final paper.docxof ckd in human dishhhhhhease

joshiamisha56 7 views 9 slides Oct 26, 2025
Slide 1
Slide 1 of 9
Slide 1
1
Slide 2
2
Slide 3
3
Slide 4
4
Slide 5
5
Slide 6
6
Slide 7
7
Slide 8
8
Slide 9
9

About This Presentation

This is about ckd


Slide Content

Critical Summary of Patients’ Journeys
in Kidney Disease
ABSTRACT
*Critical summary of Patients' Journeys in Kidney Disease*
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 697.5 million individuals worldwide, with a 9.1%
prevalence. Understanding patients' journeys is crucial for effective care.
*Key Components of Patient-Centered Care*
1. *Early Detection*: Identifying CKD early slows progression, reducing cardiovascular risks
and mortality.
2. *Personalized Treatment*: Tailoring care to individual needs improves health outcomes
and quality of life.
3. *Emotional Support*: Addressing anxiety, fear, and grief enhances patient well-being and
treatment adherence.
4. *Education*: Empowering patients improves self-care and health literacy.
5. *Multidisciplinary Care*: Collaboration ensures comprehensive support.
*Improving Health Outcomes*
Understanding patients' unique needs at each CKD stage enables healthcare providers to
deliver compassionate and effective care, improving quality of life and health outcomes. By
adopting a patient-centered approach, healthcare providers can improve CKD management,
enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life.
*Benefits of Patient-Centered Care*
- Improved health outcomes
- Enhanced patient satisfaction
- Better treatment adherence
- Increased patient empowerment
*Conclusion*
Patient-centered care is essential for effective CKD management. By understanding
patients' journeys and providing tailored care, healthcare providers can improve health
outcomes, quality of life, and patient satisfaction. A multidisciplinary approach, incorporating
emotional support, education, and personalized treatment, is critical for delivering high-
quality care to patients with CKD.

1. Introduction: Development of Kidney Disease
Kidney disease often arises from progressive injury to the renal parenchyma and its filtration
structures. Commonly, long-term hypertension and diabetes initiate glomerular damage,
leading to loss of nephrons and decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR). As functional
kidney mass declines, waste products and fluid accumulate, impairing homeostasis. Chronic
inflammation, scarring (fibrosis), and microvascular changes contribute to the gradual
decline in renal function. Secondary factors such as genetic predispositions or repeated
acute kidney injuries also drive chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression, with a final
common pathway of compensatory hyperfiltration in remaining nephrons that eventually
leads to further glomerulosclerosis. By definition, CKD requires at least three months of
evidence of kidney structural or functional abnormalities (e.g. reduced GFR or proteinuria).
In the early stages, damage can be silent, but over time it manifests in clinical symptoms as
filtration capacity is lost. Key etiologies vary by region but globally diabetes mellitus and
hypertension account for the majority of CKD cases, together responsible for roughly two-
thirds of all CKD. In addition, primary kidney diseases such as glomerulonephritis, interstitial
nephritis, and inherited conditions (e.g. polycystic kidney disease) contribute to disease
development. Importantly, age, race/ethnicity, and socioeconomic factors influence CKD risk
and progression. Over 30 million people in the US and approximately 10% of the world’s
population are estimated to have some form of CKD. Early renal injury often goes
unrecognized; without intervention, patients may slowly progress to end-stage renal failure,
necessitating dialysis or transplantation.
2. Kidney Stone Development and Shellfish
Consumption
Kidney stones form when urinary solutes – especially minerals like calcium, oxalate, and uric
acid – become supersaturated and crystallize. Stone formation typically requires two factors:
high concentration of stone-forming substances and inadequate urine volume. In a saturated
urine environment, crystals nucleate and aggregate, much like sugar crystallizing from syrup.
Calcium stones (especially calcium oxalate) are most common, but diets and metabolic
states influence stone type. Notably, diets high in purines (found in red meats, poultry, and
seafood) can elevate uric acid levels. Excess purine intake from foods such as shellfish, fish,
and organ meats increases urinary uric acid, leading to uric acid stone formation when urine
becomes acidic. Therefore, frequent shellfish consumption may contribute to uric acid
crystalluria in susceptible individuals. By contrast, shellfish are generally low in oxalate, so
they primarily affect purine metabolism rather than calcium-oxalate risk. In practice,
hydration is critical: dilute urine reduces saturation and helps prevent crystals from forming.
Insufficient fluid intake (e.g. urine that is dark or concentrated) is a well-known risk factor for
stones. Once stones form, they can grow and cause obstruction. Patients typically remain
asymptomatic until a stone lodges in the ureter; then severe pain (renal colic), hematuria, or
infection can occur. Thus, preventing stones involves maintaining high urine output and
moderating intake of stone-promoting foods. In summary, kidney stones develop via crystal
precipitation in concentrated urine, and shellfish-rich diets may predispose to uric acid
stones due to their high purine content
3. Healthy versus Unhealthy Individual: A Hypothetical
Comparison
Consider two individuals with identical age and initial kidney anatomy. The “healthy”
individual maintains a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and no chronic illnesses.

