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Primary Care for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Management
Chronic Kidney Disease Treatment
AllCare provides comprehensive chronic kidney disease management, from early diagnosis and testing to ongoing care for symptoms, complications, and medications. Our team of primary care physicians is experienced in every aspect of chronic kidney disease and is committed to creating a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs.
Chronic Kidney Disease Treatment in Urgent Care
Our Approach to Managing Chronic Kidney Disease
Your kidneys are responsible for filtering waste and excess fluids from your blood, which are then excreted through urine. In the case of chronic kidney disease (CKD), your kidneys gradually decline in function. As the disease progresses, it can lead to dangerous buildups of waste, fluid, and electrolytes in the body.
At AllCare, our primary goal is to slow the progression of chronic kidney disease by managing the underlying cause. We provide a comprehensive, compassionate approach to help individuals diagnosed with chronic kidney disease. Our experienced healthcare professionals understand the unique challenges of managing chronic kidney disease and work closely with patients to develop individualized treatment plans. Through a multi-disciplinary approach, our team collaborates to manage diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and other factors that may affect your chronic kidney disease, helping patients live a full and rewarding life.
What is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a long-term condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste, toxins, and excess fluids from the blood. Over time, this reduced kidney function can lead to a buildup of harmful substances in the body, potentially causing health complications.
Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease
In the early stages of chronic kidney disease, symptoms may be mild or even unnoticeable. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control estimates that over 37 million Americans are unaware they have chronic kidney disease. However, if left unchecked, CKD can eventually lead to end-stage kidney failure, which is life-threatening without interventions like dialysis or a kidney transplant.
- Stage 1: Kidney damage with normal or increased glomerular filtration rate (GFR)
- Stage 2: Kidney damage with mild decreased GFR
- Stage 3: Moderate decreased GFR
- Stage 4: Severe increased GFR
- Stage 5: Kidney failure
Chronic Kidney Disease Tests & Treatments
Chronic Kidney Disease Medications
Complications of kidney disease can be controlled with medications, including high blood pressure medications, diuretics, cholesterol medicines, medications that treat anemia, and supplements or medications that help protect your bones.
Blood Tests
These tests measure creatinine levels, a waste product in the blood, and calculate the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), an indicator of healthy kidney function. An eGFR above 90 milliliters per minute is considered normal.
Specialist Referral
Depending on how advanced your disease is, we may refer you to a chronic kidney disease specialist, known as a nephrologist, for additional treatment options if necessary.
Kidney Imaging Tests
A CT scan uses X-ray technology to capture detailed images of the kidneys, while an ultrasound employs sound waves to create visual representations of the kidneys and surrounding structures.
What Are the Common Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease?
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) often develops gradually, and early stages may not show noticeable symptoms. As the condition progresses, chronic kidney disease symptoms become more apparent and can include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Swelling (Edema
- Changes in urination:
- Increased or decreased frequency
- Foamy or bubbly urine (due to protein leakage)
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent itching skin
- Loss of appetite and nausea
- Difficulty concentrating
- High blood pressure
- Metallic taste in mouth
- Cramping or muscle twitching
Online Doctor Visits and Telehealth Services
Experience the convenience of telehealth appointments at AllCare. Our telemedicine services are designed to provide you with seamless access to healthcare without the need to leave your home. Whether you need an online doctor’s appointment for immediate or primary care, AllCare’s got you covered. With our online telehealth services currently available to individuals located in Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Georgia, you can connect with our experienced urgent and primary care physicians via secure video calls.
At AllCare, we are expanding our virtual healthcare access to all services previously offered in person. This includes:
- Online Primary Care
- Online Urgent Care
- Online Women’s Healthcare
- Online Men’s Healthcare
- Online COIVD-19 Treatment
- Online Behavioral Health
- And more!
Who Can Benefit from Chronic Kidney Disease Management?
Early detection of chronic kidney disease is important to help you manage and possibly prevent other health complications. Anyone who currently has underlying health conditions or is experiencing symptoms of reduced kidney function should schedule an appointment with their physician. Below are some people who can benefit from chronic kidney disease management:
- Anyone who has been diagnosed with kidney disease and is currently undergoing treatment
- People who have diabetes, as that is a known risk factor for chronic kidney disease
- Those who have high blood pressure
- Anyone with heart disease
- People who have experienced sudden damage to the kidneys
- Those who have swelling in their hands or feet due to water retention
Frequently Asked Questions About Chronic Kidney Management
01 Does chronic kidney disease cause low platelets?
Yes, chronic kidney disease (CKD) can lead to low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) due to several factors, including reduced production of the hormone erythropoietin, which supports platelet function, and toxin buildup in the blood. These issues can impair the bone marrow’s ability to produce platelets and affect platelet function, increasing the risk of bleeding.
02 How to treat chronic kidney disease?
Treatment for chronic kidney disease (CKD) focuses on slowing its progression, managing symptoms, and addressing complications. Lifestyle modifications, such as following a kidney-friendly diet low in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, controlling blood pressure through regular exercise and a low-salt diet, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, play a crucial role. Medications, including ACE inhibitors or ARBs for blood pressure management, medications to control blood sugar levels in diabetes patients, and phosphate binders or calcium supplements to address mineral imbalances, are often prescribed. In advanced stages, dialysis or a kidney transplant becomes necessary when kidney function is severely impaired. Regular checkups are also essential to monitor kidney function and electrolyte levels, ensuring effective disease management.
03 Is chronic kidney disease hereditary?
In some cases, CKD can be hereditary. Conditions like polycystic kidney disease (PKD), Alport syndrome, or other genetic disorders can increase the risk. However, lifestyle factors and other medical conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension, are more common causes of CKD.
04 How fast does chronic kidney disease progress?
The progression of CKD varies depending on its underlying cause, the stage of diagnosis, and the patient’s management of the condition. Factors influencing progression speed include:
- Poorly controlled diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Persistent proteinuria (excess protein in urine).
- Smoking and unhealthy lifestyle choices.
CKD progression can be slowed through proper treatment and lifestyle modifications, but severe cases may advance to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) requiring dialysis or a transplant.
05 Can chronic kidney disease be cured?
There is no cure for CKD, but it can be managed effectively. Early detection and treatment can slow its progression and reduce the risk of complications. Patients with ESRD may require dialysis or a kidney transplant to maintain life.
STATES WHERE WE SERVE PRIMARY AND URGENT CARE
Chronic Kidney Disease Management in Georgia, Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C.
At AllCare, we’re proud to deliver exceptional primary and urgent care to residents across Virginia, Maryland, Washington D.C., and Georgia. From bustling city centers to serene suburban neighborhoods, our clinics are strategically placed for your convenience and care. Experience top-tier chronic kidney disease management in your community with AllCare, where your health is our priority.
Prioritize your health today: schedule your chronic kidney disease diagnosis appointment
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