Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic Kidney Disease services offered in Downtown, Wilmington, NC

Did you know that more than 37 million American adults may be living with chronic kidney disease? For those in and around Wilmington, North Carolina, help is available through the care of Umar Bowers, MD, Tiffany Bowers, FNP-C, Caitlin Jacobs, FNP-C, and Sandy Taylor, FNP-C, of Dawson Med. Booking a visit is a fast and easy process using the online booking page or over the phone.

Chronic Kidney Disease Q&A

What is chronic kidney disease?

Your kidneys work to filter waste and extra water from your system, and they also balance the minerals and salts that circulate within your blood. Kidneys also manufacture hormones that help regulate your blood sugar, keep your bone tissue strong, and create red blood cells.

Once kidney disease progresses to kidney failure, the only way you can remain healthy is through dialysis or a kidney transplant. Chronic kidney disease develops gradually over a long period of time. As kidney damage develops, waste materials can build up in your body.

Older people have a higher risk of developing kidney disease, as do people who have other chronic health problems like diabetes, heart disease, or hypertension.

What are some symptoms of kidney disease?

Knowing what to look for can help you know when to seek treatment for kidney disease. It’s important to understand, however, that kidney problems can become quite serious before you begin to notice symptoms, which is why coming in for routine physicals and lab testing is a critical part of staying healthy.

When symptoms are present, they might include:

Chest pain
Nausea
Weight loss
Headaches
Dry skin
Muscle cramps
Fatigue
Changes in urination habits
Sleep disruption

If you notice these or other changes, schedule an appointment for a diagnostic exam. The earlier you detect kidney disease, the easier it is to improve the condition.

How is chronic kidney disease treated?

Your treatment plan depends on a number of different factors, including the cause of kidney disease and your overall health. In some cases, treating the underlying cause is the best way to improve your kidney health.

There are numerous medications that can help treat chronic kidney disease. Some drugs improve blood pressure, while others help with diabetes, anemia, swelling, cholesterol, and bone health.

Some people find that a low-protein diet is a good way to manage chronic kidney disease. Less protein reduces the amount of work your kidneys do to eliminate waste products.

Advanced kidney disease sometimes requires a treatment called dialysis. This approach involves coming in for a procedure that uses a special machine to remove excess fluids and waste products from your body.

If you’re ready to learn more, call the office to schedule a visit, or spend a few moments on the online booking page to find a time that fits your busy schedule.