Introduction to Nephrology: Essential Guide to Kidney Health and Disease.pdf

Discover the vital role of nephrology in maintaining kidney health, understanding common kidney diseases, their symptoms, risk factors, diagnostic methods, treatment options, and preventive measures for a healthier life.

1. NEPHROLOGY
Understanding Kidney
Health and Disease

2. Definition:
Nephrology is a branch of medicine that
deals with the study and treatment of kidney
diseases.
Kidneys:
Essential organs responsible for filtering
blood, removing waste, and balancing
electrolytes.

3. Functions of the Kidneys
Filtration: Removal of waste products and
excess substances from the bloodstream.
Regulation: Maintenance of fluid and
electrolyte balance, blood pressure
regulation, and acid-base balance.
Hormone Production: Production of
hormones like erythropoietin (stimulates red
blood cell production) and renin (regulates
blood pressure).

4. Common Kidney
Diseases
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Long-term
condition characterized by gradual loss of kidney
function.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Sudden onset of kidney
failure or damage.
Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the kidney's
filtering units (glomeruli).
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): Genetic disorder
causing numerous cysts in the kidneys.

5. Symptoms of Kidney
Disease
Early Symptoms: Fatigue, swelling in the
legs and ankles, frequent urination, foamy
urine.
Advanced Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting,
loss of appetite, muscle cramps, shortness
of breath.

6. Risk Factors
Diabetes: Leading cause of kidney
disease.
Hypertension: High blood pressure
can damage kidney blood vessels.
Family History: Genetic
predisposition to kidney diseases.
Age: Risk increases with age.
Lifestyle: Poor diet, smoking, and
lack of exercise.
Diagnosis
Blood Tests: Measure levels of
creatinine and urea to assess kidney
function.
Urine Tests: Check for protein, blood,
and other abnormalities.
Imaging: Ultrasound, CT scan, and
MRI to visualize kidney structure.
Biopsy: Sampling kidney tissue for
microscopic examination.

7. Treatment
Medications: Manage symptoms,
control blood pressure, and reduce
proteinuria.
Diet and Lifestyle: Low-sodium diet,
fluid management, and regular
exercise.
Dialysis: Artificial blood filtration
when kidneys fail.
Kidney Transplant: Replacement of a
diseased kidney with a healthy
donor kidney.
Prevention
Regular Check-ups: Early detection
and management of risk factors.
Healthy Lifestyle: Balanced diet,
regular physical activity, and avoiding
smoking.
Control of Blood Sugar and Pressure:
Effective management of diabetes
and hypertension.

8. Interesting Facts
Kidney Size and Function: Each kidney is about the size of a fist and filters
approximately 120-150 quarts of blood daily.
Silent Disease: Many kidney diseases progress silently without symptoms until
advanced stages.
Regenerative Medicine: Research in stem cell therapy and bioengineering for
potential kidney regeneration and repair.
Conclusion
Awareness: Increasing awareness and education about kidney health can help
prevent and manage kidney diseases effectively.
Importance: Healthy kidneys are vital for overall well-being and longevity.

9. https://karpagamhospital.in
Karpagam Hospital, Pollachi Main Road, Othakkalmandapam,
Coimbatore – 641 032, Tamil Nadu, India.
75985 09767
Phone
Website
Address
Contact
Information

10. THANK YOU