CHRONIC RENAL FAILURE

What is it?

Your kidneys are vital in many ways. They make sure that you do not become overloaded with water and help stop you getting dehydrated. They keep the levels of salts steady in your body so that all the other parts of your body can work properly. They flush out chemicals and poisons. They also get rid of a lot of waste produced by your body that would poison you if it built up too high. If your kidneys stop working it is known as renal failure or kidney failure. Sometimes in acute renal failure this happens suddenly. In chronic renal failure your kidneys gradually work less and less effectively.

What causes it?

Chronic renal failure is usually caused by your kidneys getting damaged - by infection or inflammation. If you have a condition called polycystic kidneys, which runs in families, your kidneys become full of cysts which stop them from working efficiently.

Who gets it?

Chronic renal failure sometimes runs in families. You may be more prone to it if you have had severe infections affecting your kidneys (this is not the same as cystitis which only affects your bladder). Your kidneys can also be affected by autoimmune diseases where your body attacks itself.

What are the symptoms?

You may feel generally and very gradually tired and under the weather. At quite an early stage you will probably start getting up at night to pass water, feeling itchy and, if you are a man, being impotent. Later you may get thirsty all the time feel breathless and get swelling of your legs or numbness over parts of your body. If it is not picked up early kidney failure can go on to make you drowsy and confused or even to have fits.

When should I go to my GP?

Everyone feels tired from time to time. But if the tiredness persists or gets worse make an appointment with your GP. Likewise, there is usually an innocent explanation for itchiness but if it persists see your GP. He or she will usually be able to reassure you. It is worth making an appointment straight away if you get problems with your waterworks such as burning or passing water more often and especially at night.

What tests will my Doctor want to do?

Your doctor will probably do a urine test and some blood tests. He or she may organise a special X-ray of your kidneys. If your doctor suspects a real problem he or she will refer you to hospital.

What is the treatment?

This depends on what has caused your kidneys to stop working properly and how badly they are affected. You may have to have dialysis which allows a machine to clean your blood.

Will I need long-term treatment?

You will certainly need to be followed up carefully at the hospital, probably for life. Again, long-term treatment will depend on how badly your kidneys are damaged. It is possible that eventually you might need a kidney transplant.

How can I stop it getting worse?

You must never take medicines unless you know they are not dangerous in your condition - you should avoid over-the-counter drugs unless you have been told by your GP they are safe. You may need a diet cutting down on salt and protein. It is important to attend any appointments. You are the one with the condition so it is important that you know about it. If you have any questions ask your doctor at the hospital or your GP.