Kidney cancer, or renal cancer, is a type of cancer that starts in the kidneys and is responsible for filtering waste from the bloodstream. Risk factors include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and years on dialysis. Symptoms include blood in the urine, back pain, and unexplained weight loss. Diagnosis is made through physical exams, urine […]
Obesity, smoking, and high blood pressure are the top three risk factors for kidney cancer. Other factors include asbestos exposure, drug abuse, kidney transplantation, and dialysis due to kidney failure. There are many potential risk factors that can lead to kidney cancer. For example, obesity is one of the most common causes of kidney cancer. […]
Kidney trauma, caused by blunt force or penetrating injury, can result from car accidents, falls, physical attacks, or surgery. Treatment depends on the extent of the injury, with surgery often necessary for more serious cases. Kidney trauma is a traumatic injury to a kidney. This type of trauma is often diagnosed as the result of […]
Kidney stones are becoming more common, with over 5% of Americans developing them in their lifetime. Risk factors include being male, Caucasian, over 40, and having certain diseases or a family history. Avoiding certain foods and treating urinary tract infections can help reduce the risk. Medical researchers can’t always point to a definitive cause for […]
Wandering kidney, also known as nephroptosis, is a condition where the kidney shifts downwards in the pelvis area when standing up. Symptoms include nausea, chills, and sharp pains. Diagnosis requires a physical exam and intravenous urography. Treatment may include surgery to secure the kidney in a natural position. Also known as floating kidney or nephroptosis, […]
Kidney donation involves removing a functioning kidney from a donor and transplanting it into someone with end-stage renal failure. There are two types: cadaveric and living donor. Living donor kidneys perform better and allow recipients to skip long waiting lists. Family members are often asked to donate, but strangers can also donate. Donors undergo screening […]
Pregnancy increases the risk of kidney infection due to a spike in progesterone levels, which weakens the ureters and allows bacteria to grow. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, and pain in the lower back. Pregnant women with kidney infections are hospitalized and given antibiotics and fluids. All pregnant women are monitored for bacteria in their urine. […]
Acute kidney injury (AKI) occurs when the kidneys suddenly can’t filter toxins and waste fluids. There are three types of AKI: prerenal, intrinsic, and postrenal, each with different causes and treatments. Treatment focuses on replacing kidney function, and in most cases, the kidneys will recover after treatment. Acute kidney injury (AKI) occurs when one or […]
Kidney stones can be caused by diets high in fatty foods. Symptoms include body aches, changes in urination, and pain that gradually increases in intensity. If left untreated, kidney stones can lead to nausea, vomiting, and high fever, and even kidney damage. While kidney stones can occur due to physiological dysfunction, studies have suggested that […]
To prevent kidney stones, avoid high-oxalate foods such as dark leafy greens, chocolate, and tea, but maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and fluids. Moderate intake of low-oxalate fruits and vegetables is recommended, along with potassium and calcium-rich foods like yogurt and cheese. Consult a nutritionist for guidance. Foods to avoid with kidney stones […]
Moderate alcohol consumption does not lead to kidney stones, but binge eating and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of stone formation, especially in those with gout. Wine may reduce the chances of stone formation in middle-aged women, and moderate beer consumption may help dissolve kidney stones. Medical attention may be needed for very […]
The kidneys filter waste from the blood, but when they don’t function properly, waste can build up and cause complications. A renal diet, which varies based on severity and treatment, includes low-water and low-potassium fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. Protein intake may be limited for those not on dialysis, but increased for those on […]
Kidney stones can require surgery and come in four types: calcium, struvite, uric acid, and cystine. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding calcium-fortified juice, and limiting caffeine intake can help prevent them. Medication may be necessary for some types. Kidney stones are small to large stones, some the size of golf balls and some smaller than […]
A kidney scan uses a small amount of radioactive material to take pictures of the kidneys and determine their function. It is a safe and simple outpatient procedure that can help diagnose kidney disease or impaired function. Results are usually obtained during a follow-up visit with the doctor. A kidney scan is a test that […]
Steak and kidney pie is a traditional British dish made with diced beef steak, diced kidneys, vegetables, herbs, and gravy cooked in a crust. The recipe dates back to the early 1900s and has evolved over time with added ingredients such as Worcestershire sauce or mushrooms. The dish originated from basic beef pies and the […]
Kidney cancer survival rates depend on the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed, tumor size, age, and general health. Survival rates are highest when the cancer is localized within the kidney, and decrease as it spreads. Tumor size also plays a role, with smaller tumors having higher survival rates. Health problems can negatively affect […]
Life expectancy with kidney disease varies based on the stage at diagnosis, overall health, age, and treatment. Medical professionals stage kidney disease from one to five, with chronic disease causing permanent damage. Treatments include medication, diet, exercise, dialysis, and kidney transplants. Age, comorbidities, and access to treatment also impact life expectancy. Adherence to treatment is […]
Tea and kidney stones are linked due to the presence of oxalate in tea, which can exacerbate calcium stones but may prevent other types. Drinking black tea may prevent kidney stones, but those with a family history of calcium stones should avoid high-oxalate teas. Herbal teas, including those with lemon juice, may soothe and reduce […]
Kidney infections, or pyelonephritis, can range from mild to life-threatening. Symptoms include burning sensations when urinating, lower back pain, fever, and nausea. Poor hygiene, STDs, and kidney stones can cause infections. Treatment includes antibiotics and good hygiene practices. Severe cases may require hospitalization and surgery. A kidney infection is an acute disease that usually results […]
Medullary sponge kidney is a congenital kidney disease where cysts form in the medulla, blocking urine flow and leading to kidney stones and infections. Treatment is only necessary if conditions occur frequently, and may involve antibiotics or removal of kidney stones. Medullary sponge kidney is a kidney disease that is usually present at birth. This […]