Blood pressure remains normal, glucose metabolism is intact, and body weight is stable.
This person drinks adequate water and avoids excess sodium or protein loads. As a result,
kidney function remains robust. Routine blood tests show stable creatinine and normal urine
studies. Over decades, any age-related decline in GFR is minimal (less than 1 mL/min/year).
If minor issues arise (e.g. transient illness), they recover quickly without lasting kidney injury.
Preventive screenings and education mean early issues (like slightly elevated blood
pressure) are promptly managed, further protecting renal health.
The “unhealthy” individual, by contrast, has several risk factors. They may have poorly
controlled type 2 diabetes and long-standing hypertension (or high dietary sodium intake),
and perhaps a sedentary lifestyle with obesity and smoking. High blood glucose leads to
glomerular hyperfiltration and glycation damage, while hypertension causes pressure-
mediated injury to small renal vessels. Over time, the kidneys of this person undergo
glomerulosclerosis and interstitial fibrosis. Biochemical tests eventually reveal
microalbuminuria and rising creatinine. Due to delayed screening, CKD is often diagnosed
late. Without lifestyle interventions or tight medical control, progression is faster. The
“unhealthy” individual is more prone to complications: for example, cardiovascular disease
frequently coexists and further stresses renal perfusion. In short, whereas the healthy
person’s kidneys age slowly and manage metabolic wastes efficiently, the unhealthy
person’s kidneys endure ongoing insults that accelerate dysfunction. Studies confirm that
adherence to ideal lifestyles (non-smoking, regular exercise, balanced diet) correlates with
slower CKD progression and lower mortality. Thus in our hypothetical scenario, the healthy
individual may preserve near-normal function into old age, while the unhealthy individual is
on a trajectory toward advanced CKD or end-stage renal disease much earlier, absent
vigorous intervention.
4. Ayurvedic Insights on Kidney Disease
In Ayurvedic medicine, kidney disorders are often described under the classical entity Vrikka
Vikara, involving disturbances of the Mutravaha Srotas (urinary channels) and associated
tissues. Ayurveda attributes kidney pathology to imbalances in the Tridoshas (Vata, Pitta,
Kapha) and their effects on bodily tissues (Dhatus) such as Meda (fat), Rakta (blood), and
Mamsa (muscle). Typically, chronic kidney conditions are seen as predominantly Vata
disorders with Kapha involvement. In particular, aggravated Apana Vayu (a subtype of
Vata) impairs the kidney’s apana (downward-moving energy), leading to poor urine formation
and retention. Simultaneously, excess Kapha (due to its heavy, sticky qualities) can block
micro-channels and venous drainage in the kidney, causing congestion. Ayurvedic scholars
describe chronic renal degeneration (akin to CKD) as obstruction and vitiation in the
Mutravaha Srotas from accumulation of all three doshas; Kapha blocks and creates
“microangiopathy,” while Vata leads to structural degeneration of kidney tissues.
Ayurveda also emphasizes the role of Teekshna (sharp/pungent) and Ruksha (dry) qualities
in pathogenic diets and drugs. Consuming sharp-tasting or overly spicy medications,
chemicals, or foods can vitiate Vata and Pitta, disturbing urine flow and metabolism.
Likewise, Apathya (harmful) behaviors like suppressing natural urges (e.g. delaying
urination) or ingesting toxins can provoke Mudovaha (fatty tissue channels) and Mutravaha
Sroto dushti. The srotas theory holds that all organ systems communicate via channels; thus
kidney disease often reflects broader systemic derangements. For example, imbalances in
Medovaha (fat metabolism) or Raktavaha (blood) srotas may influence kidney function.
Ayurvedic management stresses Dosha balance and Rasayana (rejuvenation). Herbal
therapies that have Lekhana(scraping) properties may remove channel blockages, while
Rasayana herbs strengthen tissue resistance. Some Ayurvedic texts explicitly link CRF to
Mutravaha Srotas disturbance, recommending treatments that reduce Kapha and Vata in the

