Chronic Kidney Disease

Signature Health Services can help with the management and treatment of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).

Chronic Kidney Disease and how we care for it

What is Chronic Kidney Disease?

Chronic Kidney Disease refers to the gradual loss of the kidneys function. This results in them being unable to filter blood as they are needed to. This damage can result in an escalating waste buildup in the body and cause other serious harm to your health.

Some statistics and facts

Did you know that almost 1 in 7 people (or 37 million people in more precise numbers) in the U.S. are diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD)? Even more shocking, as many as 9 in 10 people aren’t aware that they have CKD.

What are some of the reasons why many adults have CKD? A significant cause is that almost 1 in 2 adults in the United States (108 million people) have high blood pressure. We know that high blood pressure brings many diseases and conditions, and it is the second most significant cause of kidney collapse in the United States, behind diabetes. So if you have diabetes or high blood pressure, you have a greater chance of developing kidney disease.

What are the symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease?

The signs and symptoms of chronic kidney disease develop over time as this disease is gradual. Some of the symptoms include blood in urine, sudden weight loss, nausea, poor appetite, fatigue, insomnia, muscle cramps and weakness, hand and feet swelling, and poor appetite.

Is there a cure or treatment for Chronic Kidney Disease?

Often, chronic kidney disease has no cure but there are treatments that have proven to help patients living with this condition. Treatments include medication, changes to diet and lifestyle, dialysis, or in serious cases kidney transplant.

What you need to know about the kidneys

March is also known as National Kidney Month. It is a perfect opportunity to bring awareness about kidney health and encourage individuals, organizations, and authorities to support kidney disease research.

The kidneys' function and anatomy

The anatomy of the kidneys relies on two principal characteristics: bean-shaped organs and about the size of a fist. The kidneys’ essential function is to filter extra water and waste from your blood through urine.

Kidney disease means kidney damage. This damage can vary in severity and provoke kidneys that can’t filter blood as they should. If you are diagnosed with kidney failure or other conditions like acute kidney injury, cysts, kidney stones, and kidney infections, the most effective treatments and long-term solutions include kidney transplant, dialysis, or medication.

Building paths to better kidney care

Innovative and dedicated institutes, like The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, allow us different approaches to acknowledging, treating, and preventing kidney diseases and conditions. Talented investigators are looking for more personalized solutions to provide better kidney care. By identifying the latest treatments targeted to each person’s needs, type of disease, environment, and lifestyle, they can do that.

At Signature Health Services, we can create a customized treatment plan for each patient suffering from kidney disease.
We want to share with you three ways you can contribute to the path to better kidney care:

Actively participate in your care. Work with your healthcare team and be completely honest to create a treatment plan that complements your lifestyle, mobility, health, and dietary needs.
Follow your care plan thoroughly. It is vital to take all your prescribed medications and stay up to date on vaccines in time and manner.
Infectious diseases like COVID-19 and flu vaccines are crucial for people with kidney disease, who may be more likely to have complications or a more severe case from COVID-19 or the flu.
Implement a kidney-healthy lifestyle. Incorporate progressively healthy habits into your daily schedule. Includes healthy and nutrient-rich foods and beverages, 30 minutes of physical activity (for example: walking or taking the stairs) to stay active, and regular sleep with at least 7 to 9 hours of rest.

How to observe National Kidney Month?

Join and register as an organ donor.
Attend or host fundraising events.
Donate to a kidney-related organization.
Learn more about your kidney’s condition and health.

How can Signature help with Chronic Kidney Disease treatment?

Skilled nurses at Signature Health services provide post-operative patients with specific information about drinking/eating, caring for drainage tubes, skin and wound care, ambulation, self-care, and signs and symptoms that require medical attention. Nursing care includes written information and demonstrations of such activities as care of the wounds and drains.

During the postoperative or chronic care period, our nurses serve as a source of information and a monitor of patient progress. Follow-up calls and visits to patients and families after surgery are essential in determining the welfare of the patient, offering suggestions for managing the patient’s care, and learning if any complications are developing. At the same time, Signature’s nurses can assess the psychological condition of the patient and his or her adjustment to a new way of living and suggest any needed resources.

We care about your kidneys because we know how vital these organs are for the overall health condition of the individuals. So please, feel free to call us about any health concerns. We will be happy to partner with your doctor or physician.

For more information on how Signature Health Services can help with your healthcare needs, please call 1 (800) 277-8291 (option 1) or email information@signaturehealthservices.net.