The gradual loss of kidney function is called chronic kidney disease or failure. When this occurs, a patient’s kidneys are damaged and left unable to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood that are normally emitted through urine. As a result, dangerous levels of waste and fluid to build up in the body.
- Decreased urine output or no urine output
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Sleep problems
- Fatigue and weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle twitches and cramps
- Swelling of the feet and ankles
- Persistent itching
- Decreased mental sharpness
There is no cure for chronic kidney disease: “The disease is asymptomatic until it is fairly advanced. Early diagnosis can potentially facilitate interventions to delay progression,” said Dr. Amuluru. “When left untreated, kidney failure can occur, making dialysis or a kidney transplant necessary.”
Dr. Amurulu is part of the Nephrology and Hypertension Department at McFarland Clinic, located at the Medical Arts Building at the main McFarland campus in Ames, IA. The nephrology team also offers outreach to five additional communities: Boone, Carroll, Iowa Falls, Marshalltown and Webster City.
Learn more about chronic kidney disease and related topics through our online health library:
