Chronic kidney disease (CKD), also known as chronic renal failure, involves the gradual loss of kidney function. The kidneys filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood, which are then excreted in the urine. Advanced CKD can lead to dangerous buildup of fluids and toxic substances such as urea, creatinine, and other waste products in the body. Patients in the early or intermediate stages may show few signs or symptoms, and many may not realize they have kidney disease until the condition has significantly progressed. Treatment focuses on slowing the progression of kidney damage, usually by controlling the underlying cause. However, even with proper management, kidney damage may continue to worsen. CKD may eventually progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), which can be fatal without dialysis or a kidney transplant. Symptoms Patients may experience: Nausea and vomiting Loss of appetite, fatigue, and weakness Increased or decreased urination Reduced mental sharpness Painful muscle cramps Swelling in the feet and ankles High blood pressure that is difficult to control Shortness of breath due to fluid accumulation in the lungs Causes of Chronic Kidney Failure CKD occurs when a disease or condition impairs kidney function over months or years. Causes include: Type 1 or type 2 diabetes High blood pressure Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units) Polycystic kidney disease or other hereditary disorders Long-term urinary tract obstruction from enlarged prostate, kidney stones, or certain cancers Recurrent kidney infections (pyelonephritis) Complications CKD affects nearly every part of the body. Possible complications include: Fluid retention causing swelling in the arms and legs, high blood pressure, or fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema) Sudden rise in blood potassium levels (hyperkalemia), potentially life-threatening Anemia and heart disease Bone weakness and increased risk of fractures Reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, or infertility Central nervous system damage, including poor concentration, personality changes, or seizures Weakened immune response, increasing infection risk Pericarditis (inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart) Life-threatening pregnancy complications Irreversible kidney damage (end-stage renal disease), requiring dialysis or kidney transplant CKD is a long-term illness that affects the patient’s emotional, cognitive, psychological, and social well-being. Ignoring these aspects can negatively impact the patient’s overall health and ability to perform daily roles. Patients with CKD must modify daily habits and dietary behaviors to slow disease progression. Certain foods can strain the kidneys and worsen their condition. Dietary adjustments should align with the disease stage and aim to reassure patients that CKD can be managed with proper medical guidance. In advanced stages, however, the illness may be fatal without dialysis or transplantation. Without treatment, survival may be limited to days or weeks, whereas patients on dialysis typically live 5–10 years on average. Dialysis is essential to remove waste products and excess fluids. Patients may need to visit the hospital multiple times a week, along with following strict dietary and lifestyle guidelines. Important Recommendations for Patients Undergoing Dialysis People receiving dialysis can live normal, fulfilling lives with certain adjustments: 1. Commitment to Dialysis Schedule Strict adherence to dialysis sessions is crucial; skipping treatments can lead to serious complications and worsening health. 2. Monitoring Fluid Intake Patients must limit fluid consumption to prevent dangerous fluid buildup between sessions, which can cause swelling and high blood pressure. 3. Following a Kidney-Friendly Diet Working with a dietitian helps design an appropriate diet that typically limits sodium, phosphorus, and potassium, while ensuring adequate protein and calories. 4. Taking Medications as Prescribed Medications must be taken exactly as directed. These may include drugs for blood pressure management, phosphate control, and other conditions. 5. Physical Activity Regular exercise, as recommended by the doctor, improves overall health and helps manage conditions common in CKD patients, such as hypertension and diabetes. 6. Blood Pressure Monitoring Controlling blood pressure is essential to prevent further kidney damage. 7. Stress Management Living with a chronic disease can be stressful. Relaxation techniques, hobbies, and physical activity can improve quality of life. 8. Education and Awareness Understanding the disease empowers patients to make informed decisions and stay updated on advancements in kidney care. 9. Proper Hygiene Good hygiene, especially handwashing and catheter care, is vital to prevent dialysis-related infections. Al-Mustaqbal University – The First University in Iraq
  الهدف الثالث من اهداف التنمية المستدامة -الصحة الجيدة والرفاه   The Third Goal of the Sustainable Development Goals – Good Health and Well-being