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There are many types of kidney disease, most of which are potentially serious. Whether you get kidney disease is mostly due to bad luck, but whether it progresses to end-stage kidney failure does depend largely on what is done about it.
Some kidney diseases are genetic, such as Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD). The kidneys become filled with cysts, which cause the kidneys to become less effective, and eventually leads to kidney failure. A variant of PKD is not usually detected until adulthood. This is known as "adult PKD", as the symptoms usually do not occur until patients are well into adulthood. However, with advances in diagnostic imaging technology, doctors are gradually becoming able to detect these conditions before symptoms appear.
The kidneys, two fist-sized organs weighing about 150gm each, are located on either side of the spine just above the waist and perform a life-sustaining role. They cleanse the blood and help regulate blood pressure. Each adult kidney is composed of about 1 million nephrons that drain about 14 calyces.
The kidneys make renin and erythropoietin, and convert vitamin D into its useful form. More importantly, by forming urine they perform three important functions: - The kidneys excrete the waste products of metabolism. A patient with any sort of impaired kidney function will have increased creatinine and urea nitrogen in the blood, or azotemia. If the kidney is adequately perfused, is itself normal, and its outflow not obstructed, blood urea nitrogen levels will remain within normal limits.
- The kidneys regulate the body's content of water, sodium, and potassium. Hypertension, edema, and/or hyperkalemia may develop in renal disease. Renal edema is first visible around the patient's eyes.
- The kidneys maintain the appropriate acid-base balance of plasma. Metabolic acidosis is characteristic of severe renal failure.
Causes & Development; Risk Factors
High blood pressure, anemia, and bone demineralization are common in serious kidney disease. Renal insufficiency due to underperfusion (dehydration, shock or a failing heart) or due to obstruction is extremely common. High blood pressure commonly result from kidney problems, and always damages the kidneys to some extent.
Once the kidney is damaged to a certain degree, it continues to deteriorate (i.e., undergo more scarring, notably glomerular sclerosis) even if the underlying disease is cured. [Lancet 338: pp.419 & 423, 1991]
Kidney Failure: Loss of Renal Function
Acute renal failure usually manifests itself as oliguria plus azotemia. Hyperkalemia is the main threat to life during the oliguric phase.
Chronic renal failure is the end result of irreversible kidney damage from any cause. Sometimes the cause of the "end-stage contracted kidney" cannot be determined even at autopsy. Once a sufficient number of nephrons are destroyed, it causes the remainder of them to die off inexorably.
Anuria, the complete cessation of urine production, is rare in acute renal failure -- the major exception being diffuse cortical necrosis. It may occur late in chronic renal failure. Much more often though, anuria is due to obstruction of ureters or urethra.
African-Americans are more at risk for end-stage kidney disease, for reasons that include a greater severity and frequency of hypertensive kidney disease in this population. Whether their problems are neglected by doctors, or treated less skillfully is an open question. [Ann. Int. Med. 155: p.1201, 1995]
Signs & Symptoms
When the kidneys become diseased or damaged, they can suddenly or gradually lose their ability to perform their vital functions. Waste products and excess fluid then build up inside the body, causing a variety of symptoms, particularly swelling of the hands and feet, shortness of breath, and a frequent urge to urinate.
Symptoms include: increased urination at night; the passing of very small amounts of urine (oliguria); swelling, particularly of the hands and feet; puffiness around the eyes; azotemia (Increased levels of urea in blood); unpleasant taste in the mouth and urine-like odor to the breath; persistent fatigue or shortness of breath; loss of appetite; increasingly higher blood pressure; pale skin; excessively dry, persistently itchy skin. In children: increased fatigue and sleepiness; decrease in appetite; and eventually, poor growth.
Treatment & Prevention
Since the kidneys need to process a huge amount of daily waste, adequate water intake is essential for them to continue functioning properly. Using kidney herbs occasionally or going on a kidney cleanse once or twice a year is a good practice to reduce the likelihood of progressive kidney damage or stone formation.
