World Kidney Day 2025: Experts Share Key Facts on Kidney Health, Causes & Treatment
Kidney health is essential for overall well-being. On the occasion of World Kidney Day 2025, experts share key facts and advice to help reduce the risk of kidney disease.
How Diabetes Affects Kidneys
High blood sugar damages kidney blood vessels, causing protein leaks (albuminuria) and leading to CKD or kidney failure. Managing diabetes prevents kidney damage—Nephrologist Dr. Prakash Khetan.
What is Kidney Failure (ESRD—End-Stage Renal Disease)
ESRD (End-Stage Renal Disease) occurs when the kidneys stop functioning. Symptoms include fatigue, swelling, breathlessness, nausea, and confusion. Dialysis or a transplant may be required—Nephrologist Dr. Nishant Deshpandey.
Early Kidney Disease Tests
Key tests include the urine albumin test (detects protein leakage), serum creatinine test (measures waste levels), GFR (assesses kidney function), urinalysis, and imaging tests to detect structural abnormalities. Early testing helps slow disease progression—Nephrologist Dr. Vikram Kalra.
Signs of CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease)
Early symptoms include fatigue, swelling, urination changes, breathlessness, nausea, high BP, itchy skin, and sleep issues. Regular check-ups aid early detection—Nephrologist Dr. Ranjan Sarkar.
Diet for Kidney Disease
A renal diet includes balanced protein, low sodium, limited potassium & phosphorus, and proper hydration. A healthy diet slows kidney disease—Nephrologist Dr. Dilip Pahari.
Stages of CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease)
CKD (chronic kidney disease) progresses in five stages. Early stages have mild damage, while Stage 5 means kidney failure, requiring dialysis or transplant. Early detection can slow CKD—Nephrologist Dr. Vishal Saxena.
Serum Creatinine & Kidney Health
Serum creatinine measures kidney function. High levels may indicate CKD, AKI, or drug toxicity, while low levels suggest muscle loss. Monitoring creatinine is crucial—Nephrologist Dr. Manish Malik.
Who Needs Kidney Screening?
Diabetics, hypertension, heart disease, obesity, family history, and age >60 need regular screening. Early screening prevents kidney disease—Nephrologist Dr. Krishna Patil.
Medications for Kidney Disease
ACE inhibitors, ARBs, SGLT2 inhibitors, diuretics, phosphate binders, and ESAs help manage symptoms and slow progression. Proper medication prevents further damage—Nephrologist Dr.M Sivalingam.
Diabetes & Kidney Disease Link
Diabetes is the leading cause of CKD, affecting 1 in 3 adults with diabetes. High blood sugar gradually damages the kidneys, making regular screening and good blood sugar control essential to prevent complications—Nephrologist Dr. C. Aravind.
Regular check-ups, a healthy diet, and proper medication help manage kidney disease. Raising awareness this World Kidney Day can save lives.