cysts), cysts resembling other body tissues, and even cancerous cysts. Dr. Sangchai further notes that women of reproductive age up until menopause are at risk for ovarian cysts. Around 30-35% of women develop cysts due to ovarian dysfunction, while 20% develop tumor-related or chocolate cysts. Approximately 15% may have cysts that resemble other tissue types, and 1-5% are diagnosed with cancerous cysts. Each type of cyst carries different health risks.

Kidney Transplant Surgery Procedure, Recovery, and Complications to Monitor

Kidney transplantation is a surgical procedure that involves transplanting a kidney from a living donor or a donor who is brain-dead into a patient with chronic kidney failure, without removing the patient’s existing kidneys. The new kidney takes over the function of the damaged kidneys. The success rate of kidney transplantation is relatively high, and after the procedure, patients can experience a significant improvement in their quality of life. Therefore, kidney transplantation is considered the best treatment for chronic kidney failure. However, it is a major surgery with complex procedures. Before the operation, the donor kidney must be carefully matched to the recipient with chronic kidney failure, ensuring compatibility of blood and tissue between the donor and recipient to prevent rejection. Once a suitable kidney is found, the surgeon will perform the transplant on the patient. During and after the surgery, patients may face the risk of serious complications, so they must be closely monitored by a medical team. After the surgery, patients need to recover in the hospital to ensure that the new kidney is functioning properly and effectively.

Protect Yourself from Monkeypox: Know the Signs and Stay Safe

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global health emergency due to a severe outbreak of monkeypox across Africa, where more than 450 deaths have been reported. Previously, in 2022, the WHO declared a public health emergency due to an outbreak of Clade 2, which is known for its milder symptoms. Although Clade 2 spread to over 100 countries, including Europe and Asia, it resulted in more than 87,000 cases and 140 deaths, with a mortality rate of 4%. The outbreak was primarily concentrated among the LGBTQ+ community, which allowed for targeted vaccination efforts to contain it effectively. This time, however, the outbreak involves Clade 1, which is much more severe, with a mortality rate of up to 10%. According to the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), more than 14,500 monkeypox cases and over 450 deaths were reported between early 2024 and July, This represents a 160% increase in infections and a 19% increase in deaths compared to the same period in 2023.

How Long Can A Kidney Transplant Recipient Live After Surgery?

The kidneys are vital organs in the body, making kidney disease a significant issue that affects both the patient’s quality of life and the lives of those who care for them. Today, there has been an increase in kidney disease cases compared to the past, with a growing number of patients reaching end-stage chronic kidney failure and requiring urgent treatment. Kidney transplantation is considered the best treatment option for restoring the patient’s quality of life.

Thyroid Disease Symptoms! Which type of thyroid disease do these symptoms indicate?

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ located at the front of the neck. Its main function is to produce thyroid hormones, which are crucial for the body’s metabolic system. These hormones also contribute to growth and regulate heart rate, body temperature, and other hormonal functions. When the thyroid gland malfunctions, it can affect the levels of thyroid hormones in the body, leading to conditions like hyperthyroidism (excess thyroid hormone), hypothyroidism (insufficient thyroid hormone), or other thyroid disorders. Patients with these conditions may exhibit different symptoms. This article will explain the symptoms of various types of thyroid diseases to help you recognize them early. If you suspect any issues, it’s important to consult a doctor for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Cardiac Arrhythmia : A warning sign that may lead to heart failure

The heart is an essential organ that works tirelessly all the time. On average, the heart beats around 100,000 times a day. Nowadays, heart disease is becoming increasingly common and close to us. We often hear news of people we know, or those close to us, passing away due to heart disease, or instances of athletes collapsing during competitions caused by irregular heartbeats. Cardiac arrhythmia is considered a type of heart disease that is frequently mentioned today. An irregular heartbeat causes abnormal heart contractions. If severe and left untreated, it can lead to heart failure. Therefore, taking care of heart health is extremely important and should not be neglected.

Gynecologic Laparoscopic Surgery: A Great Option for Women

When it comes to women’s surgeries, besides the anxiety about the results, the pain from the surgery and the scars afterward are other significant concerns. Nowadays, medical advancements have provided women with treatment options that yield good results while leaving only small scars. The pain from the surgical wound is minimal, recovery is quick, and there are no severe complications. One such option is gynecologic laparoscopic surgery.

Copyright © 2024 All Rights Reserved | Praram 9 Hospital