Chronic renal failure or CRF is a condition that proceeds chronic kidney disease, which is a grave medical condition that gradually destroys the kidneys. When a person is inflicted with kidney disease he or she is at a heightened risk of other circulatory problems inclusive of multiple kinds of cardiovascular disease. As kidney disease progresses over time it will trigger irreversible damage to renal tissue that gradually leads to a decrease in total kidney functioning. Since February 2002 a formal classification of the different stages that occur as a result of kidney disease has been published. It details the extent of damages in relation to the specified stage of the disease.
Stage 1: Kidney Functions regularly but sign of underlying problem is evident in urine along with a few other irregularities that will denote probable kidney disease. GFR (90+)
Stage 2: Kidney function is impaired slightly, at this stage the disease is categorized as mild with the potential for progressive deterioration GFR (60-89)
Stage 3: Kidney function is moderately reduced GFR (30-59)
Stage 4: Kidney function is severely impaired and borders on renal failure GFR (15-29)
Stage 5: Kidney function has completely diminished, will not function effectively on its own without medical treatment. This is end stage kidney failure or established renal failure (GFR below 15)
The earlier stages of kidney disease specifically stage one and two, the GFR will not be the only method of diagnosis as this will be insufficient because of its limitations in determining the disease in its starting stages. Other anomalies will have to be apparent, in addition to further screening methods that will be used to conclude diagnosis. Tests will be inclusive of a blood test and an imaging test.
When a person is thought to have endstage kidney disease or chronic renal failure then he or she will need intensive medical care. It is possible to suffer from the disease and remain quite well, however, it will inextricably cause the kidneys to shut down sooner or later. The main objective of a proper diagnostic system and treatment is to prevent it from deteriorating. While the disease is not reversible, there are procedures that can be implemented to slow or stop the progression of the disease.
The problem with renal disease is that it can stay comparatively dormant in the body while gradually killing the kidneys. Once the disease reaches chronic renal failure the potential for deterioration is significantly raised. It can take months or years for the disease to progress until it reaches endstage chronic renal failure. However, once it reaches that point the individual will have to start dialysis or have a kidney transplant performed promptly. Two common risk factors for getting the disease are diabetes and high blood pressure. In the event that either are controlled the disease can still developed once it has been identified in renal tissue.
There are a few signs and symptoms that may suggest that an individual is affected however it is also possible to be asymptomatic.
Symptoms include:
Poor appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Tiredness
Fluid retention or Edema (swollen ankles)
Itchiness
Cramps
Restless legs