There are many kidney cleansing products available at health food stores. Any of them should generally be safe to use in moderation.
Prognosis
If left untreated, diseased kidneys may eventually stop functioning. Loss of kidney function is a very serious and potentially fatal condition.
Spontaneous recovery of renal function is rare but does occur (around 1%, more in patients with lupus) [Am. J. Kid. DIs. 15: p.61, 1990].
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Signs, symptoms & indicators of Kidney Disease:
Conditions that suggest Kidney Disease:
Risk factors for Kidney Disease: | | | | | Autoimmune |  Lupus, SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythromatosis) | Diverse kidney problems can arise from the deposition of circulating immune complexes in the kidneys. Lupus, being an auto-immune disease, causes the immune system to attack the body's own tissues. The commonly affected organs/tissues are skin, joints, nervous system and kidneys. |
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Circulation |
Congestive Heart Failure| | Renal insufficiency due to underperfusion from a failing heart is more widespread than commonly thought. |
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Diet |
 Dehydration |
Environment / Toxicity |
Mercury Toxicity (Amalgam Illness) |
Metabolic |
Anorexia / Starvation Tendency| | The common medical complications of being severely underweight include kidney damage. |
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Organ Health |
Kidney Stones (Urolithiasis)| | A kidney stone that is obstructing will cause damage to the kidneys in the long run if left untreated and may even lead to end stage kidney failure. Anyone with a past history of kidney stones should have regular screening performed as the recurrence rate is high. |
Cirrhosis of the Liver |
Supplements and Medications |
(Past) heroin/morphine use| | Heroin use often leads to heroin nephropathy. |
Pain medication use| | Some non-prescription medications - especially painkillers - can potentially cause damage to the kidneys. This includes traditional Chinese 'herbal' medications. |
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Symptoms - Food - General |
Short-term/long-term low-carb dieting or discontinued low-carb diet| | Followers of diets such as Atkins' risk kidney damage [New England Journal of Medicine 307 (1982): p.652]. Atkins once wrote "The diet is safe for people even if there is a mild kidney malfunction." We now know this to be false.
In a press release entitled "American Kidney Fund Warns About Impact of High-Protein Diets on Kidney Health," their Chair of Medical Affairs Paul W. Crawford, M.D., wrote, "We have long suspected that high-protein weight loss diets could have a negative impact on the kidneys, and now we have research to support our suspicions." [American Kidney Fund news release, 25 April 2002] Dr. Crawford is worried that the strain put on the kidneys could result in irreversible "scarring in the kidneys."
The Harvard Nurse’s Study proved that high meat protein intake was associated with an accelerated decline in kidney function in women with mild kidney insufficiency [Ann In ed 138 (2003): p.460]. The problem is that millions of Americans - as many as one in four adults in the United States - seem to already have reduced kidney function, but do not know it, and would potentially be harmed by high meat diets like Atkins [American Journal of Kidney Diseases 41 (2003): p.1]. The amount of protein deemed "excessive" in the Nurses Study and which furthered their kidney damage is only about half of what one might expect to get on the Atkins Diet. [Journal of the American College of Cardiology 43 (2004): p.725]
American Kidney Fund chair Dr. Crawford concluded, "Chronic kidney disease is not to be taken lightly, and there is no cure for kidney failure. The only treatments are kidney dialysis and kidney transplantation. This research shows that even in healthy athletes, kidney function was impacted and that ought to send a message to anyone who is on a high-protein weight loss diet." [American Kidney Fund News release, 25 April 2002] |
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Kidney Disease suggests the following may be present:
Kidney Disease can lead to:
Recommendations and treatments for Kidney Disease: | | | | | Botanical |  Hydrangea| | Hydrangea is best known for its solvent properties that help break down and prevent further formation of stones and deposits in the urinary system. Hydrangea has been used for hundreds of years in folk medicine to contribute to the elimination of deposits in the bladder and kidneys. |