urinary tract. In summary, kidney disease in Ayurveda is understood as a Vrikka Vikara of
the urinary srota involving tridoshic imbalance (predominantly Vata and Kapha), occlusion of
channels, and reduction of ojas (vital essence). Prevention and therapy focus on pacifying
aggravated doshas, avoiding sharp or dry aggravating factors, and restoring proper urinary
flow through diet, herbal formulations, and procedures like basti (medicated enema).
5. Incidence and Epidemiology (Including End-Stage
Nephropathy)
Chronic kidney disease is increasingly recognized as a major global health issue. Worldwide
prevalence estimates suggest that about 10–14% of the general population have CKD,
though true incidence is hard to measure due to underdiagnosis. In 2010, CKD moved from
the 27th to the 18th leading cause of death globally. In many regions, CKD prevalence is
rising in tandem with diabetes and hypertension epidemics. In low- and middle-income
countries, CKD often affects younger adults due to environmental and occupational factors;
for instance, agricultural communities in Central America and South Asia have endemic
chronic interstitial nephritis from repeated heat stress and toxins.
In India, limited data indicate rapid growth of CKD. A population-based study in Bhopal
found an ESRD incidence of about 150 per million population per year. Of these new
ESRD cases, roughly 44–46% were due to diabetic nephropathy. Alarmingly, fewer than
10% of Indian ESRD patients actually receive renal replacement therapy (dialysis or
transplant). The Indian CKD population is therefore burdened by high out-of-pocket costs
and limited access to late-stage care. Globally, over 2 million people are receiving
dialysis or living with transplants, yet this likely represents only about 10% of those who
need it. The remaining vast majority of CKD patients, often in resource-poor areas, go
untreated until death.
CKD disproportionately affects the elderly; prevalence rises sharply after age 60. Specific
populations (e.g. African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans) also have higher rates of
progression to kidney failure, partly due to socioeconomic factors and comorbidities. In India
and worldwide, projections warn of millions more CKD cases as diabetes and hypertension
rates climb. Recent data show that CKD contributes substantially to disability-adjusted life
years (DALYs) – for example, CKD accounted for nearly 3 million DALYs lost globally in
2012. In summary, CKD incidence and prevalence are high and rising, with tens of millions
affected worldwide, and a large subset eventually progressing to end-stage renal disease.
Unfortunately, access to life-saving dialysis or transplant is limited for most, especially in
developing regions. This makes CKD an urgent public health concern requiring prevention
and early intervention strategies.
6. Types of Kidney Diseases
Kidney diseases encompass a broad spectrum of disorders. They can be classified by
affected structures (glomerular, tubular/interstitial, vascular, or obstructive) or by disease
course (acute vs. chronic). Major types include:
●Diabetic Nephropathy: A leading cause of CKD, characterized by progressive
glomerulosclerosis and proteinuria in the context of diabetes mellitus.
●Hypertensive Nephrosclerosis: Long-standing hypertension causes ischemic
damage to renal arterioles and glomeruli, leading to CKD.
●Glomerulonephritis: Inflammatory diseases of the glomeruli. This includes acute
post-infectious GN, IgA nephropathy, lupus nephritis, membranous nephropathy,

focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), and others. Presentations range from
asymptomatic hematuria to full nephrotic syndrome.
●Tubulointerstitial Nephritis: Damage primarily to renal tubules and interstitium. Can
be acute (often drug- or infection-related) or chronic (e.g. reflux nephropathy,
obstructive uropathy, analgesic nephropathy). Heavy metals or certain herbal toxins
also cause interstitial fibrosis.
●Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): A genetic disorder (often autosomal dominant)
leading to numerous fluid-filled cysts, kidney enlargement, and eventual renal failure.
●Obstructive Uropathy: Chronic blockage of urinary outflow (from stones, prostatic
hypertrophy, tumors, congenital malformations) leads to hydronephrosis and
pressure atrophy of renal tissue.
●Renal Vascular Diseases: Conditions like renal artery stenosis (atherosclerotic or
fibromuscular dysplasia) that cause ischemic nephropathy. Rare vasculitides (e.g.
polyarteritis nodosa) can also impair renal vessels.
●Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): A sudden decline in renal function (e.g. due to sepsis,
shock, nephrotoxins) which may recover or become chronic. While technically not a
chronic disease, AKI episodes increase CKD risk.
●Congenital Anomalies and Hereditary Disorders: Includes congenital anomalies
of kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT), Alport syndrome, medullary sponge kidney, and
others.
Each of these categories can progress to CKD or ESRD if not treated. For example, chronic
glomerulonephritides may slowly destroy nephrons over years, while interstitial diseases
may cause insidious fibrosis. In clinical practice, many patients have overlapping
contributors (e.g. a diabetic patient who also has hypertensive damage and mild reflux).
Identifying the type is crucial for targeted management (e.g. immunosuppression for GN vs.
blood sugar control for diabetic CKD). Importantly, chronic conditions often evolve through
Stages 1–5 of CKD based on GFR, whereas acute injuries may be reversible if caught early.
7. Early Detection: Modern Clinical Methods and
Ayurvedic Concepts
Modern Screening and Diagnostics: Early identification of kidney disease relies on
laboratory and imaging tools. Routine blood tests measure serum creatinine to estimate
GFR; persistent reductions in eGFR (<60 mL/min/1.73m^2) signify CKD stages 3–5. Urine
tests are equally important: a dipstick or lab assay for albumin (albuminuria) reveals early
kidney injury even when GFR is normal. Microalbuminuria screening is recommended for
high-risk groups (diabetics, hypertensives). Other markers (blood urea nitrogen, cystatin C)
can also indicate reduced clearance. Automated algorithms (e.g. CGA staging) combine
cause, GFR, and albuminuria to classify CKD severity. Imaging (renal ultrasound) may
detect structural causes (cysts, obstruction) early. Because CKD is asymptomatic early,
guidelines advise screening in people with diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of renal
disease. Repeated testing over 3 months is used to confirm chronicity. Timely diagnosis
allows interventions (e.g. ACE inhibitors to reduce proteinuria) that can slow progression.
Ayurvedic Early Detection: While Ayurveda lacks modern labs, it emphasizes dinacharya
(daily regimen) and swasthavritta (preventive routines) for health monitoring. Early warning
signs (e.g. changes in urine color, frequency, or consistency) prompt ayurvedic evaluation of
dosha shifts. Practitioners assess prakriti (constitutional type) to gauge vulnerability: for
instance, a Vata-predominant individual (prone to dryness and mobility) may manifest
urinary issues more readily when consuming incompatible foods. Ayurvedic examination
might include pulse diagnosis or tongue/urine observation to detect dosha imbalance in
urinary channels. Crucially, Ayurveda underscores Jalopana (proper hydration). Maintaining

