I was on dialysis 34 years ago then had a kidney transplant. I need a new kidney now and will start dialysis soon. Has it changed in 34 years? I had a difficult time on dialysis. Am I justified in being terrified of dialysis again since I had such a horrid experience with it in the past?

Dialysis is a way to stay alive until an new kidney is available for transplantation. Dialysis is much more efficient and safe than it was 34 years ago, but it remains a treatment that requires time and adherence to medication and diet restrictions.  I suggest that you attend educational classes about dialysis and transplantation in your area.  Your nephrologist should be able to suggest some appropriate educational opportunities.  You can also explore our web site about dialysis and transplantation.

 

Hello sir. My father is suffering a possible acute renal failure. His bladder is emptied of urine and his renal functions are paused. I want to know how to deal with this situation?

I am unable to make a specific diagnosis based on the information that you present.  You should discuss your concerns with the physicians who are caring for your father. You need further information about the causes of his kidney disease and plans for treatment.  Once a specific diagnosis is made, this leads to proper treatment of his kidney disease.

 

Dr. I get cramps at night and I was told that taking Magnesium vitamins could help, specifically Magnesium Glycinate vitamins. Would these vitamins hurt or help my kidneys?

Magnesium can accumulate in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and I would not advocate use of magnesium supplements unless your physician approves the use and you monitor your blood levels of magnesium.  Hence, I would check with your physician and make sure this does not cause concern on his or her part.

 

Hello Doc, My son is 14 years old and has been diagnosed with CKD. The systems did not present themselves until late stage. His creatinine level is 4.3 and he has hypertension because of this. Is there anyway to slow down this progression because he still has 20 to 25% usage and don’t need dialysis at this point. In addition, he plays football and basketball and will he still be able to play the sports he loves? Also, are you aware of the 5 super foods that could delay the effects of the kidney disease.

I cannot make a specific diagnosis based on the information that you present.  I believe the first thing that needs to happen is to have a specific diagnosis as to the cause of the chronic kidney disease (CKD).  This may involve performing a kidney biopsy in order to get a specific diagnosis.  I am unable to comment about his physical activity until we know what is causing his kidney disease.  I am unfamiliar with 5 superfoods that you mention.

I had diagnosed my urine last month and the result showed that the urine had 3 positives (pro +++). Also, around 5 months ago I tested my kidney and it had some very small stones. Doctors only advised to take more water; avoid sitting long time; and take some medicine. I feel much better then but recently, I feel pain below my navel and sometimes, I can’t sit well. How do you think of this pain? Could you please advise me what I should do? If my kidney has a problem (failure), what is your advice to treat or prevent it?

I am unable to provide a specific diagnosis based on the information that you present.  You need further testing including a serum creatinine and further testing on the urine to quantify the amount of protein in your urine.  I suggest that you see your physician for further examination.

 

Hello, my father who is 59 years old is suffering from mild fever and loose stool (diarrhea type). He had his kidney transplant 1 year ago, his creatinine level is 1.5 mg/dl now. What should he eat to treat the fever and diarrhea?

I am unable to give medical advice without performing a complete history and physical examination.  I recommend that your father be evaluated by his physician.  There are always concerns when someone has a kidney transplant and is taking immunosuppressive medications and this should be seen by his physician and evaluated.

 

I have a GFR of 47 and a creatinine of 1.28. Should I see a kidney specialist as well as my primary care doctor? I do not have diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease. I do have some odd autoimmune diseases. I am 55 years old.

Most primary care physicians (PCP’s) are capable to caring for early Stage 3 chronic kidney disease (CKD).  I do recommend that you also have urine testing for blood, protein and infection to see if there are other findings associated with your kidney disease.  I typically recommend referral to a nephrologist when the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is less than 30 milliliters per minute per 1.73 meters squared.  If your PCP is concern, then referral to a nephrologist may be appropriate and can be arranged by your PCP.

 

Last December, my creative creatinine level was 2.85. In July it was 4.01! I’m really scared. My Nephrologist said my nephropathy is getting worse. That is an understatement. I had a biopsy a year ago. The diagnosis was stage 4 IgA. Been on a self directed strict diet, restricting my intake of protein, and foods high in salt, and phosphorous. Was not overweight, but lost 28 lbs. Am always tired, but walk about 30 minutes every other day. I’m 41 year old Filippine female. My husband is a medical professional and feels that maybe now is the time to take a more aggressive approach. I’ve been taking 9,000 units of fish oil for over a year. Cyclophosamide along with corticosteroids and a removal of my tonsils should put me in remission.

I am not able to give medical advice without performing a complete history and physical examination.  It is best for you to consult with your nephrologist in the Philippines.    IgA nephropathy is a notoriously difficult disease to treat.

 

My creatinine level is 1.8. What does it mean and treatment?

An elevated creatinine can mean either acute or chronic kidney disease (CKD). I am unable to make any other specific diagnosis based on the information that you present.  I suggest that you contact your physician and discuss this result with your physician.

 

 

Can acute kidney failure cause thyroid problems?

There is no direct connection from kidney disease and thyroid disease.  Both can and do occur in the same patient.  Thyroid illness, diabetes and kidney disease are all commonly seen together but kidney disease does not cause diabetes or thyroid illness.  Diabetes certainly does cause kidney disease, but I am not aware of any thyroid illness that directly causes kidney disease.