The Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore marked World Kidney Day this year by raising public awareness about Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD ).
CKD is a progressive condition that affects more than 10 percent of the general population worldwide, amounting to over 800 million individuals. It is estimated that at least one in 10 individuals of the general population have some degree of kidney impairment and have substantially increased risk for death, even prior to developing End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD ). Due to its silent nature, the diagnosis of CKD is often delayed or unexpected and leaves the patient vulnerable to other medical complications.
Eoin Bergin, Consultant Nephrologist in MRHT, stated that kidney disease is a silent illness with no symptoms until extensive kidney damage has occurred.
“Kidney disease also causes high blood pressure and heart problems and is a complication of other illnesses like diabetes. Approximately 10% of adults in Ireland have kidney disease, but most are unaware of this and are not diagnosed. Kidney disease is easily detected however with a blood and urine test and can be treated, particularly if found early,” Dr Bergin commented.
What can you do to protect your kidneys?
· Avoiding medications known to damage the kidney such as certain painkillers (known as NSAIDS - Ibuprofen, naproxen diclofenac etc. )
· Know your blood pressure and blood sugar, diabetes and hypertension is the leading causes of kidney disease. Contact your doctor for treatment of cardiovascular, high blood pressure and diabetes.
· Check your urine for protein, a simple urine test when you see your doctor. Protein in your urine is a very important marker for kidney disease development and progression. You may need medication to treat this.
· Kidney disease risk factors can be modified with lifestyle changes
Your doctor can advise you on how to control CKD with interventions that include early check-ups, blood pressure monitoring and blood sugar control as well as management of associated diseases such as heart disease. World Kidney Day encourages everyone worldwide to not only be aware of the disease but to actively get involved in their health and wellbeing.
Sani George, Advance Nurse Practitioner in CKD in the Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore noted that adjusting to a diagnosis of CKD can be an overwhelming experience.
“Patients may feel overwhelmed by waves of difficult emotions or the feeling that they will never be able to cope. In order to support and guide these patients to find a way to navigate their renal journey, the Department of Nephrology at MRHT organise patient information evenings annually,” Ms George remarked.
The focus of the most recent event was “Be an active participant in your Kidney Care: Things you need to know”. This event was very successful and included talks from consultants, specialist nurses and renal dietitians.
The highlight of the event was the life journey of Briona Reynolds a former dialysis and a transplant patient and her kidney donor (now her husband ) Shane Hunter.
“The information evenings along with regular clinic visits will ensure, patients are well informed about their condition, treatment options and how to live well with End Stage Kidney Disease. We hope to run further events soon,” Ms George concluded.