adequate fluid intake is seen as Mootrala (diuretic and cleansing) for the kidneys. Elderly or
Vata-dominant persons are advised to drink warm liquids in moderation to avoid Agni
(digestive fire) impairment and to support mutravaha srotas. In summary, while modern
medicine uses lab screening for GFR and proteins, Ayurveda relies on constitutional
assessment (prakruti), symptom surveillance, and lifestyle (including hydration) to catch
early renal imbalance. Integrating both approaches – e.g. correlating urine changes with
biochemical markers – could enhance early detection.
8. Psychosomatic Relationships with Kidney Disease
The interplay between mind and kidney health is an important, if sometimes
underappreciated, aspect of nephrology. Psychological stress, anxiety, and depression are
both consequences of and contributors to kidney disease. Physiologically, chronic stress
triggers sustained sympathetic overactivity, raising blood pressure and releasing cortisol,
which can damage renal microcirculation over time. Stress also impairs glycemic control,
compounding diabetes-related kidney injury. Thus, persistent psychosocial strain is
considered a risk factor for accelerating CKD progression. Conversely, living with CKD or
undergoing dialysis imposes heavy mental burdens – patients frequently face depression,
anxiety, and reduced quality of life. This psychological distress can worsen adherence to
treatment and dietary restrictions, creating a vicious cycle: for example, a depressed patient
may neglect fluid or dietary limits, causing fluid overload or electrolyte imbalance that further
harms the kidneys. Medical surveys show high rates (often >50%) of anxiety and depression
among dialysis patients. These emotions also manifest physically; in Ayurveda, the kidneys
are associated with Ojas (vital essence) and Apan Vayu, which can be disrupted by Vata’s
agitation, illustrating the mind-body paradigm.
Coping mechanisms and social support improve outcomes. Stress-management techniques
(mindfulness, meditation, yoga) have been shown to lower blood pressure and cortisol,
potentially slowing CKD progression.Furthermore, psychosocial support (family, counseling)
helps patients maintain treatment regimens and lifestyle changes. In sum, kidney disease is
not purely biomedical but deeply psychosomatic: emotional well-being can influence kidney
health via neurohormonal pathways, and vice versa.Comprehensive care for kidney patients
must therefore include mental health support alongside medical treatment.
9. Lack of Awareness and a Hypothetical Case Example
Awareness of kidney disease remains remarkably low, even in populations with high
prevalence. Globally, only about 10% of individuals with CKD know they have it. In the
US, nearly 9 out of 10 adults with CKD are unaware of their condition. This “silent epidemic”
of undiagnosed CKD means many patients present late, often with complications or in end-
stage. Contributing factors include the asymptomatic nature of early CKD and lack of routine
screening in primary care.
Hypothetical Case Example: Imagine Raj, a 55-year-old man with type 2 diabetes and
borderline blood pressure. He rarely visits a doctor and assumes his occasional fatigue is
just age or busy work. He feels fine, drinks alcohol socially, and eats a typical diet high in
salt. Unbeknownst to him, his kidneys are gradually failing. Without routine blood or urine
tests, Raj’s CKD (stage 3) goes unchecked for years. He begins to notice swelling in his
ankles and nighttime cramps, but still has no idea the kidneys are involved. Finally, during a
hospital visit for unrelated surgery, blood tests reveal high serum creatinine and a GFR of
45. Only then is chronic kidney disease diagnosed. By this time, Raj requires multiple
interventions (dietary salt restriction, medications to control blood pressure and proteinuria)
to slow further decline.

