Diagnosis of Kidney Diseases

High risk for kidney problems

The old saying “A stitch in time saves nine” holds true for the treatment of kidney diseases. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is not curable and if not treated can lead to end stage kidney disease (ESKD). As discussed in the previous chapter, a person with CKD can be asymptomatic, i.e. no symptoms of the disease may be apparent. However if diagnosis of kidney disease is made early, appropriate medical treatment can be rendered and progression to ESKD can be delayed or slowed. So whenever a kidney problem is even suspected, it is advisable to go for immediate check up and early diagnosis.

Who should get their kidneys checked? Who is at high risk for developing kidney problems?

Anyone can develop a kidney problem, but the risk is higher in the presence of :

• Symptoms of kidney disease
• Diabetes
• Difficult to control hypertension
• Family history of kidney disease, diabetes and hypertension
• Chronic tobacco consumption, obesity and/or elderly (above 60 years)
• Chronic intake of pain relievers, e.g., nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, naproxen
• Congenital defect of urinary tract

Screening in such high risk individuals helps in early detection and diagnosis of kidney disease.