Care for Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

The management and care of kidney diseases is an extremely complex task that requires continuous medical monitoring. Regular doctor-patient meetings are essential not only for diagnosed patients but also for those who may potentially be affected. During medical control, there is an opportunity to continuously monitor the patient’s condition, which improves survival chances and the quality of life for patients.

Chronic kidney failure, which involves irreversible damage to kidney function, poses a serious problem. As a result of this disease, the kidneys are unable to adequately remove waste products from the blood, which can lead to severe health consequences. In nephrological care, patients typically receive “conservative treatment,” which includes medication therapy and lifestyle advice.

One of the most important aspects of treatment is blood pressure regulation. High blood pressure exacerbates kidney disease, so the goal is to keep blood pressure at or below 130/80 mmHg. Achieving this goal often requires a combination of several medications, which can only be effectively administered with the patient’s cooperation. Additionally, regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential, which patients can perform at home.

Treatment of Chronic Kidney Failure

The main goal of treating chronic kidney failure is to slow the progression of the disease. As part of the treatment plan, dietary recommendations are also prepared for patients, which help preserve kidney function. A low-protein diet may be particularly important for patients in advanced stages, as the breakdown of proteins places an increased burden on the kidneys. Based on the specialist’s decision, protein intake may be restricted to 0.8 g/kg of body weight per day, which means a daily intake of 48 g of protein for a 60 kg patient.

Furthermore, limiting phosphorus and potassium intake may also be essential if laboratory results show elevated levels. Kidney patients are generally advised to consume plenty of fluids, except for those who experience fluid retention. In such cases, reducing salt intake is also necessary, and individualized guidance regarding fluid intake should be sought from the treating physician.

Medication Management and Treatment of Comorbidities

Patients with chronic kidney failure often experience anemia, which is associated with decreased red blood cell production. If the cause of anemia is related to kidney disease, the problem can be treated with injections containing erythropoietin, which is essential for normal bone marrow function. Erythropoietin is an expensive medication, but in justified cases, social insurance usually provides the necessary quantity free of charge.

Monitoring cholesterol and triglyceride levels is also important in the treatment of kidney disease. Maintaining the balance of calcium and phosphorus metabolism is essential, as high phosphorus levels can adversely affect kidney function. It is important to inform patients that medication dosing should be appropriate, especially for those medications that are excreted through the kidneys.

Patient Education and Transplantation Options

It is essential for kidney patients to understand the treatment plan and the reasons for taking medications. During patient education, they receive important information about diet, necessary medical check-ups, as well as the options for dialysis and transplantation. During regular care, patients are prepared for dialysis if necessary, and we discuss which form of dialysis would be most beneficial for them.

During transplantation, a new organ is implanted that can replace kidney function. However, it may be necessary to continue dialysis after transplantation. The goal of care is for patients to enjoy the best possible quality of life and, if possible, avoid the need for dialysis. Successful kidney transplantation offers the best prospects for life, so it is important for patients eligible for future transplantation to apply for placement on the waiting list as soon as possible.

Summary

The treatment and care of kidney diseases is a complex task that requires thorough medical supervision and active participation from patients. Regular medical check-ups, appropriate diet, medication management, and patient education all contribute to slowing the progression of the disease and improving quality of life. The possibility of transplantation, along with proper management of dialysis, helps patients enjoy the best possible quality of life despite their illness.