This scenario reflects reality: a large percentage of CKD patients only learn of their disease
at an advanced stage. Improved public health education is essential. Just as communities
are sensitized about infectious diseases like TB, the medical community should promote
awareness of CKD symptoms (even vague ones) and risk factors. Early nephrology referral
and community screening programs, especially for high-risk groups, can bridge this gap.
10. Public Perception: TB versus Kidney Disease
In many cultures, chronic illnesses have differing visibility. A popular saying in Hindi
humorously captures this contrast:
“टीबी से लोग डरते हैं, कि
डनी से अनजान रहते हैं
; ए
क छींक से डराते हैं
, दूसरा खामोशी से तबाह
कर देता
है।”
Translation: “People fear TB, but remain ignorant about kidney disease; one frightens with a
sneeze, the other destroys in silence.”
This quote underscores the lack of awareness about kidney disease. Tuberculosis is well-
known and feared; kidney disease, which spreads silently, often receives much less
attention. Such anecdotes highlight the need for better public education – making chronic
kidney disease as widely recognized as TB or diabetes, so that people do not ignore its
subtle warning signs.
11. Patient Education and Empowerment in Treatment
Empowering patients is fundamental to managing kidney disease. Education should cover
disease basics (what the kidneys do), risk factors, and the importance of lifestyle
management. Clinicians must explain the reasons behind dietary changes (e.g. low salt,
controlled protein) and medication regimens to help patients become active participants in
their own care. Tools include informational brochures, multimedia resources, and support
groups. For example, CKD patients can benefit from counseling on blood pressure control
and glucose monitoring, as well as self-monitoring of weight and symptoms. Digital tools
(apps for medication reminders or fluid tracking) are increasingly used.
Empowerment also involves teaching self-management skills. Patients who understand the
meaning of lab results (such as what an eGFR number implies) feel more in control.
Involving family members or community health workers can reinforce education. Studies
show that educated patients have better adherence to treatment plans and slower CKD
progression. Healthcare teams should therefore allocate time for clear, compassionate
communication, ensuring patients can ask questions and express concerns. By fostering this
knowledge and confidence, patients become co-decision-makers. For instance, a patient
who knows that high blood pressure worsens kidney damage will be more motivated to
adhere to antihypertensive therapy and lifestyle changes. In short, patient education and
empowerment transform the treatment journey from passive compliance to active
engagement, improving the likelihood of better outcomes and quality of life.
12. Multidisciplinary Care: Integrating AYUSH and
Modern Medicine

Kidney disease management benefits from a team-based, holistic approach. Traditional
Western nephrology care (nephrologists, nurses, dietitians) can be complemented by
practitioners of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Siddha, Unani, Homoeopathy) to provide
integrative care. For example, Ayurvedic physicians might advise personalized dietary and
lifestyle modifications rooted in dosha balance, or administer herbal formulations (as studies
have investigated) alongside conventional therapies. Yoga therapy, as an AYUSH modality,
can improve blood pressure and stress resilience in CKD patients. Importantly, integration
means consistent communication: all providers share patient data to avoid conflicts (e.g.
herb-drug interactions). Some centers now offer joint “integrative renal clinics” where
patients see both a nephrologist and an Ayurvedic physician. Such collaboration can
address the full spectrum of patient needs – from symptom relief to psychosocial support –
recognizing that chronic illness care is complex.
Evidence from multidisciplinary models shows that coordinated care can support patients
with advanced CKD in maintaining their health. The nephrology literature emphasizes that
adding professionals (dietitians, social workers, pharmacists) improves clinical outcomes. In
an Indian context, adding Ayurveda and yoga expertise could similarly enhance prevention,
slow progression, and improve patient satisfaction. For instance, dietary recommendations
can be enriched by Ayurveda’s emphasis on seasonal and individual constitutions, while
patients practice yoga for physical and mental fitness. Collaborative research is needed, but
a philosophy of respect for both medical systems allows pooling the strengths of each. In
summary, a collaborative multidisciplinary model – uniting modern nephrology with
AYUSH disciplines – offers a comprehensive patient-centered framework. This can
maximize healing potential by combining evidence-based medicine with time-honored
holistic practices.
13. Improving Health Outcomes: The Patient-Centered
Care Approach
Patient-centered care in kidney disease prioritizes the individual’s preferences, needs, and
values throughout the care process. Instead of a one-size-fits-all protocol, the care plan is
tailored: educational level, cultural background, and personal goals are all considered. In
practice, this means involving patients in decision-making (e.g. discussing dialysis
modalities, transplant options), respecting their values (dietary preferences, lifestyle), and
ensuring clear communication. Studies have demonstrated that such an approach supports
patients – especially those with advanced disease – in achieving outcomes comparable to
less ill patients under usual care. Multidisciplinary teams facilitate patient-centeredness by
addressing not only medical but also psychosocial and nutritional aspects.
Benefits of Patient-Centered Care:
●Improved Health Outcomes: When care is aligned with patient goals, adherence
improves and complications are reduced. Empowered patients often achieve better
blood pressure and sugar control.
●Enhanced Patient Satisfaction: Patients who feel heard and respected report
higher satisfaction. They trust their providers and engage more fully, which leads to
better follow-up and preventive care.
●Better Treatment Adherence: By involving patients in setting realistic treatment
plans (e.g. manageable dietary changes), adherence is increased. Patients are more
likely to follow regimens they helped create.
●Increased Patient Empowerment: Centering care on the patient encourages self-
efficacy. Patients gain knowledge and confidence to manage their condition, leading
to lifestyle changes that can delay CKD progression.

