Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Kidneys are involved in clearing the metabolic waste from the blood, red blood cell production, maintaining electrolyte balance, and regulate blood pressure. Failure of kidneys in performing their function leads to several illnesses. Symptoms of kidney failure are not obvious until 2/3rd of kidneys have already been damaged. The obvious sign of chronic renal failure is excessive thirst and frequent urination with increased volume of urine. CKD is diagnosed incidentally by blood tests during routine health checkups. Loss of appetite, weight loss, poor hair coat, anemia, and vomiting are the signs of chronic kidney failure which get worse over time. The damage to the kidneys is permanent and treatment is only focused on slowing down the progression of the disease and improving the quality of life. Treatment maintains the electrolyte balance, blood pressure, RBC count, and appetite. Nutritional supplements replace lost vitamins and minerals.