Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is a condition characterized by damage to the kidneys which decreases the organ's ability to remove waste and fluids, regulate water, chemicals, and nutrients in the blood, remove drugs and toxins, release hormones, regulate blood pressure, create red blood cells, and promote strong bones. As the kidneys serve an important function in maintaining body health, kidney disease which worsens can cause waste levels to build up in the blood. Complications may arise from chronic kidney disease, including high blood pressure, anemia, weak bones, poor nutrition, and nerve damage. Kidney disease also increases the risk of heart and blood vessel diseases. Causes of kidney disease include diabetes, high blood pressure, and other health conditions. Kidney disease which is allowed to progress may lead to kidney failure, requiring a transplant or dialysis to maintain the body. Early detection and treatment is the key to the battle against kidney disease.