Conditions

RENAL DISEASES

Do I have a renal disease?

The kidneys are responsible for eliminating waste from the body. They do this by removing waste products from the blood, and water from the body, combining these waste products in the urine, which is collected in the bladder and then expelled. Renal diseases cause damage to the kidneys, making them unable to expel these waste products. Conditions such as kidney stones, urinary tract or bladder infections when left untreated can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD) or kidney failure, which may be life-threatening.

How does one develop renal disease or chronic kidney disease?

When left untreated, kidney stones or urinary bladder infections can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD) or kidney failure. Certain medications can harm the kidneys, but renal conditions and kidney diseases can also be caused by injuries to the kidney. Those with high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and a family history of these conditions have a higher risk for developing kidney disease. These individuals should thus be proactive in kidney health and see their physician for screening regularly. As a physician, Dr Roos also has a personal interest in nephrology and thus is very knowledgeable in kidney and bladder related conditions.

Treatment options

For bladder infections and kidney stones, treatment will depend on the severity of the case. Bladder infections may be treated with antibiotics and prevented by practising good self-care. Kidney stones, on the other hand, may be treated with certain medications, but in severe cases, larger stones may require extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or surgery to treat – in which case you may be referred to a specialist urologist.

For those with chronic kidney disease, Dr Roos may advise lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, treating anaemia and following a specialised diet low in waste products to prevent progression of the disease. In severe cases, your physician may refer you to a specialist nephrologist.