Gravel Root
Goldenrod| | Golden Rod encourages proper kidney function and was used extensively by the Indians for most kidney disorders. |
 Parsley
Bearberry (Uva Ursi)| | Uva ursi soothes, strengthens, and tightens irritated and inflamed tissues and supports the urinary system by promoting healthy bladder, liver and kidney functions. Uva ursi neutralizes acidity in the urine and increases urine flow and may reduce bloating and water retention. |
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Diet |
Not recommended:
 Therapeutic Fasting |
Mineral |
Not recommended:
 Potassium| | Individuals with kidney dysfunction may have trouble excreting potassium and should only take potassium supplements under the observation of their doctor. |
Magnesium| | If you have kidney problems, taking magnesium supplements may make you accumulate the mineral too quickly, which could be toxic. |
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KEY | | Weak or unproven link | | | Strong or generally accepted link |  | | Strongly counter-indicative |  | | Very strongly or absolutely counter-indicative | | | Likely to help | | | Highly recommended | | | May have adverse consequences | | | Reasonably likely to cause problems |
GLOSSARY
Acidosis
Specifically, the abnormal buildup of acids in the body, classically caused by diabetes or kidney disease. Broadly, the potential caused by increased protein intake or metabolism, coupled with inadequate intake (or loss) of alkali.
Acute
An illness or symptom of sudden onset, which generally has a short duration.
Anemia (Anaemia, Anemias)
A condition resulting from an unusually low number of red blood cells or too little hemoglobin in the red blood cells. The most common type is iron-deficiency anemia in which the red blood cells are reduced in size and number, and hemoglobin levels are low. Clinical symptoms include shortness of breath, lethargy and heart palpitations.
Anuria (Anuric)
The complete cessation of urine production.
Azotemia (Azotemic)
A higher than normal blood level of urea or other nitrogen-containing compounds in the blood. The hallmark test is the serum BUN (blood urea nitrogen) level. Usually caused by the inability of the kidney to excrete these compounds.
Chronic (Chronicity)
Usually referring to chronic illness: Illness extending over a long period of time.
Chronic Renal Failure (Chronic Renal Insufficiency, Kidney Failure, Renal Insufficiency)
(CRF) Irreversible, progressive impaired kidney function. The early stage, when the kidneys no longer function properly but do not yet require dialysis, is known as Chronic Renal Insufficiency (CRI). CRI can be difficult to diagnose, as symptoms are not usually apparent until kidney disease has progressed significantly. Common symptoms include a frequent need to urinate and swelling, as well as possible anemia, fatigue, weakness, headaches and loss of appetite. As the disease progresses, other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bad breath and itchy skin may develop as toxic metabolites, normally filtered out of the blood by the kidneys, build up to harmful levels. Over time (up to 10 or 20 years), CRF generally progresses from CRI to End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD, also known as Kidney Failure). Patients with ESRD no longer have kidney function adequate to sustain life and require dialysis or kidney transplantation. Without proper treatment, ESRD is fatal.
Cirrhosis (Liver Cirrhosis)
A long-term disease in which the liver becomes covered with fiber-like tissue. This causes the liver tissue to break down and become filled with fat. All functions of the liver then decrease, including the production of glucose, processing drugs and alcohol, and vitamin absorption. Stomach and bowel function, and the making of hormones are also affected.
Cysts (Cyst)
A closed pocket or pouch of tissue; a cyst may form within any tissue in the body and can be filled with air, fluid, pus, or other material. Cysts within the lung generally are air-filled, while cysts involving the lymph system or kidneys are fluid filled. Cysts under the skin are benign, extremely common, movable lumps. These may develop as a result of infection, clogging of sebaceous glands, developmental abnormalities or around foreign bodies.
Dialysis
The artificial process of cleaning wastes from the blood when kidneys fail.
