Ageing and Kidney Function: How to Manage Kidney Disease in the Elderly

 As we age, our bodies go through changes, and one of those changes is a decline in kidney function. In addition to keeping a healthy balance of electrolytes and managing blood pressure, our kidneys are in charge of filtering waste products and extra fluid from our blood. Unfortunately, as we age, our kidneys might not be as effective at carrying out these vital functions as they once were, making us more susceptible to renal disease, says the experts at Dr. LH Hiranandani Hospital Kidney Transplant. The prevalence of renal disease among the elderly is a growing concern, and if left unaddressed, it can have serious negative effects. We'll look at the causes, signs, and potential treatments for renal disease in the elderly in this post.

 Understanding kidney disease in the Elderly

Simply defined kidney disease is a condition where the kidneys are damaged and cannot filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood effectively. There are various kidney illnesses, some of which are more prevalent in the elderly. More than 50% of adults over the age of 70 have chronic kidney disease (CKD), one of the most common kidney disorders in the elderly. If CKD is not treated, it can worsen and eventually cause renal failure, making dialysis or a kidney transplant necessary. Nephrotic syndrome, glomerulonephritis, and acute kidney injury (AKI) are other prevalent kidney conditions affecting the elderly.

 Common kidney diseases in the elderly

CKD- CKD is a common kidney disease in the elderly, as previously stated. It can take years for symptoms to appear due to the condition's progressive nature. CKD is described by a continuous decrease in kidney capability, and it tends to be brought about by a few elements, including hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular illness. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is one more typical kidney disease in the old, and it can be brought about by a few elements, including dehydration, infections, and medication side effects. AKI is a severe and sudden loss of kidney function that necessitates prompt medical attention.

 Glomerulonephritis- It is a form of kidney disease that affects the glomeruli, which are the kidneys' tiny blood vessels that remove waste products and excess fluids from the blood. Glomerulonephritis can be brought about by a few elements, including contaminations, immune system sicknesses, and hereditary problems.

 Nephrotic disorder- As per the doctors at the Hiranandani Hospital Kidney Care, It is another kind of kidney disease that can influence the elderly. It is characterized by edema
, high cholesterol levels, and the presence of protein in the urine. Diabetes, lupus, and certain medications are among the many factors that can result in nephrotic syndrome.

 Symptoms and Diagnosis of kidney disease in the Elderly

When an elderly person has kidney disease, the symptoms can be subtle and nonspecific, making early diagnosis challenging. Elderly people with renal disease frequently experience weariness, weakness, appetite loss, nausea, and oedema in their legs and feet. Additional symptoms, such as high blood pressure, anaemia, and bone disease, could develop as the condition worsens. Doctors may do a number of tests, including blood, urine, imaging, and kidney biopsy, to detect renal disease in the elderly.

 Causes of kidney disease in the Elderly

 Age-related changes in the kidneys: As we age, our kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste from our bodies effectively, which can lead to a decline in kidney function.

 Underlying health conditions: High blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease can damage the kidneys and increase the risk of kidney disease in the elderly.

 Medications: Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and some antibiotics, can cause kidney damage in the elderly.

 Dehydration: Elderly people are more prone to dehydration due to a reduced sense of thirst, which can cause kidney damage.

Urinary tract infections: These infections can spread to the kidneys and cause kidney damage in the elderly.

 Obstructive disorders: Conditions such as kidney stones, tumours, or enlarged prostate gland can obstruct the flow of urine and lead to kidney damage.

 Genetic factors: Some genetic factors can make the elderly more susceptible to kidney disease.

Managing kidney disease in the elderly

Elderly kidney disease can be controlled with a mix of lifestyle changes, medication, and medical procedures. The treatment plan will be determined by the condition's severity and underlying cause. A nutritious diet, drinking enough water, and engaging in regular exercise can all assist to enhance kidney function and stop additional damage. The course of kidney disease can be slowed down by medications like angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), which can help regulate blood pressure. Dialysis or a kidney transplant may be required in extreme circumstances.

          i) Lifestyle changes to improve kidney function- Making lifestyle changes can play a crucial role in managing kidney disease in the elderly, says kidney experts at the Hiranandani Hospital. Some of the lifestyle changes that can help improve kidney function include maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking. A healthy diet for people with kidney disease should be low in salt, phosphorus, and potassium, and high in protein. Staying hydrated is also essential for kidney health, as it helps the kidneys flush out waste products and excess fluids from the body. Drinking enough water can also help prevent dehydration, which can cause kidney damage. Regular exercise can also help improve kidney function by reducing blood pressure and promoting overall health. Quitting smoking can also help improve kidney function, as smoking can damage blood vessels and decrease blood flow to the kidneys.

 

         ii) Medications for kidney disease in the elderly- Medications can be prescribed to people with kidney disease to control blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and manage other health conditions. ACE inhibitors and ARBs are commonly prescribed to people with kidney disease, as they can help control blood pressure and slow down the progression of kidney disease. Other medications that can be prescribed include diuretics, which help the body get rid of excess fluids, and phosphate binders, which help control phosphorus levels in the blood.

 

        iii) Dialysis and kidney transplant options for the elderly- In serious cases of kidney disease, dialysis or kidney transplant may become essential. When the kidneys are unable to function properly, a medical procedure known as dialysis assists in the removal of excess fluids and waste products from the body. Dialysis is one of two types: peritoneal and hemodialysis treatments. Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdomen to filter the blood, whereas hemodialysis uses a machine to filter the blood outside the body.

For those with severe kidney disease, a kidney transplant is another option. A kidney transplant is when a healthy kidney from a donor is used to replace a diseased kidney. A major surgery called a kidney transplant necessitates lifelong medication to stop the body from rejecting the new kidney. Nonetheless, it can fundamentally improve the quality of life and satisfaction of individuals with kidney infections.

 In conclusion, kidney disease is a common issue for the elderly, with chronic kidney disease being one of the most common kidney conditions among this age group. However, kidney function can be improved and further damage prevented with proper management through lifestyle changes, medication, and medical interventions. This means living a healthy lifestyle, drinking enough water, keeping track of your medications, and going to the doctor right away if the need arises. As a result, it is essential to educate the elderly about kidney disease and the significance of early detection and treatment. The elderly population with kidney disease can have a better life and the prevalence of renal disease reduced with healthcare professionals, caregivers, and individuals working together. Reach out to the doctors at the Hiranandani Hospital Powai news to get the best quality Treatment and Kidney Care.