Having bad kidneys, typically referred to as chronic kidney disease (CKD), can have several consequences and complications. The severity of the condition and its impact on kidney function can vary, but some common consequences of CKD include:
Reduced Kidney Function: CKD leads to a gradual loss of kidney function over time. As the kidneys become less efficient in filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood, various health issues can arise.
Fluid Retention: As the kidneys struggle to remove excess fluids, individuals with CKD may experience swelling in the legs, ankles, and other parts of the body due to fluid retention (edema).
Electrolyte Imbalance: The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining the body's electrolyte balance. CKD can lead to abnormal levels of potassium, sodium, and other essential electrolytes, which can cause heart and muscle problems.
Anemia: The kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood cells. In CKD, the production of this hormone decreases, leading to anemia (a shortage of red blood cells) and resulting in fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
Bone Problems: CKD can disrupt the body's ability to maintain adequate levels of calcium and phosphorus, leading to bone loss and an increased risk of fractures.
Cardiovascular Complications: People with CKD have a higher risk of developing heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.
Regarding kidney stones, they can occur in individuals with both healthy and impaired kidneys. Kidney stones are small, hard mineral and salt deposits that can form in the kidneys and may eventually pass through the urinary tract. The risk of developing kidney stones is not directly related to the overall health of the kidneys, although certain conditions and lifestyle factors can increase the likelihood of stone formation.
However, for individuals with CKD, there might be additional challenges related to kidney stones. Reduced kidney function can affect the ability to eliminate waste and excess minerals from the body efficiently. This can lead to a higher risk of developing certain types of kidney stones, such as those made of calcium or uric acid.
If someone with CKD develops kidney stones, the stones might be challenging to pass due to reduced urine flow or other urinary tract issues caused by the underlying kidney disease. In such cases, medical intervention may be required to manage the kidney stones effectively.
It is essential for individuals with CKD to work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their condition and reduce the risk of complications, including kidney stone formation. This may involve dietary changes, hydration management, and medications to control factors that contribute to kidney stone development.