Flushing out the reality of kidney disease

The International Society of Nephrology estimates that 11 out of 100 South Africans suffer from Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).

The World Health Organisation (WHO) further ranks kidney disease among the top 10 causes of mortality worldwide.

The most recent South African Renal Registry Annual Report found at least 8 866 patients received treatment for chronic dialysis or transplantation in 2021, an increase of 132 from the previous year.

Although its prevalence remains understudied locally, many cases of renal disease are associated with lifestyle diseases, such as hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes.

“The most important thing to understand about the kidney function is that their main function is to maintain homeostasis in the body,” said Michelle Dennis, renal operations manager at Mediclinic Southern Africa.

“Homeostasis means creating a balanced environment where substances like water and electrolytes are maintained at optimal levels to support bodily functions.

“Your kidneys further filter out waste generated by the metabolism, ensuring healthy blood pumps throughout the body.”

Dennis further explained any form of renal disease inhibits this process and can be debilitating and life-threatening.

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Causes of renal disease

Although the causes of kidney disease may vary from one geographical region to another, an increase has been noted in renal disease sufferers also living with hypertension and diabetes.

“These comorbidities are linked to lifestyle and dietary choices,” said Dennis.
“Early medical intervention along with lifestyle modifications can curb the progression of renal disease.”

She further warned against the use of traditional medicines and the overuse of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSID) medication.

“Throughout our clinics, we have noted an increase in cases of renal failure because of patients using traditional medicines prescribed by traditional healers,” she said.

“A study conducted by the National Kidney Foundation corroborated these findings, concluding that at least 35% of all cases of acute renal failure in Africa can be linked to the use of traditional remedies.

“Concerns raised throughout the medical community relate to the fact that traditional medicines are not regulated nor have their efficacy, product content and possible side effects been studied.”

“Continued use of NSID medicines has also been linked to cases of irreversible kidney damage.

Furthermore, Dennis warns that certain autoimmune disorders can potentially affect renal health.

“If you or a member of your direct family have been diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder, it is advised that the entire family undergo proactive testing and pre-screening as a preventative measure,” she said.

Treatment

She continues to explain that renal care encompasses much more than dialysis.

“Renal replacement therapy through dialysis is a medical procedure that filters and purifies the blood when the kidneys can no longer perform its function effectively,” said Dennis.

“Renal disease affects a range of systems and functions within the body, including its ability to maintain normal blood pressure and create the red blood cells important for managing anaemia.

“The kidneys also play a crucial role in managing the body’s parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels, which are vital for healthy bones, and the removal of excess phosphates which can lead to pruritus (itching skin).

“A renal team will investigate and consider each case, guiding the best course of treatment.”

In conclusion, Dennis says it is essential to prioritise regular blood pressure and glucose level testing, as these can impact kidney health significantly.

“Annual blood tests should include measures of urea, creatinine and electrolytes as they can provide valuable insights into your renal health.

“Maintaining a regimen of regular exercise and abstaining from smoking are vital steps in kidney disease prevention while those having gout should attempt to manage the condition effectively without the excessive use of NSAIDs, which can strain kidney function.”

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