Edema
Abnormal accumulation of fluids within tissues resulting in swelling.
Essential Oil (Essential Oils)
Volatile terpene derivative responsible for the odor or taste of a plant.
Gout
A disease characterized by an increased blood uric acid level and sudden onset of episodes of acute arthritis.
Gram (gm, gms, Gramme, Grammes, Grams)
A metric unit of weight, there being approximately 28 grams in one ounce.
Herbs (Herb, Herbal)
Herbs may be used as dried extracts (capsules, powders, teas), glycerites (glycerine extracts), or tinctures (alcohol extracts). Unless otherwise indicated, teas should be made with one teaspoon herb per cup of hot water. Steep covered 5 to 10 minutes for leaf or flowers, and 10 to 20 minutes for roots. Tinctures may be used singly or in combination as noted. The high doses of single herbs suggested may be best taken as dried extracts (in capsules), although tinctures (60 drops four times per day) and teas (4 to 6 cups per day) may also be used.
Hypertension
High blood pressure. Hypertension increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure because it adds to the workload of the heart, causing it to enlarge and, over time, to weaken; in addition, it may damage the walls of the arteries.
Immune System (Immune Response, Immunity)
A complex that protects the body from disease organisms and other foreign bodies. The system includes the humoral immune response and the cell-mediated response. The immune system also protects the body from invasion by making local barriers and inflammation. The process may involve acquired immunity (the ability to learn and remember a specific infectious agent), or innate immunity (the genetically programmed system of responses that attack, digest, remove, and initiate inflammation and tissue healing).
Kidney Stone (Kidney Gravel, Kidney Stones)
A stone (concretion) in the kidney. If the stone is large enough to block the tube (ureter) and stop the flow of urine from the kidney, it must be removed by surgery or other methods. Also called Renal Calculus. Symptoms usually begin with intense waves of pain as a stone moves in the urinary tract. Typically, a person feels a sharp, cramping pain in the back and side in the area of the kidney or in the lower abdomen. Sometimes nausea and vomiting occur. Later, pain may spread to the groin. The pain may continue if the stone is too large to pass; blood may appear in the urine and there may be the need to urinate more often or a burning sensation during urination. If fever and chills accompany any of these symptoms, an infection may be present and a doctor should be seen immediately.
Kidneys (Kidney, Renal)
Bean-shaped organs, each about the size of a fist. They are located near the middle of the back, just below the rib cage. The kidneys are sophisticated reprocessing machines, each day handling about 50 gallons of blood to sift out about half a gallon of waste products and extra water. The waste and extra water become urine, which flows to the bladder through tubes called ureters. The actual filtering occurs in tiny units inside the kidneys called nephrons. Every kidney has about a million nephrons. In a nephron, a glomerulus -- which is a tiny blood vessel, or capillary -- intertwines with a tiny urine-collecting tube called a tubule. A complicated chemical exchange takes place, as waste materials and water leave your blood and enter your urinary system. The kidneys recycle chemicals such as sodium, phosphorus, and potassium and thus regulate their levels. Renal: Pertaining to the kidneys.
Liver (Hepatic)
The largest and one of the most complex organs of the body, the liver is responsible for much of the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. It is the site of much of the body's detoxification. It is connected very closely with digestion and the regulation of blood sugar, among many other functions. Found behind the ribs on the right side of the abdomen, it has many important functions such as removing harmful material from the blood, making enzymes and bile that help digest food, and converting food into substances needed for life and growth. Hepatic: Pertaining to the liver.
Magnesium
An essential mineral. The chief function of magnesium is to activate certain enzymes, especially those related to carbohydrate metabolism. Another role is to maintain the electrical potential across nerve and muscle membranes. It is essential for proper heartbeat and nerve transmission. Magnesium controls many cellular functions. It is involved in protein formation, DNA production and function and in the storage and release of energy in ATP. Magnesium is closely related to calcium and phosphorus in body function. The average adult body contains approximately one ounce of magnesium. It is the fifth mineral in abundance within the body--behind calcium, phosphorus, potassium and sodium. Although about 70 percent of the body's magnesium is contained in the teeth and bones, its most important functions are carried out by the remainder which is present in the cells of the soft tissues and in the fluid surrounding those cells.
