Comprehensive Guide to Kidney Disease
Kidney Disease FAQ
What is kidney disease?
Kidney disease refers to any condition that damages the kidneys, the two bean-shaped organs located on each side of the spine that filter blood, produce urine, and regulate fluid and acid levels in the body. Kidney disease can be acute, meaning fast developing and severe, or chronic, meaning persistent and progressive.
What is chronic kidney disease?
‘Chronic kidney disease’ is where there is a loss of healthy kidney function for more than three months. Chronic kidney disease is the most common form of kidney disease. There are five recognised stages. Stage 1 is the mildest form and often hard to detect with no obvious signs. It gradually progresses through to kidney failure in later stages.
Is kidney disease a life threatening condition?
Everyone experiences kidney disease differently and there is no one-size-fits-all to treatment. Even with the best management, kidney disease can sometimes lead to kidney failure, which can be life threatening. Patients with kidney failure require dialysis or a kidney transplant to stay alive. Your eGFR result will be less than 15.
Where can I find information about chronic kidney disease?
For more information about chronic kidney disease and kidney health in general, visit the Kidney Health Australia website, or call their Kidney Helpline on 1800 454 363. Kidney Health Australia also has resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people s.
What is the most common form of kidney disease?
Chronic kidney disease is the most common form of kidney disease. There are five recognised stages. Stage 1 is the mildest form and often hard to detect with no obvious signs. It gradually progresses through to kidney failure in later stages. There are many different causes of kidney disease. Currently in Australia, the most common is diabetes.
Kidney Disease References
If you want to know more about Kidney Disease, consider exploring links below:
What Is Kidney Disease
- https://kidney.org.au/your-kidneys/what-is-kidney-disease
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-kidney-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20354521
- https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/chronic-kidney-disease
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/kidney-disease-7254544
- https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease