Is Reversing Kidney Disease Really Possible?

Kidney Disease Relief

 According the medical experts, kidney disease affects more than 10 percent of adults to one degree or another. The incidence and seriousness of kidney disease increase significantly with age, but people with specific risk factors are most likely to suffer from chronic kidney disease. Traditional medical treatments are available, ranging from medication to dialysis to organ transplants. However, there are many who argue that non-traditional treatments should also be considered by anyone suffering from kidney disease. Reversing kidney disease should be the goal of all patients facing the effects of chronic kidney disease. However, in order to treat kidney disease, sufferers first need to understand the causes and effects of chronic kidney disease.

What are the symptoms of chronic kidney disease?

One of the problems facing medical professionals routinely involved in chronic kidney disease treatment is that people with early stages of kidney failure rarely recognize they have a medical problem. Diagnosis rarely occurs until later stages of the disease, where normal treatments are difficult, with less successful outcomes. Treatments are more likely to succeed if the symptoms of kidney failure are recognized early.

Typical symptoms of kidney disease include:

1. Changes in urination patterns. Any changes in color, amount or odors associated with urination should be investigated promptly.

2. Retention of fluids. A buildup of fluids may cause swelling of feet or ankles, or cause a puffiness around the face. Any unexplained swelling may indicate kidney problems.

3. Nausea or vomiting. Any time that impurities are not properly removed, severe discomfort resulting in vomiting is common. When the condition is on-going or frequent, a visit to a medical professional is indicated.

4. Chronic Fatigue. Kidneys not functioning properly do not produce the same hormones healthy kidneys produce, resulting in reduced red blood cell counts. Energy levels drop off as kidney function is reduced.

While there are other physical symptoms reported, these four are commonly associated with reduced kidney function, and each should be checked out to reduce the likelihood of further damage.

How can chronic kidney disease be treated?

There are several theories of how to treat kidney disease. Standard medical treatments consider several factors that influence chronic kidney disease. Identified risk factors include a family history of kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and age. Individuals over 60 are at increasing risk, with those over age 70 being at highest risk of being diagnosed with chronic kidney disease.

Treatment, especially treatment of early stage kidney disease, must include dealing with those issues. Controlling diabetes and reducing high blood pressure are important for reducing the potential for developing chronic kidney disease. Recognizing the existence of genetic tendencies and age factors allows changes in lifestyle that can also reduce the incidence or severeity of kidney issues.

Typical treatment for late stage kidney disease includes dialysis and organ transplants. While these treatments may be appropriate for many individuals, there may be alternative treatments that could prevent long-term dialysis requirements, or eliminate the need for organ transplant surgery.

Should naturopathic treatments be considered for chronic kidney disease?

Naturopathic treatments for chronic kidney disease are becoming increasingly common as a part of a complete treatment plan. Naturopathic treatments, even for End Stage Renal Failure, often produce positive results, allowing patients to live a more normal life. While there are variations to suggested naturopathic treatments, all follow similar patterns.

1. First, remove wastes from the blood supply. The primary function of the kidneys is to remove wastes. When they are unable to perform that function properly, the buildup of wastes quickly becomes toxic. There are different methods to purify the blood supply, and specific treatments are tailored to the needs of each individual.

2. The second step is to develop a renal diet plan. Proper nutrition reduces the stresses placed on the body's organs, allowing the body to begin healing itself. Again, specific dietary recommendations are based on the degree of illness.

3. The third step is to develop a long-range plan for kidney health. Not all kidney damage can be reversed, but steps can be taken to enhance the function of healthy kidney cells and reduce the chances for additional damage. The plan may include different medications and lifestyle changes. As with all treatments, patients do not respond the same, but many kidney patients are, after treatments, able to stop dialysis.

The key to reversing or preventing further kidney damage is to diagnose the condition during its early stages. Individuals with any of the markers indicating kidney damage should immediately seek medical advice, as it is far easier to deal with kidney disease while it is still in its early stages. However, even when diagnosed during later stages, chronic kidney disease is treatable.