Metabolism (Metabolic, Metabolize, Metabolizes, Metabolizing)
The chemical processes of living cells in which energy is produced in order to replace and repair tissues and maintain a healthy body. Responsible for the production of energy, biosynthesis of important substances, and degradation of various compounds. Also defined as the sum total of changes in an organism in order to achieve a balance (homeostasis): Catabolic burns up, anabolic stores and builds up; the sum of their work is metabolism.
Mineral (Minerals)
Plays a vital role in regulating many body functions. They act as catalysts in nerve response, muscle contraction and the metabolism of nutrients in foods. They regulate electrolyte balance and hormonal production, and they strengthen skeletal structures.
Necrosis
Death of one or more cells, or of a portion of a tissue or organ.
Nervous System
A system in the body that is comprised of the brain, spinal cord, nerves, ganglia and parts of the receptor organs that receive and interpret stimuli and transmit impulses to effector organs.
Oliguria (Oliguric)
The condition of passing small amounts (under 500ml) of urine per day.
Potassium
A mineral that serves as an electrolyte and is involved in the balance of fluid within the body. Our bodies contain more than twice as much potassium as sodium (typically 9oz versus 4oz). About 98% of total body potassium is inside our cells. Potassium is the principal cation (positive ion) of the fluid within cells and is important in controlling the activity of the heart, muscles, nervous system and just about every cell in the body. Potassium regulates the water balance and acid-base balance in the blood and tissues. Evidence is showing that potassium is also involved in bone calcification. Potassium is a cofactor in many reactions, especially those involving energy production and muscle building.
Protein (Proteins)
Compounds composed of hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen present in the body and in foods that form complex combinations of amino acids. Protein is essential for life and is used for growth and repair. Foods that supply the body with protein include animal products, grains, legumes, and vegetables. Proteins from animal sources contain the essential amino acids. Proteins are changed to amino acids in the body.
Sodium
An essential mineral that our bodies regulate and conserve. Excess sodium retention increases the fluid volume (edema) and low sodium leads to less fluid and relative dehydration. The adult body averages a total content of over 100 grams of sodium, of which a surprising one-third is in bone. A small amount of sodium does get into cell interiors, but this represents only about ten percent of the body content. The remaining 57 percent or so of the body sodium content is in the fluid immediately surrounding the cells, where it is the major cation (positive ion). The role of sodium in the extracellular fluid is maintaining osmotic equilibrium (the proper difference in ions dissolved in the fluids inside and outside the cell) and extracellular fluid volume. Sodium is also involved in nerve impulse transmission, muscle tone and nutrient transport. All of these functions are interrelated with potassium.
Uric Acid (Hyperuricemia)
The final end product of certain native or dietary proteins, especially the nucleoproteins found in the nucleus of cells. Unlike the much smaller nitrogenous waste product urea, which is mostly recycled to form many amino acids, uric acid is an unrecycleable metabolite that must be excreted: nucleoprotein to purine to uric acid to the outside in the urine or the sweat. Hyperuricemia: Having elevated blood uric acid, either from a rapid rate of cell breakdown and synthesis (such as might occur from fasting, heavy training, trauma or any number of major diseases), a high consumption of organ meats, glandular supplements or spirulina, or the inability (usually hereditary) to excrete uric acid in the urine as fast as it is produced, even though production itself is not elevated.
Vitamin D
A fat-soluble vitamin essential to one's health. Regulates the amount of calcium and phosphorus in the blood by improving their absorption and utilization. Necessary for normal growth and formation of bones and teeth. For Vitamin D only, 1mcg translates to 40 IU.
Last updated: May 11, 2008
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