Incorporating patient-centered principles – listening to patient stories, addressing individual
barriers, and shared decision-making – transforms the clinical encounter from directive to
collaborative. Organizations like Kidney Disease Quality Initiative emphasize patient-
centered quality measures. Ultimately, centering care around the patient’s journey through
kidney disease fosters trust and leads to more meaningful, sustainable health improvements.
14. Conclusion
Patients’ journeys through kidney disease are complex and deeply individual. From initial
silent injury to late-stage organ failure, the trajectory is shaped by medical factors (like
diabetes control), psychosocial context (stress, awareness), and even traditional health
beliefs (Ayurvedic doshas). A thorough understanding of these journeys – including how
lifestyle, stress, and cultural perceptions influence progression – allows healthcare providers
to offer truly personalized care. The literature strongly supports that such tailored,
multidisciplinary care improves outcomes: patients fare better when all aspects of their
health are addressed in concert. By blending modern clinical methods with Ayurvedic
wisdom, and by centering care on the patient’s own needs and values, the healthcare team
can slow CKD’s advance, reduce complications, and empower individuals. In essence, when
we map and respond to each patient’s unique kidney-disease journey, we not only extend
lives but enhance their quality – turning a silence of suffering into one of hope and resilience.
*Keywords*
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD),Patient-Centered Care,Kidney Disease
Management ,Multidisciplinary Care,Emotional Support
References
●StatPearls. Chronic Kidney Disease. NCBI Bookshelf; 2023.
●Yale Medicine. What Causes Kidney Stones? (Kathy Katella, April 19, 2023).
●American Diabetes Association. Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, and Chronic Kidney
Disease (CKD). (Accessed 2023).
●American Kidney Fund. Stress, Mental Health, and Managing Kidney Disease.
(2025).
●Tiga R. Vrikka Vikara vis-à-vis Chronic Kidney Disease: A Critical Review.
Ayushdhara (Jul-Aug 2024) 11(4):143-150.
●Sawarkar P, et al. Management of Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) through Ayurveda: A
Case Report. Journal of Kidney 2016, 7(11):256.
●Modi GK, Jha V. The incidence of end-stage renal disease in India: A population-
based study. Kidney Int. 2006;70(2):212–8.
●National Kidney Foundation. Global Facts: About Kidney Disease. 2010/2015.
(Accessed 2023)
●National Kidney Foundation. CKD Awareness Statistics. (Accessed 2023)
●Nunes J, et al. Patient-Centered Outcomes with a Multidisciplinary CKD Care Team
Approach: An Observational Study. BMC Nephrol. 2023 Apr 26;24(1):141.
Tags