Are my kidney problems curable? Whilst such problems are not usually curable, the earlier the kidney problem is found, the better the opportunity to slow or stop any further damage occurring. More importantly, your involvement with your kidney care can have a significant impact on slowing damage and preserving your kidney function.
Will my kidney problem have serious long- term effects? This depends on your age, other health problems and how serious the problems with your kidneys are. In addition, it depends on how involved you become in your care. For people whose kidneys continue to get worse, your doctor or nurse should suggest that you review your lifestyle (weight, diet, exercise level, smoking). This is very important because people with kidney disease are also at increased risk of heart disease. In some people, tablets (e.g. for raised blood pressure) will be recommended. An important factor is how involved you become with managing the kidney problem. We sometimes call this self-management – working together with your doctor and nurse to help control the kidney damage. Of course your partner/or other family members can be a part of this support should they wish to be. Research shows that people who become partners in their care live longer. So, ask questions, and explore with your doctor and care team the best way for you to help yourself manage your disease.
08
What can be done to prevent kidney problems developing? Look after your heart and circulation, don’t smoke and avoid getting overweight. Ask your GP about the need for regular monitoring of blood pressure and cholesterol. If you have diabetes, then ensure that your blood pressure, sugar control, cholesterol and urine are regularly checked to make sure they are within the recommended ranges. It is also important that your kidney function is checked out with regular blood and urine testing at your GP surgery. Also make sure that your blood pressure is checked regularly and you have regular blood and urine tests if you are on treatment for high blood pressure. If you have prescribed tablets for your blood pressure and you have any side effects, then report them to a healthcare professional and make sure you take the new medication as prescribed. If you smoke, seek advice on how to give up. Consider asking for help from your doctor or nurse. They can often help direct you to appropriate self-management programmes, additional information resources and support groups.